When you think of Stray Kids, you probably picture the high-energy performances, raw lyrics, and the undeniable bond between the members. While the group is now known as an 8-member powerhouse, Stray Kids originally debuted with nine members. Among them was Kim Woojin, the group’s main vocalist and eldest member. Though his time with the group was brief, Woojin played a key role in Stray Kids’ early days and left a lasting impression on fans.
Kim Woojin was born on April 8, 1997, in Daejeon, South Korea. Before joining JYP Entertainment, he trained under SM Entertainment, one of the "Big Three" K-pop agencies, where he honed his vocal skills. Known for his warm tone and strong stage presence, Woojin quickly stood out as a talented vocalist.
He later joined JYP and became part of the survival show Stray Kids in 2017, created by JYP and Mnet. From the beginning, Woojin impressed with his stable vocals and leadership qualities, earning his spot in the final lineup.
As the eldest and lead vocalist of Stray Kids, Woojin brought vocal stability to the group’s early performances. Fans admired his rich, emotive voice, which stood out in tracks like “Hellevator,” “District 9,” and “My Pace.” He also carried a calm and nurturing presence within the group, often looking after the younger members.
Woojin’s contributions during the pre-debut and I Am album series helped lay the foundation for Stray Kids’ sound — a mix of raw emotion and intensity, matched with powerful vocal lines and self-written lyrics.
On October 27, 2019, JYP Entertainment announced Woojin’s departure from both the company and the group, citing “personal circumstances.” The announcement came as a surprise to many, and naturally, fans had questions. However, both the company and remaining members chose to move forward respectfully without sharing further details, allowing space for privacy and healing.
Stray Kids later re-released their Clé: Levanter album without Woojin’s recorded vocals, and the group continued their journey as eight members.
After a period away from the spotlight, Woojin reintroduced himself to the public in 2021 as a solo artist under 10x Entertainment. He released his debut mini-album, “The Moment: 未成年, A Minor,” which showcased a more introspective and mature side to his artistry. The album touched on themes of youth, growth, and self-discovery — mirroring his personal journey.
Woojin’s solo music leans toward emotional ballads and soft pop, with a focus on vocals and lyrical storytelling. His fans, affectionately called Kubears, have shown unwavering support, celebrating both his past and present achievements.
Although his time with Stray Kids was short, Woojin’s impact is undeniable. He helped shape the group’s early identity and gave fans unforgettable performances. For newer fans just discovering Stray Kids, understanding Woojin’s role provides a fuller picture of the group’s roots.
More importantly, Woojin’s story is a reminder that every artist’s path is different — and valid. Today, he continues to grow as a soloist, releasing music, interacting with fans, and carving out his own space in the industry.
Woojin remains a part of Stray Kids’ history, and his journey since then deserves appreciation in its own right. Whether you first discovered him as a member of Stray Kids or came across his solo work later, one thing is clear — Kim Woojin is a voice worth listening to.
So if you haven’t yet, check out his solo releases, revisit his early performances, and continue supporting artists as they grow, evolve, and follow their own paths.
