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Allen Kim
View on WikipediaKey Information
Kim Ki-bum (Korean: 김기범 ; born December 29, 1990), now better known by his stage name in Japan Allen Kim, is a South Korean idol singer, best known for being a former member of South Korean boy band U-KISS. He is also the younger brother of SS501 member Kim Hyung-jun.
Career
[edit]2006-2007: Career beginnings
[edit]Kibum made his music debut in 2006 with the K-pop group XING, alongside Cheon Hye Sung, Yume and Kevin Woo. However, he left to better his future a year after debuting with XING.
2008: Debut with U-KISS
[edit]In 2008, Kibum together with 5 other members of U-KISS made their official debut with their first mini-album N-Generation. The title track from the album was Not Young an upbeat track that displayed the youth of all the members, and that they themselves are no longer boys.
U-KISS released their second mini-album Bring It Back 2 Old School in February 2009. U-KISS made their TV debut on their first ever variety show All About U-KISS. Later in November 2009 came ContiUKiss, a mini-album that displayed the boys metamorphosis from boys to men. Lee Ki-seop became the 7th member of U-KISS during this mini-album.
The group released their first full-length album Only One in early 2010, with the title track "Bingeul Bingeul". They starred in another second variety show called U-KISS Vampire, which was based on how different blood types interact and react in situations. After receiving much attention from their new album, U-KISS starred in a third variety show called Chef's Kiss, in which the members were divided into several groups and had to complete several missions, such as coming up with new recipes and be part of restaurant crew.
After returning from the Philippines concert series and fanmeets in Malaysia and Singapore, the group October released their fourth mini-album Break Time in October 2010. The song promoted from this album was "Shut Up!!" and the album was received well from the public. They also appeared as regular guests every Wednesday on a Japanese variety show called Made in BS Japan on TV Tokyo, before debuting with their Japanese debut album First Kiss. First Kiss charted at number 2 on the Daily Oricon Chart on its release date.[1]
2011: Departure from U-KISS
[edit]On February 23, 2011, it was revealed that Kibum and Alexander's contracts with NH Media had been terminated.[2] Although at first Kibum's character business with his brother had been cited as the reason for his departure, it was later revealed that NH Media believed he was "lacking"; therefore, NH Media desired member replacements.[3]
2011-2012: HnB Company & Solo Activities
[edit]On December 29, 2010, Kibum setup HnB Company together with his older brother Kim Hyung Jun, a character business based on his original creation, PiroPiro and SiroSiro. following his departure from U-Kiss, he put much effort to promote the business, while at the same time embarking on his solo activity.
On May 21, 2011, Kibum, with the help of Warner Music Singapore held his first solo international activity in Singapore, "Till We Meet Again" Kibum's Farewell Meet&Greet and Fanmeet at IMM Garden Plaza and Dragonfly (St James Power Station) respectively.[4] The trip to Singapore was also slated as a cultural exchange as part of the effort to promote the said character business.[5]
In addition, Kibum also made several public appearances alongside his older brother, Kim Hyung Jun in Korea. On June 17, 2011, it was announced that Kibum, together with 5 other entertainers (Moon Chun Shik, Lady Jane, Kim Ho Young, Kwak Hyun Hwa, Gu Bon Hyung) would join a new reality show by GTV '드림메이커' (Dream Maker) as mentors (or known as 'Dream Planners').[6]
Along with the announced appearance in Dream Maker, Kibum revealed through his official Japanese blog that he had been travelling to and from Japan, hinting at possible activities in Japan. In late August 2011, it was announced that he would be taking part in K-POP MUSIC FESTIVAL (Kagoshima), on September 10 as the MC.
Following his first Japanese stint at Kagoshima, Kibum embarked on his solo activities in Japan as アレン・キボム (Allen Kibum). Shortly after the Kagoshima event, it was revealed that he would be having his acting debut in a Japanese musical 「絆2011 少年よ大紙を抱け！」("Bond 2011, Boys Be Ambitious"), as Allen, a full-time Korean exchange student. The musical was held from October 20–25, 2011, with a total of 8 performances.[7][8][9]
He had another short stint in acting as a cameo in Japanese drama 「孤独のグルメ」 (The Lonely Gourmet), which was aired on TV Tokyo on February 22, 2012, at 00:43–01:13 JST.[10][11] Kibum appeared as guest MC for MADE IN BS JAPAN for several time before it was decided that he would be a regular MC for the show every Friday, starting from January 6, 2012. His regular MC appearance ceased together with the wrapping of the said variety show on March 30, 2012.
