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Jay Park
Jay Park
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Jay Park (born April 25, 1987), Korean name Park Jae-beom (박재범), is an American rapper, singer-songwriter and dancer based in South Korea.[4] He is a member of the Seattle-based b-boy crew Art of Movement (AOM), and founder and former CEO of the independent hip hop record labels AOMG and H1ghr Music, as well as the founder of the record label More Vision.[5] Park returned to South Korea in June 2010 for the filming of Hype Nation,[6] and in July, Park signed a contract with SidusHQ, one of the largest entertainment agencies in South Korea.[7] Rebranding and re-debuting as both a solo singer and a rapper, Park has participated in the underground hip hop culture scene in South Korea, a rarity for both active and former K-Pop idols.[8]

Key Information

Known for his charismatic performances and stage presence,[9][10] Park has been described as a "born entertainer" by Korean pop singer Patti Kim,[11][unreliable source?] and The New York Times quoted the president of digital music distributor DFSB Kollective illustrating Park as "not just an artist, but also his own PR agent, fan club president, and TV network."[12] An influential figure in the Korean hip hop scene, Park has been described as the "scene stalwart" of Korean R&B,[13] and has been credited as one of the main figures responsible for the increased commercial acceptance and mainstream popularization of K-hip hop in South Korea.[14]

Early life

[edit]

Born in Edmonds, Washington, in the Seattle metropolitan area, Park showed great interest in hip hop music and breakdancing at a young age. Park attended Edmonds-Woodway, where he spent most of his break and lunch times practicing dance with friends.[15][16] Park started listening to hip hop and rap music in his early teens, and spent time learning and writing raps himself during high school.[17] In 2003, Park became one of the first members of the Seattle-based b-boy crew Art of Movement (AOM). Often skipping classes to participate in b-boy competitions, Park would have continuous clashes with his mother regarding his lack of interest in academics and potential higher education. In 2004, Park's mother, seeing how her son spent more time breakdancing than studying, suggested he try out for a locally advertised talent audition, which was organized by South Korean conglomerate JYP Entertainment.[18] With his family financially struggling at the time, Park auditioned for the program, believing it to be a contest where the winner would receive a monetary prize reward.[19] Unbeknownst to Park, the success of his audition would eventually lead to him being officially contacted and selected by JYP Entertainment to be part of a Korean boy band as an idol. In January 2005, Park was brought to South Korea to receive training in dancing, rapping, singing, and the Korean language under the strict supervision of JYPE.[20] Park eventually completed his university education at Dankook University.[21]

Career

[edit]

2008–2009: 2PM and MySpace controversy

[edit]
2PM during a press conference for Wonder Girls The First Wonder Live In Bangkok in February 2009

Park first appeared through Mnet's Hot Blood Men, a documentary-style reality program that showed the future members of One Day, split as idol groups 2AM and 2PM, in training. Park, finishing at the top spot with the most fan votes, became the leader of 2PM.[22] On September 4, 2008, 2PM debuted with the song "10 Out of 10" (Korean: 10점 만점에 10점; Revised Romanization: Ship Jeom Manjeome Ship Jeom) on the music program M Countdown after the release of their first mini-album, Hottest Time of the Day, a few days prior.[23] Aside from 2PM's music activities, Park created the song "Jeong" () with Yeeun of the Wonder Girls for the original soundtrack of the television drama Conspiracy in the Court, and featured on V.O.S's "To Luv...".[24] He also participated in special stage performances, such as Navi's "Heart Damage" (마음이 다쳐서; Revised Romanization: Maeumi Dachyeoseo) on May 3, 2009,[25] and K.Will's "One Drop per Second" (Korean: 1초에 한방울; Revised Romanization: Il Choe Hanbangul) on June 20, 2009.[26] In addition to Idol Show and Wild Bunny with fellow 2PM members, he also became a regular cast member in several variety programs, including Star King and Introducing a Star's Friend.[27] In August 2009, he and Kara band member, Nicole Jung, became the new hosts for a cultural variety show called Nodaji.[28]

