MONSTA X was formed in 2015 through the Korean survival program ‘NO. MERCY’ and debuted with their mini-album ‘TRESPASS’ on May 14. They are signed under STARSHIP Entertainment and are actively active in Korea and Japan.
Originally formed as a seven-member group, one member left in October 2019, and they are currently active as a six-member group. The group name “MONSTA X” combines a French element meaning “my star” and “X” representing the “unknown,” symbolizing “monsters of the K-POP world.”
Furthermore, the official fan club is named “MONBEBE,” which means “my baby” in French. The Japanese fan club is known as “MONBEBE JAPAN.”
This time, we will introduce the member profiles of MONSTA X.
1. Shownu
- Real Name: Sohn Hyun-woo (손현우)
- Date of Birth: June 18, 1992
- Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
- Height: 181cm
- Traits:
Shownu is the leader and oldest member of MONSTA X, leading the group with a cool and reserved demeanor while holding a strong sense of responsibility. He has often been described as the “fatherly” figure in the group.
Previously, Shownu was a trainee at JYP Entertainment, working alongside other popular idols like 2PM, TWICE, and NiziU.
He was also an accomplished swimmer in his youth, having won awards in competitions. However, his teammates jokingly revealed that he isn’t great at land sports and moves slowly like a turtle.
He enlisted for military service in July 2021 and completed his service as a social service worker in April 2023, becoming the first member to finish his military duty.
2. Minhyuk
- Real Name: Lee Min-hyuk (이민혁)
- Date of Birth: November 3, 1993
- Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
- Height: 179cm
- Traits:
Before debut, Minhyuk moved between several agencies due to lack of experience and almost missed out on debuting. Despite being the last member chosen for MONSTA X, he has proven his worth with impressive performances and his bright personality.
He quickly befriended others and took an interest in learning Japanese after the group’s debut in Japan. Minhyuk enjoys Japanese manga like ‘One Piece’ and ‘Haikyuu’ and learned Japanese by reading them, even showcasing his skills to the fans.
3. Kihyun
- Real Name: Yoo Ki-hyun (유기현)
- Date of Birth: November 22, 1993
- Hometown: Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
- Height: 174.8cm
- Traits:
Kihyun is known for his outstanding vocal ability, which has earned him high praise within MONSTA X. Before debut, he was considered one of the most talented vocalists in the agency. His powerful and clear voice makes him a central figure in the group.
Additionally, Kihyun enjoys cooking and cleaning, often calling on members to tidy up. He is affectionately referred to as the “motherly” figure in the group. However, he was also voted the “least wanted member to date” in a fun poll.
4. Hyungwon
- Real Name: Chae Hyung-won (최형원)
- Date of Birth: January 15, 1994
- Hometown: Gwangju, South Korea
- Height: 183cm
- Traits:
Hyungwon joined MONSTA X after training for three years and participating in the survival show ‘NO.MERCY.’ Known for his handsome appearance, he is often called “manhwa-nam,” meaning a guy who looks like he came out of a comic. Despite his good looks, he is loved for his quirky and playful nature.
Hyungwon is also the only member of MONSTA X to have pursued an acting career and done modeling. His versatile talents include DJing.
5. Jooheon
- Real Name: Lee Joo-heon (이주헌)
- Date of Birth: January 15, 1994
- Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
- Height: 177cm
- Traits:
Jooheon is known for his exceptional rapping ability, making him one of the most skilled rappers in K-pop. His stage presence and energy often steal the show. He has also earned praise for his comedic nature and loving personality.
He is also a member of MONSTA X’s subunit, Monsta X’s Unit 2, which focuses on music production.
6. I.M
- Real Name: Lim Chang-kyun (임창균)
- Date of Birth: January 26, 1996
- Hometown: Daegu, South Korea
- Height: 175.5cm
- Traits:
I.M is the youngest member of MONSTA X, also known as the “maknae.” He is the lead rapper of the group and known for his deep, charismatic voice. Despite his tough persona on stage, he is often described as the quiet and shy type offstage, but he opens up to the members and fans.
He has also shown a passion for songwriting and producing music, especially in his solo work. He has been praised for his artistic sense and versatility in music.
