During a vibrant concert in Los Angeles, K-pop sensation Bain captivated thousands with an unexpected announcement: “I’m [expletive] proud to be part of the LGBTQ community!” Dressed in a striking fur coat and sunglasses, the 24-year-old’s heartfelt revelation was met with roaring applause as he launched into Lady Gaga’s anthem, “Born This Way.”
Bain, whose real name is Song Byeonghee, is recognized for his courageous move in a conservative South Korea where public acknowledgment of one’s sexuality can be controversial. Few K-pop artists have publicly identified as gay, making his declaration a notable milestone in the industry.
Having realized his sexual orientation at 12, Bain kept his true self hidden during his ascent in the K-pop world, initially fearing societal rejection. “I thought I had no choice,” he shared, recalling a time when he felt isolated, without any role models who were openly gay.
After years of internal struggle, Bain confided in his mother about his identity. Although her reaction was initially difficult, she ultimately expressed love and support, encouraging him to be true to himself. This year, with backing from his band and team, he decided to come out on stage during their world tour finale, quickly becoming a significant figure within the K-pop and LGBTQ communities.
Reflecting on the journey, Bain notes a newfound confidence in his identity, hoping that one day being gay will simply be seen as part of who he is, rather than a defining characteristic.
Yet, despite progress in attitudes toward LGBTQ acceptance in South Korea, the journey remains fraught with challenges, as Bain continues to break barriers in the industry.
Source: www.bbc.com
