Kim Jeong-hoon, South Korean singer and actor

Kim Jeong-hoon, born on January 20, 1980, is a highly recognized South Korean artist widely known by his stage name, John Hoon. His illustrious career seamlessly bridges the realms of music and acting, establishing him as a versatile and enduring figure in the competitive entertainment industry of South Korea and beyond.

He first captivated audiences and rose to significant prominence as a vital member of the popular South Korean male duo, UN, an acronym for "United N-generation." The duo made their official debut in 2000 with the release of their compelling single "Voice Mail," which was featured on their successful debut album, "United N-generation." UN quickly distinguished themselves with their unique blend of harmonious pop ballads and R&B sounds, garnering a strong fanbase and achieving considerable commercial success throughout their five-year tenure in the highly dynamic K-pop landscape, before the group officially disbanded in 2005.

Following the conclusion of UN's activities, Kim Jeong-hoon embarked on a strategic and highly successful pivot to acting, a move that dramatically propelled his fame to unprecedented new heights. His breakthrough role came in the immensely popular 2006 MBC romantic comedy series, Princess Hours (also widely known as Goong or 궁). This critically acclaimed and commercially successful K-drama, a delightful adaptation of Park So-hee's beloved manhwa series, captivated audiences not only in South Korea but also across Asia, becoming a pivotal component of the burgeoning Hallyu wave. Kim Jeong-hoon's nuanced portrayal of the melancholic yet charming Prince Lee Yul, the second male lead and the Emperor's cousin, garnered significant attention and widespread praise, firmly establishing his credentials as a compelling actor and cementing his widespread recognition far beyond his musical beginnings.

Since his breakout role in Princess Hours, John Hoon has maintained a dynamic and active presence in the entertainment world. He successfully launched a solo singing career, finding a particularly strong and devoted following in the Japanese music market where he released numerous albums and singles. Concurrently, he has continued to expand his acting repertoire, taking on diverse roles in various television dramas and films, consistently showcasing his enduring talent, adaptability, and broad appeal across different genres and entertainment platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kim Jeong-hoon (John Hoon)

When was Kim Jeong-hoon born?

Kim Jeong-hoon was born on January 20, 1980.

What K-pop group was John Hoon a member of?

He was a member of the South Korean male duo UN (United N-generation).

What was UN's debut song?

UN debuted with the single "Voice Mail" in 2000.

What drama significantly boosted Kim Jeong-hoon's acting career?

His acting career received a major boost from his role in the highly popular 2006 MBC drama Princess Hours (also known as Goong).

What character did Kim Jeong-hoon play in Princess Hours?

In Princess Hours, he played the role of Prince Lee Yul, the second male lead.