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Code Kunst
View on WikipediaThis article contains historical images which have been upscaled using AI. (February 2025) |
Key Information
Jo Sung-woo (Korean: 조성우; born December 18, 1989), better known by his stage name Code Kunst (코드 쿤스트), is a South Korean composer and music producer. In 2015, he released his second studio album Crumple and joined Highgrnd. In 2017, he released his third studio album Muggles' Mansion. In 2018, he signed to AOMG and appeared as a judge alongside Paloalto on Show Me the Money 777. He released his fourth studio album People in 2020 and won Producer of the Year at the Korean Hip-hop Awards in 2021. In 2023, he released his fifth studio album Remember Archive.
Early life and education
[edit]Jo Sung-woo was born on December 18, 1989, in Yeonsu, Incheon.[2][3] He became interested in hip hop after listening to Nas' "Doo Rags".[4] He decided to pursue a career in music after serving in the military.[5] He studied design at Dong-ah Institute of Media and Arts, but got expelled.[6]
The word "Kunst" means "Art" in German, so the stage name Code Kunst has a meaning of "the music I produced will become arts."[7]
Career
[edit]2013–2017: Signing to Highgrnd
[edit]In 2013, Code Kunst released his debut single "Lemonade",[2] starting his music career relatively late in his life. Upon being asked whether he was nervous about his career in the beginning, he said, "At first, I wasn't nervous because in the beginning I was really going to do music as a hobby. I was already somewhat old and I didn't have the skills at first, but I felt that I needed to hurry. I'm too late, I'm too late... this thought was so strong. So I made the decision to spend the years I was 24 and 25 years old, 2 years--2 years, let me use that as if it were 4 years."[8]
In April 2015, he released his second studio album Crumple, which was later nominated for Best Rap Album at the Korean Music Awards.[9] In September 2015, Code Kunst joined the label HIGHGRND under YG Entertainment due to the impact of Tablo.[10] He specifically cited Tablo's willingness to work together in person, such as on tracks like "Hood" featuring Tablo and Joey Bada$$, made him believe HIGHGRND was a good label for him.[11] He released his third album Muggles' Mansion in February 2017,[12] which received critical acclaim.[13]
2018–present: Signing to AOMG
[edit]Code Kunst left HIGHGRND and joined AOMG in June 2018.[14] In September 2018, he officially appeared in the Korean Hip-Hop survival show Show Me the Money 777 as one of the judges.[15] "Good Day", a song he composed on the show, received positive reviews from critics.[16] Loopy and Kid Milli from his team won second and third place in Show Me the Money 777.
In 2019, Code Kunst, along with Jay Park, Simon Dominic, Woo Won-jae, and Gray, appeared as judges on the audition program Signhere started by Korean Hip-hop label AOMG and MBN.[17] In the same year, he appeared in another Hip-hop reality survival program High School Rapper 3.[18] He was in the same team with The Quiett. Together they produced "Go High" (feat. Changmo, Woo Won-jae), sang by female rapper Lee Young-ji, who became the final winner to the show.
Code Kunst released his fourth studio album People in 2020. In the same year, he was announced as a producer for 'Show Me the Money 9' along with Paloalto as a team.[19] In 2021, he won Producer of the Year at the Korean Hip-hop Awards.[20] He then appeared as a winning producer for Show Me the Money 10 along with Gaeko of the rap group Dynamic Duo.
In 2023, he released his fifth studio album Remember Archive.[21]
Television
[edit]Jo has appeared on I Live Alone as a regular cast since 2022. For his appearance on the show, he won the Rookie Award in 2022 and Popularity Award in 2023 at the MBC Entertainment Awards.[22][23]
In March 2024, Jo was announced as one of the panelists for South Korean dating reality show, My Sibling's Romance.[24]
Artistry
[edit]Code Kunst said that looking at his mother's paintings while growing up has greatly influenced and aided him in visualizing music.[25] Additionally, in an interview-style conversation with fellow AOMG member Punchnello, he has said that he draws musical inspiration from the simple and common experiences of everyday people which he also had before signing with larger labels (including "financially troubling situations and the kinds of things that happen in such situations"). As a result, he thought signing with a label too early might hinder his ability to experience the things regular people go through in their mid-20s.[26] For similar reasons, he had decided to name his 2017 album, "Muggles' Mansion." Specifically he has said that the world "muggles" has two meanings to him, one which means very common and one that does not. For the album he wanted to "tell common stories with sources that reflect myself, yet includes sounds which aren't so common."[27]
