Choi Young-jae
A singer-songwriter whose smooth vocals and heartfelt compositions anchor the global pop sensation Got7, shaping their signature sound.
Born 1996 (age 30)·South Korean singer·Birthday: September 17·Millennials
Biography
Born in 1996, Choi Young-jae grew up in Mokpo, South Korea, with a dream of music that led him to the competitive world of trainee life. He debuted in 2014 as the main vocalist of Got7, a group that would become a powerhouse of K-pop, known for its intricate performances and international reach. Youngjae's voice, often described as warm and clear, became a cornerstone of the group's identity. Beyond group activities, he has carved a solo path, releasing his own music that leans into R&B and balladry, showcasing his songwriting and a more personal artistic vision. His work extends to acting and variety appearances, revealing a playful personality that endears him to fans. Youngjae represents a modern K-pop artist: a skilled performer within a hit-making machine who is also developing a distinct, individual voice in the industry.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Choi was born in 1996, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Choi Was Born
The biggest hits of 1996
#1 Movie
Independence Day
Best Picture
The English Patient
#1 TV Show
ER
Choi's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1996Born
Dolly the sheep cloned
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $99,700Min wage: $4.75/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Macarena" — Los del RioBest Picture: The English Patient
2001Started school
September 11 attacks transform the world
Gas: $1.46/galHome: $126,400Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Hanging by a Moment" — LifehouseBest Picture: A Beautiful Mind
2009Became a teenager
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2012Could drive
Curiosity rover lands on Mars; Sandy Hook shooting
Gas: $3.64/galHome: $143,200Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Somebody That I Used to Know" — GotyeBest Picture: Argo
2014Could vote
Russia annexes Crimea; Ebola outbreak in West Africa
Gas: $3.37/galHome: $160,700Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Happy" — Pharrell WilliamsBest Picture: Birdman
2017Turned 21
#MeToo movement; solar eclipse crosses the US
Gas: $2.42/galHome: $195,000Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Donald Trump"Shape of You" — Ed SheeranBest Picture: The Shape of Water
2026Turned 30
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Debuted as the main vocalist of Got7, a group that achieved multiple number-one albums on South Korea's Gaon Chart.
- Released his first solo EP, 'Colors from Ars', in 2021, showcasing his personal songwriting and production skills.
- Composed and wrote songs for Got7's discography, including tracks on their 'Eyes On You' and 'Present: YOU' albums.
- Acted in the web drama 'So Not Worth It' (2021), expanding his career into television.
Did You Know?
He is a licensed barista and has expressed a serious interest in coffee culture.
Before his debut, he was a child actor and appeared in a television commercial.
His English name is Arthur, a fact he has shared with international fans.
He studied Practical Music at Dong-ah Institute of Media and Arts.
“I want to be a singer who can give comfort and happiness to people through my music.”
