In brief
K-pop group Just B’s member Bain, in a groundbreaking move, openly declared his pride in being part of the LGBT community during a concert in Los Angeles, positioning him among the few K-pop artists to do so.
In a heartfelt moment, the 23-year-old, whose real name is Song Byeong-hee, addressed the audience, saying, “To anyone out there who's part of the LGBT community, or still figuring it out - this is for you guys.” His statement was met with enthusiastic cheers, and he later celebrated this milestone with a rendition of Lady Gaga's "Born This Way." His announcement was also met with emotional support from bandmates, particularly Siwoo, who expressed deep admiration for Bain’s bravery. Fans responded passionately on social media, showering Bain with love and support for his authenticity.Just B, which debuted in 2021, has been gaining popularity with multiple EPs and singles. Despite the growing acceptance of LGBT individuals worldwide, coming out remains a challenging endeavor in South Korea's entertainment industry, where such discussions are often taboo. Homosexuality is not illegal but remains unrecognized socially and legally, leading to widespread discrimination, as noted in a 2022 Human Rights Watch report. Previous K-pop star disclosures, such as Lara from Katseye and Jiae from Wassup, highlight gradually shifting perceptions within the industry, yet Bain’s announcement marks a significant step forward.With Bain’s powerful message resonating with fans globally, his courage could inspire more openness and acceptance within the K-pop realm and beyond.