He adds a lot of vocal chopping in his music which became one of his unique music styles.[28] Rolling Stone India commented that "he takes deep dives into old-school blues, rock, soul and hip-hop, tying it all neatly together with his signature vocal chopping techniques and flawless loops of instrumentals."[29]
He cited Mac Miller as his biggest influence.[30]
Philanthropy
[edit]In 2020, Code Kunst donated to the Official George Floyd Memorial Fund, stating that Black music made a big impact on his life.[31]
Personal life
[edit]Code Kunst has two cats named Panda and Sheero.[32]
Filmography
[edit]Television shows
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Notes | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Show Me the Money 777 | Judge and producer | ||
| 2019 | Signhere | |||
| High School Rapper 3 | ||||
| 2020 | King of Mask Singer | Contestant | [33] | |
| Show Me the Money 9 | Judge and producer | |||
| 2021 | Show Me the Money 10 | [34] | ||
| 2022–present | I Live Alone | Regular cast | [35] | |
| 2023 | My Friends Are Smarter Than Me | Host | [36] | |
| Sing Again | Judge | Season 3 | [37] | |
| 2024 | My Sibling's Romance | Host | [38] | |
| 2025 | Good Day | Cast member | [39] |
Web shows
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Notes | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Change Days | Host | Season 2 | [40] |
| Witch Hunt 2022 | [41] |
Music video appearances
[edit]| Year | Song Title | Artist | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | "Lipstick" | Lee Hi (Feat. Yoon Mirae) | [42] |
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Album details | Peak chart positions | Sales |
|---|---|---|---|
| KOR [43] | |||
| Novel |
|
— | — |
| Crumple |
|
34 |
|
| Muggles' Mansion |
|
26 |
|
| People | 10 |
| |
| Remember Archive |
|
19 |
|
| "—" denotes releases that did not chart. | |||
Extended plays
[edit]| Title | EP details |
|---|---|
| Hear Things |
|
Singles
[edit]| Title | Year | Peak chart positions |
Album |
|---|---|---|---|
| KOR [48] | |||
| "Lemonade" feat. Blnk-Time |
2013 | — | Hear Things |
| "1-2" feat. C Jamm |
— | ||
| "Betting" feat. Don Mills |
2014 | — | Novel |
| "Edison" (에디슨) feat. Nucksal |
2015 | — | Crumple |
| "Golden Cow" feat. C Jamm and DJ SQ |
— | ||
| "Hood" feat. Tablo and Joey Badass |
— | Non-album single | |
| "Parachute" feat. Oh Hyuk and Dok2 |
24 | Muggle's Mansion | |
| "Beside Me" feat. BewhY, YDG and Suran |
2016 | 92 | |
| "Fire Water" feat. G.Soul and Tablo |
2017 | — | |
| "Rain Bird" feat. Colde and Tablo |
2018 | — | Non-album singles |
| "Bless" feat. Loco and Woo Won-jae |
— | ||
| "XI" feat. Lee Hi |
2019 | 199 | |
| "Too Late" feat. JMSN |
— | ||
| "Treat Her Better" feat. Niia |
— | All About Us | |
| "Joke!" Feat. C Jamm and Simon Dominic |
2020 | — | People |
| "Knock" feat. Baek Ye-rin |
— | ||
| "Flower" (꽃) feat. Jay Park, Woo and Giriboy |
140 | ||
| "For the Gone" (사라진 모든 것들에게) with Choi Jung-hoon and Simon Dominic |
106 | Non-album singles | |
| "You Get Off" | 2021 | — | |
| "Cheers" (치열) with Lee Chan-hyuk, Colde and Sogumm |
— | ||
| "Take Me" with Meenoi |
2022 | — | |
| "The Ball Is Round" with Woo Won-jae and Jeon So-yeon |
— | ||
| "Bad Bad" (feat. Tabber and Jay Park) |
2023 | — | Remember Archive |
| "55" (feat. Baek Ye-rin and Wendy) |
99 | ||
| "Jumper" (feat. Gaeko and Mino) |
102 | ||
| "Circle" (feat. Crush) |
183 | ||
| "—" denotes releases that did not chart. | |||
Awards and nominations
[edit]| Award | Year | Nominee | Category | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Dragon Series Awards | 2024 | My Sibling's Romance | Best Male Entertainer | Nominated | [49] |
| Korean Music Awards | 2016 | Crumple | Best Rap Album | Nominated | [9] |
| Korean Hip-hop Awards | 2018 | Muggles' Mansion | Hip-hop Album of the Year | Nominated | [50] |
| Himself | Producer of the Year | Nominated | |||
| 2019 | Nominated | [51] | |||
| 2021 | Won | [20] | |||
| 2022 | Nominated | [52] | |||
| 2024 | Nominated | [53] | |||
| MBC Entertainment Awards | 2022 | Rookie Award – Male | Won | [22] | |
| 2023 | Popularity Award - Reality | Won | [23] | ||
| Brand Customer Loyalty Awards | 2023 | Multitainer - Male | Won | [54] |
References
[edit]- ^ Shin, Dongha (2022-01-31). [오피니언] 이상한 보통 사람들, 리짓군즈 입덕 가이드 ① [음악]. Art Insight. Retrieved 2023-11-03.
- ^ a b "코드 쿤스트". Daum Encyclopedia.
- ^ Park, Eun-hae (February 18, 2022). "샤이니 민호 서울대 출신 엄친아 형, 코드쿤스트 절친으로 깜짝 등장 '나혼산'" [Shinee Minho's brother, Mr. Perfect who graduated from Seoul National University, made a surprise appearance as a close friend of Code Kunst]. Newsen (in Korean).
- ^ "[GL Interview] 다양한 장르의 용광로에서 주조된 Code Kunst의 음악 바이오그래피". Gear Lounge (in Korean). June 8, 2020.
- ^ Park, Su-in (March 5, 2017). "[팝인터뷰]코드쿤스트, 하루를 이틀처럼 2년 같은 1년 보낸 이유". Herald Pop.
