5 things to know about Kim Mingyu, lead rapper of K-pop band Seventeen

Kim Mingyu, the lead rapper of Seventeen, celebrated his 23rd birthday (24th in Korean tradition) on April 6. He is the face of the group beloved by fans around the world.

Mingyu proves that he’s a multifaceted artist for his soulful lyric writing and acting cameos. Here are five things you need to know about the tallest member of Pledis Entertainment’s group.

1. He appeared on NU’EST’s and Hello Venus’ MVs

Joining the show in his second year of middle school, Mingyu trained for four years alongside NU’EST members who got to debut ahead of Seventeen. He appeared in the group’s music video for their debut song, Face, as the member of an opposing group who is his now leader, S. Coups. He also made a cameo on Hello Venus’ Venus music video in 2012.

2. He knows how to play bass guitar

It is no surprise to fans that Seventeen is a highly skilled group when it comes to music. Some members are known to have played the drums, the piano and the clarinet. Mingyu is no stranger to the world of instruments as he can play the bass guitar.

What’s not to love about a guy who can rap, look charismatic on stage, and play the bass? He has since shown his guitar skills during the 2017 KBS Song Festival.

3. He is passionate about the arts

Mingyu is known to share his passion for art – on social media or at fan events. His love for the arts was the reason for opening his own Instagram account, alongside fellow member The8, where he can fully express his amazing artistry.

He is the main photographer for the group, and takes breathtaking pictures of the band’s members that he shares online. He also took part in Seventeen’s exhibit “17’s Cut”, part of their third anniversary celebration, where his painting called Growing Pains was showcased. He mentioned before that it was the very first painting that he had ever worked on.

4. He is called Housewife Mingyu by fans