During a recent concert in Los Angeles, K-pop sensation Bain of the boyband Just B, took the bold step of coming out to his fans. In front of a jubilant audience, the 24-year-old performer, clad in a luxurious fur coat, proclaimed, "I’m [expletive] proud to be part of the LGBTQ community," before launching into Lady Gaga's anthem "Born This Way."
This electrifying moment marked a historic advancement in the often-conservative world of South Korean entertainment, where openly acknowledging one's sexuality can invite backlash. Bain, whose real name is Song Byeonghee, explained to BBC in an interview following the event that while he faced significant apprehension about the potential fallout and loss of fans, he ultimately decided that societal attitudes towards LGBTQ individuals are evolving.
Born and raised in South Korea, Bain reflected on the isolation he felt during his early teenage years when he first recognized his sexual orientation. The pressures of a society still deeply rooted in traditional values made it difficult for him to embrace his identity, leading him to suppress his true self for years. The gradual acceptance of LGBTQ issues in South Korea, evidenced by a 44% increase in acceptance from 2002 to 2019 according to Pew, gives him hope for broader acceptance.
Bain’s coming out comes at a time when only a select few K-pop stars have publicly identified as LGBTQ, with Hong Seok-Cheon paving the way in 2000 as the first openly gay celebrity in South Korea. The path towards acceptance remains rocky. Bain shared that the initial reaction from his mother was mixed, revealing her concerns over societal backlash but ultimately offering her unwavering love and support.
Despite existing challenges, Bain's announcement has been met with overwhelming positivity, particularly from fans and the LGBTQ community. Many have expressed their gratitude, stating that his revelation brings hope and comfort to those struggling with their own identities. Bain himself has embraced this newfound confidence, aiming for a future where his identity will simply be a part of who he is, not a focal point of public intrigue.
While the entertainment industry may still navigate through pervasive traditional norms and expectations, Bain believes his decision to be open about his sexuality will encourage others to find their voice as well. “If just one person in K-pop feels inspired by my story, then it’s all worth it," he remarked.
As K-pop continues to gain global influence, the conversations surrounding representation and acceptance also grow. Bain’s journey symbolizes a significant moment for LGBTQ representation in one of the world's most vibrant music scenes, revealing the complexities of personal identity within the framework of formidable industry norms.