- ^ "코드쿤스트 "이하이 백예린 AOMG행? 아티스트 판단에..." / CODE KUNST(코드 쿤스트) _ Flower(꽃) / 본인등판 / Look Me Up". 1theK Originals. YouTube. April 7, 2020.
- ^ Kang, Il-gwon (June 20, 2014). 코드 쿤스트 – 이례적인 비트메이커, '코드명: 쿤스트'. Rhythmer.
- ^ "[Producer Code Kunst] All About_Code Kunst : part.1". YouTube. 17 May 2016. Retrieved 29 September 2020.
- ^ a b "CODE KUNST [CRUMPLE]". Korean Music Awards (in Korean).
- ^ Lee, Mi-yeong (September 22, 2015). 코드쿤스트, 혁오 이어 하이그라운드 합류 [Code Kunst, joins Highgrnd after Oh Hyuk]. iNews24 (in Korean).
- ^ "Picking at the mind of producer Code Kunst!". YouTube. 27 February 2017.
- ^ 코드 쿤스트, 신곡 'FIRE WATER' M/V 티저 공개 (in Korean). Ten Asia.
- ^ "2017 올해의 가요 앨범". IZM. December 2017.
- ^ Kim, Eun-ae (June 11, 2018). "AOMG, 코드 쿤스트 정식 영입..신곡 타블로 피처링" [AOMG, officially signs Code Kunst..Tablo features on new song]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean).
- ^ Park, Se-hoe (July 15, 2018). "(공식)'쇼미더머니 777'의 프로듀서 라인이 완성됐다" [The producer line of 'Show Me the Money 777' is completed]. Huffington Post Korea (in Korean).
- ^ "《2018, 음악취향Y의 추천》 장르별 싱글 (6) : 힙합 #2". Music Y. February 21, 2019.
- ^ "MBN, 첫 힙합 예능 'SignHere' 론칭한다…KBS 출신 남성현 PD 첫 작품". 스타투데이 (in Korean). 22 March 2019. Retrieved 2020-01-25.
- ^ "[HD스압포토] '고등래퍼3' ① 더 콰이엇-코드 쿤스트, 힙합 어르신 납시오!(제작발표회)". 제니스글로벌뉴스 (in Korean). 2019-02-22. Retrieved 2020-01-31.
- ^ 엠넷 '쇼미9' 프로듀서 4팀 결성·자이언티-기리보이 등 [Mnet 'Show Me 9' 4 producer teams are formed, Zion.T-Giriboy etc.]. The Korea Economic Daily Entertainment (in Korean). August 19, 2020.
- ^ a b 한국힙합어워즈 2021 수상작 [Korean Hip-hop Awards 2021 Winners]. Korean Hip-hop Awards (in Korean).
- ^ Lee, Jin-ju (March 3, 2023). 코드 쿤스트, 정규 5집 'Remember Archive' 16일 발매 [Code Kunst, releases fifth studio album 'Remember Archive' on 16]. BNT (in Korean).
- ^ a b Cha Sang-yeop (December 30, 2022). "MBC연예대상' 전현무 대상… '나혼산' 올해의 예능프로그램(종합)" ['MBC Entertainment Awards' Jeon Hyun-moo Grand Prize... 'Nahonsan' Entertainment Program of the Year (Comprehensive)] (in Korean). Money S. Retrieved December 29, 2022 – via Naver.
- ^ a b Kim, So-yeon (2023-12-29). 원탑X코쿤, 인기상 수상 "책임감 느껴"[2023 MBC 방송연예대상] [One Top X Cokun, wins popularity award "I feel responsible"]. Star Today (in Korean).
- ^ '연애남매' 이진주 PD "후반부 관전포인트는 남매들 팀플레이"[N인터뷰]①. News1 (in Korean). 2024-03-29. Retrieved 2024-04-04.
- ^ "[CODE KUNST : 9¾ DOCUMENTARY] EP 01 엄마의 그림들 (Mother's Drawings)". YouTube. 17 June 2016.
- ^ 코드 쿤스트(CODE KUNST) & 펀치넬로 (punchnello) | AOMG ANJU(안주) (ENG). AOMG. 12 February 2020.
- ^ "[ENG SUB] COMMENTARY&BEHIND : CODE KUNST - MUGGLES' MANSION". SEOUL MUSIC (서울뮤직). 9 March 2017.
- ^ AOMG - [코드 쿤스트 (CODE KUNST)] MBC, '라디오스타' - 2019. 06. 19.... | Facebook, retrieved 2020-01-31
- ^ Chakraborty, Riddhi (April 5, 2020). "Kulture Kolumn: Appreciating the Genius of Code Kunst". Rolling Stone India.
- ^ Lee, Ju-han (September 8, 2018). '쇼미더머니 777' 코드 쿤스트, 故 맥 밀러 추모 "진심으로 동경했던 유일한 뮤지션". Seoul Economic.
- ^ 국내에서도 뜨거운 'Black Lives Matter' 운동. Melon (in Korean). June 5, 2020.
- ^ Shin, Ji-won (January 14, 2022). 코드 쿤스트, 고양이 집사로 사는 법..."반려묘 시루X판다 궁디 팡팡...내 궁딩이는 누가 두들겨 주나"('나혼산'). The Korea Economic Daily.
