B.I (rapper)

B.I, born Kim Han-bin (김한빈) on October 22, 1996, is a South Korean rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is best known for his role as the leader and main songwriter of the boy group iKON, formed by YG Entertainment in 2015.

Career:

B.I rose to prominence after appearing on the survival show WIN: Who Is Next in 2013 as part of "Team B." Although his team did not win, they competed again on another survival show, Mix & Match, which resulted in the formation of iKON. He served as the leader, songwriter, and composer for the majority of iKON's songs, including hit tracks like "My Type," "Love Scenario," and "Killing Me."

In June 2019, B.I left iKON and YG Entertainment following allegations of purchasing illegal drugs in 2016. An investigation followed.

Following a period of hiatus, B.I established his own label, IOK Company's sub-label 131 Label, in 2021. He returned to the music scene with the release of his debut solo half-album Midnight Blue (Love Streaming) in 2021. He has since released several EPs and a full-length album, Waterfall, showcasing his continued development as an artist and songwriter. His solo work explores themes of love, loss, and personal reflection, often incorporating introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes.

Discography:

• Midnight Blue (Love Streaming) (2021) - Half Album
• Waterfall (2021) - Studio Album
• Cosmos (2021) - Half Album
• Love or Loved [L.O.L] (2022) - Global EP
• To Die For (2023) - Full Album
• Love or Loved Part.2 (2023) - Global EP

Awards and Recognition:

Throughout his career, both as a member of iKON and as a solo artist, B.I has received numerous awards and nominations for his musical contributions. He is recognized for his songwriting and producing abilities, as well as his stage presence and artistic vision. He has won awards at major Korean music award shows such as the MAMA Awards, Melon Music Awards, and Golden Disc Awards, both with iKON and for his solo work.