Bae Jae-wook (Benji)

Discover the inspiring journey of Bae Jae-wook (Benji), former B.I.G member, Juilliard-trained violinist, and rising solo artist in the K-pop industry.

Bae Jae-wook (Benji) B.I.G
B.I.G Bae Jae-wook aka Benji - From Juilliard Prodigy to K-pop Star

Who is Bae Jae-wook (Benji) ?

Bae Jae-wook (배제욱), known by his stage name Benji (벤지), is a Korean-American singer, composer, MC, and DJ. Born on May 3, 1992, in Indiana, USA, and raised in Seattle, Washington, Benji is best known as the former main vocalist and visual of the K-pop boy group B.I.G (Boys In Groove).

Bae Jae-wook (Benji) - Biodata

Bae Jae-wook (Benji) biodata table including name, birth, MBTI, hobbies and more.
Full Real Name Bae Jae-wook
Name in Hangul 배재욱
Stage Name Benji
Date of Birth May 3, 1992
Place of Birth Indiana, USA
Occupation Singer, Composer, MC, DJ
Gender Male
Blood Type B
Height 183 cm
MBTI ENFP
Nationality Korean-American
Hobbies Cooking, Writing Lyrics, Playing the Violin, Yoyo

Bae Jae-wook (Benji) - Biography

Biography of Bae Jae-wook (Benji), a Korean-American artist and former member of K-pop group B.I.G.

Early Life

Bae Jae-wook, better known by his stage name Benji, was born on May 3, 1992, in Indiana, United States, and raised in Seattle, Washington. A gifted violinist from an early age, he began playing at the age of four. His passion and talent led him to study at world-renowned institutions, including the Juilliard School, the Cleveland Institute of Music, and the Heifetz International Music Institute.

Transition to Korea and Debut

In 2011, Benji moved to South Korea to pursue a career in the music industry. After three years of intensive training, he debuted as the main vocalist and visual of the boy group B.I.G (Boys In Groove) in July 2014 under GH Entertainment. The group quickly made a name for itself with their energetic performances and multilingual releases.

Career with B.I.G

During his time with B.I.G, Benji contributed to numerous musical projects and performances across Asia and beyond. His fluency in English and Korean, along with his charismatic presence, made him a standout member. He also expanded into media, appearing on music programs and hosting segments like "Show Champion: Curtain Talk."

Solo Career

Benji officially began his solo career on August 28, 2019, with the release of his digital single "Telephone." After parting ways with GH Entertainment in October 2020, he focused on composing, collaborating with well-known acts such as TVXQ, The Boyz, and INI. He also appeared in JTBC's survival music show "Superband," further showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Recent Developments

In 2023, Benji announced his engagement, receiving warm congratulations from fans and peers alike. Beyond his musical career, he remains active in the creative scene through DJing, songwriting, and online content. His hobbies include cooking, writing lyrics, and yoyo tricks—showing a personality that's as dynamic as his musical talents.

Legacy and Influence

Benji represents a bridge between classical and contemporary music, Western and Korean culture. With a Juilliard-trained background and a vibrant K-pop career, he continues to inspire young artists and fans around the world with his dedication and creative spirit.

Bae Jae-wook (Benji) - Discography

Complete discography of Benji (Bae Jae-wook), including solo releases, B.I.G songs, and collaborations.

Solo Releases

  • "Telephone" (2019) – Digital Single
  • "Trouble" (2021) – Digital Single
  • "W.Y.M" (2021) – Digital Single
  • "Blind" (2022) – Collaboration Single ft. Heize

With B.I.G (Boys In Groove)

  • Hello (2014) – Debut Single
  • Are You Ready? (2015)
  • Taola (2015)
  • Aphrodite (2016)
  • 1.2.3 (2017)
  • Illusion (2019)
  • Remember (2020) – Japanese Single

Collaborations & OSTs

  • "Blind" ft. Heize (2022)
  • Superband (JTBC) – Various Live Covers (2019)
  • Composer – TVXQ, The Boyz, INI (2021–2024)

Features & Guest Appearances

  • "Night Walk" – Collab with Korean Indie Project (2023)
  • "Overtime" – Guest feature on DJ Juice Mixtape (2022)

Bae Jae-wook (Benji) - Awards & Achievement

Awards and achievements of Benji (Bae Jae-wook), former B.I.G member and solo artist.
  • Performed at the Blue House for the South Korean President and dignitaries (2016)
  • Featured on JTBC's Superband showcasing multi-instrumental talent (2019)
  • Hosted Music Access on Arirang Radio (2017–2020)
  • Composed music for artists such as TVXQ, The Boyz, and INI (2021–2024)
  • Recognized by fans for bridging classical music and K-pop performance through violin and vocals
  • Invited as guest speaker and mentor at Korean music camps and workshops
  • Achieved solo success with tracks like "Telephone" and "W.Y.M" on Korean digital charts
  • Gained international fanbase through multilingual promotions with B.I.G in Japan, Indonesia, and the Middle East
  • Recognized as one of few Juilliard-trained musicians active in K-pop

Interesting & Fun Facts About Bae Jae-wook (Benji)

List of interesting facts about Benji (Bae Jae-wook), Korean-American artist and former B.I.G member.
  • Benji started playing the violin at the age of four and was classically trained at the Juilliard School.
  • He is fluent in both English and Korean, and conversational in Japanese.
  • He left Juilliard to pursue a career in K-pop, a rare move for classically trained musicians.
  • Benji can cook very well and has shared recipes and cooking tips with fans.
  • He’s known for his bright and humorous personality, often making others laugh on variety shows.
  • Benji used to host Arirang Radio’s "Music Access," connecting with international fans daily.
  • His MBTI type is ENFP — enthusiastic, creative, and outgoing.
  • He’s passionate about yo-yo tricks and has demonstrated them on camera multiple times.
  • Benji once performed at the Blue House (South Korea's presidential residence).
  • He was active as both a performer and songwriter during and after his time with B.I.G.
  • Benji loves experimenting with musical styles, combining classical and modern influences.

Bae Jae-wook (Benji) - Social Media Accounts

List of official social media accounts of Benji (Bae Jae-wook), Korean-American artist and former B.I.G member.
  • Instagram: @banjijake
  • YouTube: @banjijake
  • Twitter: @Benji_BIG (legacy account)
  • SoundCloud: benjibae
  • TikTok: @banjijake
Stay updated with Benji’s latest projects and personal insights by following him on Instagram: @baebenji92.

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