- ^ Ji, Min-kyung (May 3, 2020). '복면가왕' 코드쿤스트·차청화·김강훈·럭키 1R 탈락..주윤발 6연승 도전 [종합]. OSEN (in Korean). Retrieved May 3, 2020.
- ^ Park, Soo-in (August 9, 2021). 개코-코드 쿤스트 '쇼미더머니10' 프로듀서 합류 '킹메이커 군단 완성 [Gaeko-Code Kunst joined the producer of 'Show Me the Money 10' and completed the 'Kingmaker Corps']. Newsen (in Korean). Naver. Retrieved August 9, 2021.
- ^ Hwang, Hyo-i (July 25, 2022). 기안84X코드쿤스트, 황정민·조승우·지진희 계보 이을까 [Kian 84 x Code Kunst, will they be the next Hwang Jeong-min, Jo Seung-woo, and Ji Jin-hui?]. Sports Kyunghyang (in Korean).
- ^ Kang, Da-yun (January 2, 2023). 내친나똑' 전현무 MC 발탁→조세호·코드쿤스트·김동현 출격 [공식] [Selected MC Jeon Hyun-moo for 'My Chin-na-tok'→Jo Se-ho, Code Kunst, and Kim Dong-hyun sortie [Official]] (in Korean). MyDaily. Retrieved January 2, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Lee, Seul (November 8, 2023). '싱어게인3' 최초 슈퍼 어게인→"내 OST가 가장 유명" 참가자까지 ['Singer Gain 3' first super gain → "My OST is the most famous" participant]. X-ports News (in Korean). Retrieved November 8, 2023 – via Naver.
- ^ Ahn, Eun-jae (2024-03-01). 가족과 연애가 합쳤다… '환연' 이진주 PD의 '연애남매' 어떨까 [N초점] [Family and love combined... How will 'My Sibling's Romance' by 'Exchange' PD Lee Jin-ju be?]. News1 (in Korean).
- ^ Lee, Yu-min (December 16, 2024). "G-Dragon Reunites with Jung Hyung-don and Kim Tae-ho for New Variety". K-en News. Hankooki. Archived from the original on February 17, 2025. Retrieved February 16, 2025.
- ^ Jeong, Bit (May 12, 2022). [공식]'체인지 데이즈' 시즌2, 6월 2일 첫공개…"진짜 헤어지는 기분" 티저부터 화제 [[Official] 'Change Days' Season 2, first released on June 2nd... From the teaser of "It feels like a real breakup" topic] (in Korean). Sports Chosun. Retrieved May 12, 2022 – via Naver.
- ^ Oh, Ji-won (May 23, 2022). 마녀사냥' 7년 만의 귀환…신동엽·김이나·코드쿤스트·비비 MC 발탁 ['Witch Hunt' returns after 7 years... Shin Dong-yeop, Kim Ina, Code Kunst, and BB were selected as MCs] (in Korean). YTN. Retrieved May 23, 2022 – via Naver.
- ^ Choi, Jeong-ah (September 9, 2021). 이하이, 등장한 '빨간 립스틱' 뮤비 티저 공개…박재범→정찬성 총출동 [Lee Hi, 'Red Lipstick' MV teaser released... Jae-beom Park → Chan-seong Jeong]. Sportsworld (in Korean). Retrieved September 9, 2021 – via Naver.
- ^ Circle Chart peaks:
- "Crumple". Circle Chart. September 16, 2017. Retrieved September 22, 2022.
- "Muggle's Mansion". Circle Chart. March 11, 2017. Retrieved September 22, 2022.
- "People". Circle Music Chart. April 11, 2020. Retrieved September 22, 2022.
- "Remember Archive". Circle Music Chart. April 15, 2023. Retrieved April 20, 2023.
- ^ 2017년 09월 Album Chart.
- ^ 2017년 03월 Album Chart.
- ^ "Circle Album Chart – April 2020". Circle Chart (in Korean). Retrieved April 20, 2023.
- ^ Cumulative sale of Remember Archive:
- "Circle Album Chart – Week 15, 2023". Circle Chart (in Korean). Retrieved April 20, 2023.
- "Circle Album Chart – Week 16, 2023". Circle Chart (in Korean). Retrieved April 28, 2023.
- ^ Circle Digital Chart peak positions
- "Parachute": "Digital Chart - 2015 Weeks 44". Circle Chart. Retrieved September 22, 2022.
- "Beside Me": "Digital Chart- 2016 Weeks 31". Circle Chart. Retrieved September 23, 2022.
- "XI": "Digital Chart - 2019 Weeks 02". Circle Chart. Retrieved September 22, 2022.
- "Flower": "Digital Chart – Week 14 of 2020". Gaon Chart (in Korean). Retrieved April 9, 2020.
- "For the Gone": "Digital Chart - 2020 Weeks 47". Circle Chart (in Korean). Retrieved September 23, 2022.
- "55": "Digital Chart - 2023 Week 11". Circle Chart (in Korean). Retrieved March 23, 2023.
- "Jumper" and "Circle": "Digital Chart - 2023 Week 12". Circle Chart (in Korean). Retrieved March 30, 2023.
