Just B’s Bain is 1st K-pop idol in a boy group to come out as gay

Just B member Bain made history this week by becoming the first K-pop idol in a boy group to publicly come out as gay during the group’s “Just Odd” concert in Los Angeles on Tuesday.

Bain, whose real name is Song Byeong-hee, paused mid-show at The Vermont Hollywood to make his announcement. “I am proud to be a part of the LGBTQ community,” he declared to loud cheers from the audience, adding that he identifies as “a gay person.” He also credited Lady Gaga for showing him that “being different is beautiful,” leading to a performance of “Born This Way.” He later took to Instagram to share the news.

Fellow Just B member Siwoo shared a supportive message through the fan platform Fromm on Thursday. “Byunghee (Bain) was amazing. Applause for his courage. I was watching backstage, and I teared up. Knowing how hard and painful this must’ve been, it hit me even harder,” Siwoo noted.

Bain’s announcement represents a watershed moment in K-pop, an industry known for strict control over artists’ personal lives. Just B’s label, BLUEDOT Entertainment, issued the following response: “Since this pertains to Bain’s personal life and sexual identity, it is difficult for us to provide a separate statement.”

Bain joins a small group of openly LGBTQ+ K-pop idols, including Jiae (formerly of Wassup), who came out as bisexual in 2020, and Lara of Katseye, who came out as a “fruitcake” last month. These announcements are significant given South Korea’s conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues. While homosexuality is not illegal in the country, it remains largely taboo, with same-sex marriage not legally recognized.

Fans have rallied behind Bain using the hashtag #ProudofBain, showing support for his decision that challenges industry norms. “Song Byeonghee I hope you know just how loved and iconic you are. I am so proud of you and I’m honored to be on this journey with you,” one fan wrote.