Aside from his appearance in television program, Kibum also held his first solo fanmeet live premium in Billboard Live TOKYO, Japan on December 29, 2011, as a commemoration of the start of his solo activity, as well as to celebrate his 21st birthday. Up to date, he has released an official 2012 calendar and some other official merchandises, as well as opened his official Japan Fan Club.[12] He has made live appearance as guest performer in several other events in various places in Japan such as Akita and Osaka. His latest stint as a live performer was Shin-Okubo K-POP STORY, which was held every Tuesday at esprive, Shin-Okubo.[13]
2012: Japanese debut
[edit]Kim Kibum is set to release his debut solo CD entitled Dream (Japanese: ドリーム) on December 26, 2012, in Japan. The single album was initially set to consist of four tracks, all of which were composed by the artist himself.[14] However, on November 15 Kibum revealed through his official Japanese blog that another song titled 'MELODY', composed by Tamaki Koji, had been added to the track list.[15] Later on, it was revealed via Kibum's Twitter that his friend, LeeU (Lee Seung Hyun), had contributed in the making of the single album.[16]
2013: Korea solo debut
[edit]On March 15, 2013, it was announced through an official press release by Professional Entertainment that Kibum will return to Korea entertainment industry with the release of his solo album Longing in April. He will use the stage name Allen Kibum (알렌기범).[17]
Discography
[edit]| Year | Album title | Details | Track listing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Dream[18] |
|
Track listing
|
| Year | Album title | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Longing |
|
Song writing
[edit]- "Hey G" (from SS501: Solo Collection) – composed by Kim Hyung-jun and Kim Ki-bum (H&B)
- "Want It", "The One", "I Am" (from SS501: U R Man) – lyrics by Kim Hyung-jun and Kim Ki-bum (H&B)
Filmography
[edit]- I Am Legend
- The Lonely Gourmet
- Made in BS Japan
References
[edit]- ^ "U-KISS's 'First Kiss' ranks second on Oricon Daily on day of release". Allkpop.
- ^ "김기범 "유키스 탈퇴 아닌 계약해지, 멤버교체 수순" 심경 밝혀, 알렉산더 '당황'(인터뷰)". Newsen. Retrieved 23 February 2011.
- ^ "U-KISS's Kim Kibum provides further detail on withdrawal on KBS's "Entertainers"". Allkpop.
- ^ "单飞后担心少了粉丝拥护 金起范落泪". Archived from the original on 2011-07-27. Retrieved 2012-04-15.
- ^ "유키스 前멤버 김기범, 사업가로 亞 진출". 3 June 2011.
- ^ "GTV 드림메이커 론칭 '레이디제인 곽현화 비롯 6인 스타, 꿈 매니저로 변신'". Archived from the original on 2014-03-29. Retrieved 2012-04-15.
- ^ "Ｕ－ＫＩSS脱退キボムが「アレン」で活動".
- ^ "Withdrawn from U-KISS, Kibum is now active as 'Allen'". Archived from the original on 2012-07-15. Retrieved 2012-04-15.
- ^ "絆2011-少年よ大紙を抱け- オフィシャルウェブサイト".
- ^ "アレン・キボム ： 韓流アイドル役で日本のドラマに初出演 本人は「お笑いが似合うかも」？".
- ^ "Allen Kibum: Role of Hallyu idol in the first drama appearance; "Comedy might suit me"?". Archived from the original on 2012-07-15. Retrieved 2012-04-15.
- ^ "Allen Kibum official homepage". Archived from the original on 2013-05-18. Retrieved 2012-10-16.
- ^ "新大久保 K-POP STORY". Archived from the original on 2012-09-09. Retrieved 2012-10-16.
- ^ "アレン・キボムが待望の日本ソロ・デビュー". Tower Records Online. Tower Records Japan Inc. 15 October 2012. Retrieved 2012-11-23.
- ^ "12月26日のCDデビューの中に玉置浩二さんのメロディーも5曲に入ります。". 15 November 2012. Retrieved 2012-12-19.
- ^ "오늘 드디어 ALLEN KIBUM으로 솔로가 된 후 첫번째 CD가 발매되는 날입니다!곡작업 함께 땀흘리며 열심히한 내 친구 승현이 그리고 중형이형 고맙고 지켜봐주길! 。". 26 December 2012. Retrieved 2012-03-21.
- ^ "Former U-KISS Member Kibum to Release Album in Korea after His Success in Japan 。". 15 March 2013. Archived from the original on June 6, 2013. Retrieved 2013-03-15.
- ^ "Dream album info" Archived 2013-01-02 at the Wayback Machine Universal Music Japan. Retrieved 2012-12-19.
