Kim Tae-hyung

Learn about Kim Tae-hyung (stage name V) — South Korean singer, songwriter, actor, and member of BTS (born December 30, 1995). Explore his early life, musical career, artistry, and legacy.

Introduction

Kim Tae-hyung, better known by his stage name V (뷔), is a South Korean vocalist, songwriter, and actor, widely celebrated as one of the prominent members of the global K-pop phenomenon BTS. Since his debut in 2013, V has distinguished himself through his rich baritone voice, artistic sensibility, solo music projects, and compelling visual presence. His role has expanded beyond group activities into solo artistry, acting, and influencing pop culture.

Early Life & Education

• V was born on December 30, 1995 in Daegu, South Korea.

• He grew up in Geochang County, where he spent much of his youth.

• He is the eldest child in his family, with at least one younger sister and a younger brother.

• During his youth, he developed an early interest in music. His father supported him by letting him take saxophone lessons in middle school, which helped him explore musical expression.

• For high school, he attended Korean Arts High School, graduating in 2014.

• He later enrolled at Global Cyber University majoring in Broadcasting and Entertainment, graduating in August 2020.

• Afterward, he also pursued further studies (e.g. in business / media) via cyber/hybrid universities.

Musical Career & Major Works

Debut with BTS & Role in the Group

• In 2013, V made his debut as a member of BTS under Big Hit Entertainment (now under HYBE).

• His roles in BTS include being one of the vocalists, a visual (i.e. a contributing member to the group’s image), and a performer on stage.

• Over time, he also contributed to songwriting and composition within BTS, e.g. co-writing “Hold Me Tight”, and providing melody ideas for tracks like “Run”.

• Within BTS albums, V has had solo tracks released under the group’s name:

  • “Stigma” (2016)

  • “Singularity” (2018)

  • “Inner Child” (2020)

Solo / Independent Projects

• Beyond group work, V has gradually expanded into solo and semi-solo projects:

  • In 2019, he released an independently composed song, “Scenery”, which he also photographed the cover for.

  • Also in 2019, he released “Winter Bear”, a self-written and self-produced track.

  • He contributed to original soundtrack (OST) songs, e.g. “Sweet Night” (for the drama Itaewon Class) in 2020.

  • He also released holiday tracks such as “Snow Flower” and “Christmas Tree” in subsequent years.

  • In 2023, V made his official solo debut, releasing singles “Love Me Again” and “Rainy Days”.

  • On September 8, 2023, he released his debut solo album Layover, including the track “Slow Dancing”.

Acting & Other Work

• V also ventured into acting. In 2016, he appeared in the historical drama Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, using his real name (Kim Tae-hyung).

• For Hwarang, he contributed a song to its soundtrack: “It’s Definitely You”.

• He has also appeared in reality / variety shows more recently, participated in endorsements, and been active in media presence outside of music.

Artistry & Style

• V is known for a baritone vocal tone, often praised for its depth and expressiveness.

• His stylistic range spans genres such as K-pop, R&B, neo-soul, indie pop, and jazz influences.

• Critics highlight his capacity to convey emotion, to shift from soft, introspective moods to more powerful delivery depending on the song.

• On stage, V is often noted for his visual charisma, expressive performance, and the ability to connect through both voice and presence.

• He has also shown interest in visual arts, photography, and aesthetics—e.g. photographing his own covers, contributing to the visual side of his music.

Impact & Recognition

• In 2018, V and his BTS bandmates were awarded the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit by the President of South Korea, for their contributions to promoting Korean culture globally.

• His solo works and group songs have charted highly domestically and internationally.

• He has become a cultural icon—not only as a musician but as an influencer in fashion, visuals, and youth culture.

• Among fans and in fan communities, V coined the phrase “I Purple You” (in November 2016) as a message of lasting trust and love. “Purple” has since become symbolic among BTS fans.

Personal Life & Recent Developments

• As per South Korean law, men are required to perform military service. V began his enlistment in December 2023.

• After completing training, he was assigned to a unit, and he was discharged on June 10, 2025.

• During his enlistment, V has maintained contact with fans, shared glimpses of his life, and after discharge, has been welcomed back with enthusiasm by the BTS fan community (ARMY).

Key Quotes & Thoughts

Because V is primarily a musician and performer rather than a public intellectual or philosopher, he is less often quoted for philosophical maxims. However, here are some meaningful remarks and mottos associated with him:

• “I Purple You” — A phrase V coined in 2016 during a fan meeting, meaning “I will trust and love you for a long time.” This phrase has become emblematic of the bond between BTS and their fans.

• In interviews and public speeches, he often expresses gratitude to fans for their support, emphasizes sincerity in his artistry, and the desire to create authentic music.

• He sometimes reflects on the importance of growth, self-expression, and emotional honesty through music.

Lessons & Significance

1. Taking creative ownership — V’s shift from group roles to releasing self-composed and self-produced songs (e.g. Scenery, Winter Bear) shows the value of artistic agency.

2. Versatility matters — He balances group synergy with solo exploration, and music with visual and acting facets.

3. Connection through authenticity — Fans resonate not just with polished performance, but with vulnerability, honesty, and emotional resonance.

4. Cultural impact beyond music — As part of BTS, V participates in diplomacy, cultural promotion, and global fandom.

5. Navigating transitions — His journey through military service, solo debut, and maintaining momentum shows resilience in a career with evolving phases.

Conclusion

Kim Tae-hyung (V) stands as a compelling figure in contemporary music: a vocalist with a signature voice, an artist exploring his own path, and part of a cultural phenomenon reshaping how global pop operates. His story continues to unfold—from BTS group endeavors to solo projects, from artistic risks to staging comebacks after military service. His legacy lies not just in hit songs, but in the emotional connection he forms with millions.