- ^ Moon, Ji-yeon (June 24, 2024). [공식] '무빙'·'SNL코리아' 최다 노미..제3회 청룡시리즈어워즈 후보 격돌 [[Official] 'Moving' and 'SNL Korea' most nominated..Candidates clash for the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards]. Sports Chosun (in Korean). Retrieved June 26, 2024 – via Naver.
- ^ "Korean Hip-hop Awards 2018 nominees". Korean Hip-hop Awards (in Korean).
- ^ "Korean Hip-hop Awards 2019 nominees". Korean Hip-hop Awards (in Korean).
- ^ "Korean Hip-hop Awards 2022 Nominees". Korean Hip-hop Awards (in Korean).
- ^ "Korean Hip-hop Awards 2024 nominees". Korean Hip-hop Awards (in Korean).
- ^ Kim, Yang-su (May 2, 2023). 황제성x장도연x아이브, '브랜드 고객충성도 대상' 부문별 최고점 [Hwang Je-seong, Jang Do-yeon, Ive, scores highest in each "Brand Customer Loyalty Award' category]. Joy News 24 (in Korean).
External links
[edit]- Code Kunst on AOMG
Code Kunst
View on GrokipediaBackground
Early life
Jo Sung-woo, professionally known as Code Kunst, was born on December 18, 1989, in Yeonsu-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, South Korea.[4][2][3] He was raised in the nearby Songdo area of Incheon, where he spent his formative years.[3][2] Public details regarding his family background or specific childhood experiences remain limited, with no verified accounts of early musical influences or familial involvement in the arts emerging from available records.[8]Education
Code Kunst, born in Incheon, South Korea, completed his early education at Yeonsung Elementary School and Yeonsung Middle School. He then attended Yeonsu High School, where he was recognized as a top student.[2][9] In April 2025, he donated clothing, sneakers, LPs, and albums valued at 1 million KRW (approximately $705) to students at his alma mater high school through a lucky draw event.[9] Following high school, Code Kunst enrolled at Dong-Ah Institute of Media and Arts, studying digital video design in the content department. He was subsequently expelled from the institution.[3] No further formal higher education is documented, as he shifted focus to music production after completing mandatory military service.[3]Career
Early career and Highgrnd affiliation (2013–2017)
Code Kunst initiated his professional music career as an independent artist in 2013, releasing his debut single "Lemonade" featuring BLNK-TIME on May 16.[10] Self-taught as a beatmaker, he entered the industry relatively late at age 23, focusing on hip-hop production with experimental sampling techniques.[11] On April 7, 2014, he issued his debut studio album Novel, a 12-track project that showcased his production style through collaborations with vocalists like BLNK-TIME on "We Are" and JJK on "Ash."[12] The album highlighted his ability to blend lo-fi aesthetics with intricate beats, establishing an underground following in South Korea's hip-hop scene.[13] His second studio album, Crumple, arrived on April 28, 2015, further refining his signature sound with textured instrumentation and guest features.[14] This release marked a step toward broader recognition, though still independent, before transitioning to label support.[15] In September 2015, Code Kunst signed with Highgrnd, a hip-hop-focused sub-label of YG Entertainment founded by Epik High's Tablo on May 14, 2015, becoming one of its early producers alongside acts like Hyukoh.[16] [17] The affiliation provided resources for expanded production, including the 2015 single "Parachute" featuring Oh Hyuk of Hyukoh and Dok2, which demonstrated his growing network in the industry.[18] Under Highgrnd through 2017, Code Kunst continued developing collaborative projects, culminating in his third studio album Muggles' Mansion on February 28, 2017.[19] The album incorporated label synergies, such as the track "Fire Water" featuring G.Soul and Tablo, emphasizing soulful hip-hop elements and live instrumentation.[20] This period solidified his reputation as a versatile producer bridging underground experimentation with mainstream accessibility.[21]AOMG affiliation (2018–2023)
Code Kunst joined AOMG on June 10, 2018, after departing from Highgrnd earlier that year.[22][23] To mark the affiliation, AOMG released his single "rain bird" on the same day, featuring vocals from Colde and raps from Tablo.[24] In September 2018, he debuted as AOMG's representative on the survival program Show Me the Money 777, serving as a producer and judge alongside Paloalto, where he contributed to track production and contestant evaluations.[25] During his tenure, Code Kunst released his fourth studio album People on October 26, 2020, featuring collaborations with artists including pH-1, The Quiett, and Yerin Baek, which showcased his signature eclectic production blending hip-hop, jazz, and electronic elements.[25] The album received critical acclaim for its experimental soundscapes and guest features from AOMG affiliates. In 2021, he earned the Producer of the Year award at the Korean Hip-Hop Awards, recognizing his contributions to the genre's production landscape.[6] That year, he also produced tracks for Show Me the Money 10, including "UP" performed by SINCE featuring Jay Park and Woo, which advanced to the finals.[26] In 2023, Code Kunst issued the album Remember Archive, a 17-track project under AOMG that revisited and remixed archival material with new collaborations, further solidifying his role in the label's output.[25][27] His AOMG period emphasized collaborative production within the label's hip-hop ecosystem, yielding multiple chart-performing singles and reinforcing his reputation as a versatile beatmaker.[6]Post-AOMG independence (2024–present)