External links
[edit]
Allen Kim
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Childhood and family background
Allen Kim was born Kim Ki-bum on December 29, 1990, in Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea.[6] He grew up as the younger brother of Kim Hyung-jun, a singer and member of the K-pop group SS501.[9] During elementary school, he studied abroad in Australia for two years.[10] Physically, Kim stood at 181 cm tall during his youth and has blood type O.[11]Pre-debut training and education
His family offered crucial support throughout this demanding period.[10]Music career
2006–2007: Debut with XING and early experiences
Allen Kim, then known by his stage name Marumir, began his professional music career in 2006 as a member of the boy group XING, formed under XING Entertainment. The group, consisting initially of four members—Marumir, Kevin Woo, Yume, and Cheon Hye-sung—debuted on December 14, 2006, with their first single album In Your Hands, which featured the title track of the same name along with additional songs like "How" and "Tears".[12] As the main vocalist, Marumir contributed significantly to the group's ballad-oriented sound, drawing on his vocal training to deliver emotive performances during promotions. XING's early activities focused on building visibility in the South Korean music scene through television appearances, radio promotions, and live stages, marking Marumir's introduction to professional idol life. The group held their first fan meetings shortly after debut, fostering initial connections with supporters and gaining modest media exposure as one of the emerging acts of the era. Their efforts positioned XING among the top five most anticipated rookie groups for 2007, highlighting potential in the competitive K-pop landscape.[13] However, XING encountered challenges, including limited commercial success and frequent lineup adjustments due to internal management decisions, which disrupted group cohesion. These issues culminated in Marumir's departure on July 13, 2007, as he sought better opportunities to advance his career, leading to the addition of new members and a shift to the second generation lineup.[12]2008–2011: U-KISS era and departure
Allen Kim, performing under the stage name Kibum, joined the boy band U-KISS under NH Media in 2008 as one of the original six members, alongside Alexander, Soohyun, Eli, Kevin, and Dongho. The group debuted on August 28, 2008, with a live performance of their single "Not Young" on Mnet's M Countdown, followed by the release of their first mini-album New Generation on September 3.[3][14] As the lead vocalist, Kibum contributed to the group's vocal dynamics, drawing from his prior training experiences, and participated in the recording and promotion of subsequent releases, including the 2009 mini-albums Bring It Back 2 Old School—featuring the track "I Like You"—and ContiUKiss, which included the breakout single "Man Man Ha Ni."[1] These efforts helped establish U-KISS's sound blending pop, R&B, and dance elements. During this period, U-KISS expanded internationally, holding their first Japanese showcase in August 2008 and conducting promotions across Asia, including a U.S. showcase in 2010 that introduced them to American audiences through performances of hits like "Bingeul Bingeul" from their 2009 album Actor Under 18.[5] The group's fanbase, known as KissMe, grew significantly, particularly after "Man Man Ha Ni" achieved moderate chart success—peaking at number 25 on the MIAK monthly chart—and garnered attention for its catchy choreography. Kibum's involvement extended to variety show appearances, such as on Star King and X-Man, where the members showcased their charisma and humor, boosting the group's visibility and appeal among younger demographics in South Korea and abroad.[15] These activities marked U-KISS's peak early popularity, with album sales reaching over 20,000 copies for ContiUKiss and establishing them as a rising second-generation K-pop act. Kibum's tenure ended on February 23, 2011, when NH Media announced the termination of his exclusive contract by mutual agreement, alongside Alexander's departure, as the agency sought to refresh the lineup with new members. In a statement, Kibum clarified that he did not quit but was requested to leave following discussions about member changes, allowing him to pursue independent projects thereafter.[16][17] This exit, amid the group's growing Japanese market focus, shifted U-KISS toward a restructured era without Kibum's contributions.2011–2013: Transition to solo career and debuts
Following his departure from U-KISS in February 2011, Kim Kibum established himself as a solo artist by co-founding HnB Company with his brother Kim Hyung-jun, transitioning from group activities to independent management of his career.[14] In September 2011, he announced a stage name change to Allen Kim specifically for his upcoming Japanese promotions, marking a deliberate shift toward a more international solo identity while retaining elements of his vocal style from U-KISS, such as emotive ballad delivery.[18] Allen Kim made his Japanese solo debut on December 26, 2012, with the mini-album Dream, released under Universal D in collaboration with HnB Company. The title track, also titled "Dream," featured upbeat pop elements and received promotional support through music shows and online teasers, aiming to appeal to J-pop audiences. Although specific tour details are limited, he conducted showcase events and fan engagements in Japan to build his presence, emphasizing themes of aspiration and personal growth in line with the album's concept.[5] Returning to Korea, Allen Kim released his solo single "Longing" on April 5, 2013, under Professional Entertainment, featuring transgender singer Harisu in a collaboration that highlighted emotional depth in its R&B-infused track. The music video, released via the agency's YouTube channel, depicted themes of yearning and solitude, garnering views but modest chart performance on platforms like Bugs and Melon, where it peaked outside the top 50. Throughout 2012–2013, he held solo fan meetings, such as the "Memory of Love" event in Hong Kong in September 2013, and participated in media interviews where he discussed the challenges and freedoms of independence, including creative control over his music.[19][2][20]2014–present: Later musical activities and business transition
