Ken (South Korean singer)
With a husky, soul-powered voice, Ken became the emotional anchor of VIXX, delivering vocal performances that defined the group's dramatic sound.
Born 1992 (age 34)·South Korean singer·Birthday: April 6·Millennials
Biography
Lee Jae-hwan, known as Ken, stepped into the spotlight in 2012 as a main vocalist of VIXX, a group built on theatrical concepts and precise execution. His voice, distinguished by its unique rasp and formidable power, was the instrument that sold every fantasy, from Gothic romance to futuristic angst. He didn't just hit high notes; he infused them with a raw, aching emotion that became a signature of the group's music. While VIXX carved its path, Ken simultaneously nurtured a parallel career on stage, making his musical theatre debut in 2014. This dual pursuit honed his technical control and expressive depth, which he fed back into his idol work. After VIXX's initial group activities slowed, his focus shifted decisively toward acting and solo music, where he continues to explore the full range of his vocal and dramatic talents, proving himself an artist built for longevity beyond the idol system.
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.
Ken was born in 1992, 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 Ken Was Born
The biggest hits of 1992
#1 Movie
Aladdin
Best Picture
Unforgiven
#1 TV Show
60 Minutes
Ken's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1992Born
LA riots after Rodney King verdict
Gas: $1.13/galHome: $84,300Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: George H.W. Bush"End of the Road" — Boyz II MenBest Picture: Unforgiven
1997Started school
Princess Diana dies in Paris car crash; Harry Potter published
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $104,100Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Candle in the Wind 1997" — Elton JohnBest Picture: Titanic
2005Became a teenager
Hurricane Katrina devastates New Orleans; YouTube launches
Gas: $2.30/galHome: $167,500Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"We Belong Together" — Mariah CareyBest Picture: Crash
2008Could drive
Barack Obama elected first Black US president; financial crisis
Gas: $3.27/galHome: $153,100Min wage: $6.55/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Low" — Flo RidaBest Picture: Slumdog Millionaire
2010Could vote
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
2013Turned 21
Edward Snowden reveals NSA surveillance programs
Gas: $3.53/galHome: $152,800Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Thrift Shop" — Macklemore & Ryan LewisBest Picture: 12 Years a Slave
2022Turned 30
Russia invades Ukraine; Queen Elizabeth II dies
Gas: $3.97/galHome: $348,700Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Joe Biden"As It Was" — Harry StylesBest Picture: Everything Everywhere All at Once
2026Age 34 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Served as the main vocalist of VIXX, a group known for its elaborate and concept-driven music and performances.
- Made his musical theatre debut in 2014 in "Boarding House No. 24" and has since starred in several major productions.
- Released his first solo mini-album, "Greeting," in 2022, showcasing his personal musical color.
- Won the "Best Actor in a Musical" award at the 2021 Korea Musical Awards for his role in "The Brothers Karamazov."
Did You Know?
He is a graduate of Howon University, majoring in Practical Music.
Ken is known for his impressive impersonations of other singers.
He served as a fixed panel member on the JTBC singing competition show "Sing Again."
He originally auditioned for Jellyfish Entertainment with a rock song.
“My voice is my color; I use it to paint the story of the song.”