In April 2024, Code Kunst's exclusive contract with AOMG concluded after six years, as announced by the label on April 26.[25] This departure followed similar exits by other AOMG artists, marking a shift toward independent ventures in the Korean hip-hop scene.[28] On May 31, 2024, Code Kunst co-founded the creative agency and music label duover alongside producers GRAY and Woo Won-jae, with the trio serving as co-CEOs.[29][28] The new entity focuses on music production and artist management, emphasizing collaborative independence from larger labels like AOMG. In September 2024, duover expanded by signing singer Lee Hi to an exclusive contract, bolstering its roster.[30] Post-founding, Code Kunst maintained visibility through media appearances, including an October 18, 2024, episode of the variety show I Live Alone, where he experimented with snacks and parkour activities.[31] In a subsequent October 17, 2025, appearance on the same program, he discussed challenges in album production, highlighting the role of deadlines in overcoming creative blocks.[32] As of late 2025, no major solo releases from Code Kunst under duover have been publicly announced, though the label's formation signals ongoing collaborative projects.[33]Television and media appearances
Code Kunst entered television primarily through South Korean hip-hop survival programs, where his production expertise was highlighted. In 2018, he debuted as a judge and producer on Show Me the Money 777, partnering with Paloalto to mentor contestants and contributing tracks like the chart-topping "Good Day."[1][34] He returned for Show Me the Money 9 in 2020, teaming with pH-1, and Show Me the Money 10 in 2021, where his collaboration with Gaeko guided winner Gwangil to victory in the finals on December 3, 2021.[35][36] In 2019, he served as a mentor on High School Rapper 3, providing guidance to young rappers.[4] Expanding into variety programming, Code Kunst became a regular cast member on MBC's I Live Alone (also known as Home Alone) from episode 444 in 2022, revealing aspects of his solitary lifestyle, music composition routines, and interactions with collaborators like Gaeko.[37] His episodes, including those in 2023 and 2024, featured segments on home-cooked meals, family visits, and multitasking during chores, contributing to renewed popularity for the long-running show.[38][39] As a judge, he participated in JTBC's Sing Again Season 3 in 2023 as a junior judge across 13 episodes, evaluating unknown singers' performances.[40] He reprised the role in Sing Again Season 4 in 2025, alongside judges like Lim Jae-beom and Taeyeon.[41] In reality competition formats, Code Kunst appeared as a regular cast member in Netflix's Zombieverse: New Blood (Season 2), released November 19, 2024, where he navigated zombie survival scenarios with celebrities including Dex and Taeyeon, leveraging his analytical skills as a self-described science enthusiast.[42][43] Other notable appearances include main hosting duties on Witch Hunt 2023 for 8 episodes, guest spots on shows like Unexpected (episode 5, 2023) and Running Man, and co-hosting the Mnet music talk show Live Wire starting in 2025 with Jung Jae-hyung, focusing on live performances and industry discussions.[40][44] He also featured in JTBC's My Sibling's Romance in 2024.[45] In 2025, he joined as a regular member on Good Day.[40]| Year | Program | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Show Me the Money 777 | Judge and producer |
| 2019 | High School Rapper 3 | Mentor |
| 2020 | Show Me the Money 9 | Judge |
| 2021 | Show Me the Money 10 | Judge and producer |
| 2022–present | I Live Alone | Regular cast |
| 2023 | Sing Again Season 3 | Junior judge |
| 2023 | Witch Hunt 2023 | Main host |
| 2024 | Zombieverse: New Blood | Regular cast member |
| 2024 | My Sibling's Romance | Cast |
| 2025 | Sing Again Season 4 | Judge |
| 2025 | Live Wire | Co-host |
| 2025 | Good Day | Regular member |
Artistry
Musical style and production
Code Kunst's musical style is defined by an eclectic fusion of hip-hop, R&B, blues, soul, rock, and trap, emphasizing intricate arrangements and versatile R&B elements infused with raw, honest storytelling.[46] His compositions often incorporate soft rock and acoustic textures alongside tense, atmospheric loops, creating a narrative-driven sound that prioritizes emotional depth over conventional hit formulas.[47][46] In his production approach, Code Kunst utilizes signature vocal chopping and flawless looping techniques to layer samples and vocals, blending them with subtle instrumentals like flute refrains and guitar riffs for a cohesive, immersive texture.[46] He integrates thrumming percussion and dynamic drum patterns to drive tracks, as demonstrated in "Fire Water" (2017), a melancholic collaboration with G.Soul and Tablo featuring layered flute melodies and percussive tension.[46] This method extends to albums like Muggle's Mansion (2017), his 17-track project with diverse collaborators, and People (2020), where he shifted toward brighter, more positive sonic palettes while maintaining a focus on authentic emotional narratives through selective partnerships with artists like Lee Hi and Jay Park.[46][47]Influences and artistic philosophy