Following his solo debut in 2013, Allen Kim's musical output became more limited, consisting of occasional digital singles and features rather than full albums. This period marked a gradual pivot toward entrepreneurship, building on the independence gained from his earlier solo work. In August 2018, Kim founded SDKB Co., Ltd. in Seoul, assuming the role of CEO alongside his brother. The company specializes in international trade, performance planning, and entertainment consulting, with a core focus on producing and distributing K-content through an O2O (offline-to-online) platform for global audiences.[21][22] As of 2025, SDKB continues to operate from its headquarters in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, emphasizing cross-border entertainment projects that leverage Kim's prior experience in Japan and Korea. Kim has occasionally returned to performing, including musical appearances at corporate events, while prioritizing business leadership. In reflections shared through professional profiles, he has noted the demands of managing creative pursuits alongside entrepreneurial responsibilities.[11][6]Personal life
Marriage and family
Allen Kim married a Japanese businesswoman in early 2019, with the union publicly revealed on January 30, 2019.[8] His wife, who operates a bag business in Japan, is the eldest daughter of the chairman of a major Japanese company in the food service and karaoke chain sector.[23] The couple welcomed their first son on January 18, 2019, shortly before the marriage announcement.[8] The arrival of his family marked a significant personal milestone for Kim, providing renewed motivation that influenced his shift toward more stable business pursuits, including work in performance planning and international trade under his current name.[23] His spouse's professional background in business has offered supportive ties to his entrepreneurial endeavors.[23] Kim has adopted a privacy-focused approach to his family life, sharing minimal details publicly to protect his non-celebrity wife and young child from media scrutiny.[8] In a personal letter to fans posted on social media following the news, he expressed regret for not informing them sooner and kindly requested their understanding in maintaining the family's privacy.[8]Philanthropy and interests
Allen Kim maintains personal interests that reflect his artistic roots and international lifestyle. Frequent travel between Korea and Japan allows him to nurture cultural connections, informed by his dual-market career.Artistic contributions
With XING
Allen Kim debuted with the boy group XING under the stage name Marumir, contributing vocals to their initial release. The group's first single album, In Your Hands, was released on December 14, 2006, featuring the title track of the same name.[12]With U-KISS
As Kibum, Allen Kim provided vocals for U-KISS's early releases. He participated in the group's debut mini-album New Generation, released on September 3, 2008, which included the title track "Not Young."[24] In 2009, he contributed to two mini-albums: Bring It Back 2 Old School, released on March 3, and ContiUKiss, released on November 23, the latter featuring the track "Man Man Ha Ni" on which he performed vocals.[25]Solo releases
Allen Kim transitioned to solo activities after leaving U-KISS in 2011. His Japanese debut came with the mini-album Dream, released on December 26, 2012, by IQG and Universal D in Japan. The album includes the tracks "Dream," "Make It," "MELODY" (cover of Koji Tamaki's song), and their respective instrumental versions.[26] In Korea, he released the single "Longing" (그리움) on April 5, 2013, under Professional Entertainment, featuring Hot Issue.[2] As of 2025, no further solo releases or major features have been documented.Songwriting credits
No songwriting credits for Allen Kim are documented in his discography with XING, U-KISS, or solo releases.Media appearances
Filmography
Allen Kim began his acting career with cameo appearances tied to his U-KISS activities, often portraying himself or band members in scripted roles that highlighted his idol persona. These early forays into acting overlapped with his music career, showcasing his versatility as a performer. Over time, he took on guest spots in international dramas, though his filmography remains modest, totaling three verified projects as of 2025. He received no major awards for his acting but earned recognition from fans and media for bridging the idol-to-actor transition in the K-pop industry.Key Roles
| Year | Title | Role | Description | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | I Am Legend | Kibum (keyboardist in Kiss Band) | Cameo as a member of an idol band in this Korean musical drama, performing alongside U-KISS bandmates. | [27] |
| 2010 | Autumn Destiny | Supporting role | Starred in this Thai melodrama focusing on love and betrayal, sharing the screen with U-KISS member Eli. | [28] |
| 2012 | Kodoku no Gourmet (Season 1, Episode 8) | Korean idol | Guest appearance as a stylish Korean entertainer introducing the protagonist to Korean cuisine in this Japanese food-themed series. | [1] |