CHEN

Kim Jong-dae, better known by his stage name Chen, is a celebrated South Korean singer and songwriter born on September 21, 1992, in Siheung, Gyeonggi Province. He rose to fame as the main vocalist of the globally popular K-pop group EXO, as well as its sub-units EXO-M and EXO-CBX. Chen is widely recognized for his powerful, emotive vocals, which have made him one of EXO’s standout members. His ability to convey deep emotions through his voice has earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

Chen’s musical journey began when he was discovered by SM Entertainment in 2011. He debuted as a member of EXO in 2012 and quickly made a name for himself with his versatile singing style, capable of tackling a wide range of genres from pop to ballads. Alongside his work with EXO, Chen has contributed memorable songs to several television drama soundtracks, including “The Best Luck” for It’s Okay, That’s Love and “Everytime” for Descendants of the Sun. His solo debut came in 2019 with the mini-album April, and a Flower, where he showcased his personal musical identity and emotional depth.

Beyond his music career, Chen pursued higher education at Hanyang Cyber University, earning an MBA in Advertising and Media. He is also known for his kind and approachable personality, often described as warm, humble, and humorous by both fans and peers.

In 2020, Chen made headlines with his personal life, announcing his marriage and the upcoming birth of his first child. After completing his mandatory military service in 2022, he made a triumphant return to music with his third solo album, Last Scene. This album marked a period of introspection and growth, reflecting his evolving artistry and deep commitment to his fans.