Code Kunst identifies Mac Miller as his foremost musical influence, crediting the late rapper's authentic emotional depth for shaping his approach to production and songwriting.[48] He has also expressed admiration for artists including FKA Twigs and SZA, whose experimental and soulful styles inform his eclectic sound.[48] His work blends hip-hop with blues, rock, soul, and trap elements, drawing from broader black music traditions and pop sensibilities honed through collaborations.[47] Central to his artistic philosophy is a refusal to prioritize commercial hits over personal narrative, as he has articulated: "I don’t want to give up on my narrative to make a hit song."[47] Code Kunst conceives of his career not as discrete albums but as a singular "full album" encompassing his life experiences, focusing on capturing immediate emotions rather than retrospective curation.[47] Music functions as an emotional refuge amid personal challenges, with the intent to evoke comfort for listeners—"hope my music makes you feel at home," as reflected in his public statements.[7] This ethos aligns with his stage name's origin from the German term "Kunst," encountered in his mother's book, symbolizing a dedication to art as a means of preserving fleeting feelings and temporal moments.[7] His creative discipline underscores this philosophy: since debuting with the 2014 album Novel, he has composed roughly 1,500 songs, releasing only about 250 to ensure quality and alignment with his vision.[48]Philanthropy
Notable contributions
In March 2025, Code Kunst donated 20 million South Korean won (approximately $14,500 USD) to support recovery efforts for victims of wildfires in North Gyeongsang, South Gyeongsang, and Ulsan provinces.[49] This contribution aligned with similar donations from other Korean celebrities responding to the disaster, which affected thousands of residents and caused extensive property damage.[50] In June 2020, amid global protests following the death of George Floyd, Code Kunst contributed an undisclosed amount to the Official George Floyd Memorial Fund. He stated on Instagram that Black music had profoundly influenced his artistic development, motivating the donation as a gesture of solidarity.[51] In April 2025, Code Kunst organized a giveaway event donating goods valued at 1 million South Korean won (approximately $705 USD), including clothing, sneakers, vinyl records, and albums, to students at his alma mater through a lucky draw. This initiative reflected his background as a former top student and aimed to support educational peers.[9]Personal life
Relationships and family
Code Kunst maintains a private personal life, with limited public details about his family. He has a younger brother, and the siblings share a close bond, as demonstrated by Code Kunst's involvement in his brother's wedding preparations in early 2025, including reminiscing over childhood photos and exchanging heartfelt stories during a family visit.[52][53] In terms of romantic relationships, Code Kunst has been in a long-term partnership with a non-celebrity woman since approximately 2016, marking about nine years together as of January 2025.[53] The couple's connection reportedly stems from mutual interests in fashion and music, and his partner works as an office worker.[54] He has publicly denied marriage rumors that circulated in May 2024, confirming no plans for matrimony at that time.[55] In March 2025, Code Kunst expressed a personal aspiration to marry and start a family, stating it as a common desire while reflecting on his current relationship.[54] No children are known from this or any prior relationships.Military service and health
Code Kunst fulfilled his mandatory military service in the Republic of Korea Army, assigned to the 6th Infantry Division, where he attained the rank of sergeant prior to discharge.[2] His service occurred in his early twenties, before he pursued music professionally.[48] During enlistment, he endured physical beatings from superiors, attributed to his prominent ears, as he recounted in a 2023 interview with YouTuber Kian84; he emphasized that such incidents were not uncommon in his unit but did not derail his overall service.[56][57] This experience, while harsh, fostered his determination, as restricted access to desired music intensified his passion for production, leading him to commit to a music career upon completion.[47] He was discharged before releasing his debut album Novel in 2014, marking the transition to full-time artistry.[48] No public records indicate exemptions or significant health complications during or after service that affected his obligations or career trajectory.Discography
Studio albums
Novel is the debut studio album by Code Kunst, released on April 7, 2014, through Luminant Entertainment.[58] The album consists of 12 tracks and marks his initial foray into blending hip-hop production with experimental elements.[58] Crumple, his second studio album, followed on April 28, 2015, initially self-released under Luminant Entertainment before later associations with other labels.[59] Featuring 20 tracks, it peaked at number 34 on South Korea's Gaon Album Chart, showcasing expanded collaborations and a denser sound palette.[60] The third album, Muggles' Mansion, was issued on February 28, 2017, via Highgrnd with distribution by Genie Music. Spanning 15 tracks over 53 minutes, it incorporates a wider array of guest artists from both major and independent scenes, emphasizing eclectic production.[61] PEOPLE, released April 2, 2020, under AOMG, represents his fourth studio effort with 16 tracks clocking in at 55 minutes.[62] Distributed by Kakao M, the album features prominent rappers like C Jamm and Simon Dominic, focusing on pop rap and contemporary R&B influences.[63] His fifth and most recent studio album, Remember Archive, came out on March 16, 2023, again through AOMG with Kakao Entertainment handling distribution.[64] The 55-minute release includes collaborations with artists such as Gaeko and MINO, continuing his signature sample-heavy, genre-blending approach.[65]| Title | Release date | Label | Tracks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Novel | April 7, 2014 | Luminant Entertainment | 12 | 40 min [58] |
