Kai (entertainer, born 1994)
A principal dancer of K-pop whose magnetic stage presence and solo artistry expanded the language of performance in the genre.
Born 1994 (age 32)·South Korean singer·Birthday: January 14·Millennials
Biography
As Kai of EXO, Kim Jong-in didn't just perform songs; he authored visual spectacles. From the group's 2012 debut, his background in ballet and jazz transformed K-pop choreography, introducing a fluidity and expressive depth that became his signature. While EXO scaled global heights, Kai cultivated an aura of artistic seriousness, often described as a 'performance genius' within the industry. His decision to launch a solo career in 2020 was a revelation, allowing him to fully synthesize his talents. His solo work, characterized by sensual R&B and cinematic music videos, presented a more intimate and curated persona. Beyond the stage, his ventures into acting and fashion as a global ambassador demonstrate a multifaceted star who treats every public appearance as a meticulously crafted piece of performance art.
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.
Kai was born in 1994, 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 Kai Was Born
The biggest hits of 1994
#1 Movie
The Lion King
Best Picture
Forrest Gump
#1 TV Show
Seinfeld
Kai's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1994Born
Nelson Mandela elected president of South Africa
Gas: $1.11/galHome: $90,400Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"The Sign" — Ace of BaseBest Picture: Forrest Gump
1999Started school
Columbine shooting; Y2K panic builds
Gas: $1.17/galHome: $113,900Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Believe" — CherBest Picture: American Beauty
2007Became a teenager
iPhone released; Great Recession begins
Gas: $2.80/galHome: $172,600Min wage: $5.85/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Irreplaceable" — BeyonceBest Picture: No Country for Old Men
2010Could drive
Deepwater Horizon oil spill; iPad launched
Gas: $2.79/galHome: $147,800Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Tik Tok" — KeshaBest Picture: The King's Speech
2012Could vote
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
2015Turned 21
Paris climate agreement; same-sex marriage legalized in the US
Gas: $2.43/galHome: $171,900Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Uptown Funk" — Mark Ronson ft. Bruno MarsBest Picture: Spotlight
2024Turned 30
AI reshapes industries; Paris Olympics
Gas: $3.31/galHome: $372,000Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Joe Biden"Espresso" — Sabrina CarpenterBest Picture: Anora
2026Age 32 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Debuted as a main dancer and vocalist in EXO, one of South Korea's best-selling boy bands.
- Released his debut solo EP 'Kai' in 2020, showcasing his distinct R&B and performance style.
- Served as a member of the supergroup SuperM, formed by SM Entertainment and Capitol Records for the global market.
Did You Know?
He was the last member to join EXO prior to their debut, added for his exceptional dancing skills.
He is a published photographer, with his work featured in exhibitions.
He is a global brand ambassador for the luxury fashion house Gucci.
“I want to be remembered as an artist who gave great performances.”