| Crumple | April 28, 2015 | Luminant Entertainment | 20 | N/A [59] |
| Muggles' Mansion | February 28, 2017 | Highgrnd (Genie Music) | 15 | 53:05 |
| PEOPLE | April 2, 2020 | AOMG (Kakao M) | 16 | 55 min [62] |
| Remember Archive | March 16, 2023 | AOMG (Kakao Entertainment) | N/A | 55:09 [64] |
Extended plays
Hear Things is the debut extended play by Code Kunst, released independently on June 28, 2013.[66] The eight-track project features hip-hop production with collaborations including BewhY on "Haze" and C Jamm on "1-2", marking early associations with prominent South Korean rappers.[4] It followed the lead single "Lemonade" featuring Blnk-Time, establishing his style of sample-based beats and instrumental introspection.[67]| No. | Title | Featured artist(s) | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Intro. Excelsior | – | – |
| 2 | Advance | – | – |
| 3 | Coex | – | – |
| 4 | Haze | BewhY | – |
| 5 | 1-2 | C Jamm | – |
| 6 | Indifferent | – | – |
| 7 | Lemonade | Blnk-Time | – |
| 8 | Ya | – | – |
Singles and production credits
Code Kunst has released several standalone singles outside of his albums and extended plays. "Rain Bird", featuring Tablo and Colde, was issued on June 9, 2018, as a precursor to his subsequent full-length work.[69] "KnoCK", featuring Yerin Baek, followed on March 19, 2020, under AOMG.[60][5] Additional singles include "RECONNECT" in 2020, and in 2022, "Be Ready", "The Ball Is Round", and "Take Me".[60][70] Beyond his own releases, Code Kunst maintains extensive production credits across the Korean hip-hop and R&B landscape, with involvement in over 200 performances as producer, arranger, composer, or songwriter.[71] Notable examples include tracks for pH-1 such as "DRUGGED2THRILLS" and "HAD I KNOWN"; "GO HIGH" (featuring Woo, CHANGMO, and The Quiett) for Lee Young Ji; and contributions to Gaeko's "Redingray".[72][71] He has also produced for artists including DPR Live, Lee Hi, and Nucksal, often blending hip-hop elements with experimental production.[73] Specific highlights encompass "Good Day" for Paloalto, which reached number one on multiple charts in 2019, demonstrating his compositional range.| Selected Production Credits | Artist | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DRUGGED2THRILLS | pH-1 | 2023 | Producer[72] |
| GO HIGH (feat. Woo, CHANGMO, The Quiett) | Lee Young Ji | 2023 | Producer[72] |
| Good Day | Paloalto | 2019 | Producer; chart-topping single |
| Redingray | Gaeko | Unknown | Producer[71] |
Filmography
Television shows
Code Kunst has primarily appeared on South Korean television in music competition programs, where his role as a producer and composer has positioned him as a judge or mentor for emerging hip-hop and rap talents. He debuted on such formats as a judge on Show Me the Money 777 in 2018, partnering with Paloalto under the AOMG and Hi-Lite team.[74] In 2019, he served as a judge on High School Rapper 3, evaluating high school contestants' performances.[1] He continued in this capacity on Show Me the Money 9 in 2020 as both judge and producer, and on Show Me the Money 10 in 2021.[75] [76]| Year | Program | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Show Me the Money 9 | Judge and producer |
| 2021 | Show Me the Money 10 | Judge |
Web shows
Code Kunst appeared in the Netflix reality dating series Change Days (Korean: 변화의 날들), which premiered on March 5, 2021, and features real-life couples at romantic retreats deciding whether to reconcile or pursue new partners amid temptations. He participated across multiple episodes, contributing as a cast member in the show's exploration of relationship dynamics. In 2024, Code Kunst joined the cast of Zombieverse: New Blood (Korean: 좀비버스 시즌2), the second season of Netflix's zombie apocalypse survival variety series, announced on May 13, 2024, and released on November 19, 2024. The program places celebrities, including Code Kunst described as a hip-hop artist with scientific interests, in simulated zombie outbreak scenarios requiring strategy and teamwork to survive. His role highlighted resourcefulness in high-stakes challenges, aligning with the series' blend of comedy and horror elements.[79]Music video appearances
Code Kunst appeared as a cameo in the music video for Lee Hi's "Red Lipstick" (featuring Yoon Mirae), released on September 9, 2021, alongside fellow AOMG affiliates including Jay Park, Simon Dominic, GRAY, and Loco in an elevator scene.[80][81][82]| Year | Title | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Red Lipstick (feat. Yoon Mirae) | Lee Hi |
Awards and nominations
Code Kunst received a nomination for Best Rap Album at the Korean Music Awards in 2015 for his album Crumple. He was nominated for Best Producer at the Korean Hip-Hop Awards in 2019.[5] In 2021, he won Producer of the Year at the Korean Hip-Hop Awards.[83] [6] At the 2022 MBC Broadcasting Entertainment Awards, Code Kunst won the Male Rookie Award. He received the Reality Category Popularity Award at the 2023 MBC Broadcasting Entertainment Awards. In 2024, Code Kunst was nominated for Best Male Entertainer at the Blue Dragon Series Awards.[84]| Year | Award | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Korean Music Awards | Best Rap Album (Crumple) | Nominated |
| 2019 | Korean Hip-Hop Awards | Best Producer | Nominated |
| 2021 | Korean Hip-Hop Awards | Producer of the Year | Won[83][6] |
| 2022 | MBC Broadcasting Entertainment Awards | Male Rookie Award | Won |
| 2023 | MBC Broadcasting Entertainment Awards | Reality Category Popularity Award | Won |
| 2024 | Blue Dragon Series Awards | Best Male Entertainer | Nominated[84] |