On September 4, 2009, unfavorable comments about Korea were found on Park's personal Myspace account from 2005. The comments, written in English to a friend, were translated by Korean media and quickly spread across hundreds of news articles. Park expressed deep remorse and shame over his forgotten words and issued an official apology, explained the unhappiness that he experienced during his early days as a trainee in an unfamiliar country where he lacked family, the ability to easily communicate, and an understanding of the culture.[29] Outraged protesters demanded that Park should be removed from 2PM, but JYP CEO Park Jin-young on September 7, 2009, said Jay Park would continue as a part of the group.[30] The following day, Jay Park announced on his official fancafe that he would be leaving the group to calm the situation and return to his hometown of Seattle. He also apologized to the other 2PM members and promised to "come back a better person".[31] Park Jin-young then confirmed that 2PM would continue as a six-member group.[32] Due to the sensitive topic of Jay Park's departure, all 2PM members were withdrawn from their regular appearances on variety shows,[33] and the final episode of their reality show, Wild Bunny, was postponed indefinitely.[34] Park's vocals would not be removed from the older songs he promoted with 2PM, but he would be absent from the newer tracks. The remaining six members of 2PM re-filmed their music video for "Heartbeat" without Park on October 31, 2009.[35]

The title of 2PM's first official album 1:59PM symbolized Park's absence, according to the six remaining members.[36] Through their acceptance speeches at year-end awards shows for "Again & Again", the members thanked Jay Park and reiterated their wish for his return. At the Mnet Asian Music Awards, the group paid homage to him during their performance of "Again & Again" with a spotlight shown over his usual position in the dance formation and his lines left unsung.[37][38]

2010: YouTube career and solo debut

[edit]

Soon after Park returned to the United States, the South Korean public changed their perspective on the matter when they realized that his Myspace messages had been severely mistranslated and taken out of context [citation needed], in addition to strong fan support for Park's return.[39] Park was seen at b-boy battles with fellow Art of Movement members during his time in Seattle. However, on February 25, with Park's comeback looking more and more likely, JYP suddenly announced that Jay Park's contract with them had been terminated, citing a separate "personal mistake" that Park had made in 2009.[40] JYP would make reference to this unknown event several times in 2010, but would never elaborate on any details. This termination had been agreed by all six members of 2PM and led to fan boycotts on 2PM-endorsed products. Protests for Park's return to the group began to take place, not only in South Korea, but internationally as well.[41] Various Jay Park-dedicated forums and fansites all over the world organized silent protests and flash dance mobs.[39] Fans also hired a plane with a banner showing "J, what time is it now?" to fly over Seattle, and was broadcast on Seattle-based radio stations.[42][43][unreliable source?]

On several occasions, Park was the number one trending topic on Twitter, even topping the Oscars on March 8.[44] Park's fans revealed plans to release a self-produced album in his honor on March 27 to commemorate the 200th day anniversary of his departure from Korea.[45] However, because the album had been in preparation since January and public opinion on 2PM had since changed, the fans decided it would be in the best interest to not release the CD, and instead, mailed 10–20 copies to Seattle, Park's hometown.[46]

Park created his own YouTube channel on March 15, "jayparkaom", with the first upload being his own version of "Nothin' on You", which went viral and reached over 2,000,000 views in less than 24 hours.[47] In Korea, the original song by B.o.B and Bruno Mars topped the Cyworld music chart in a matter of hours upon the video's release.[48] "Nothin' on You" earned $300,000 in sales through the effect of Park's video.[49] On June 15, 2010, B.o.B released "Nothin' on You" featuring Park, in South Korea, where he replaces Bruno Mars' vocals. His YouTube cover helped contribute to much of the song's success in Korea, with more than 5 million copies sold.[50] Park subsequently thanked his fans for their support and continued to urge them not to hate remaining 2PM members.[51]

Park and some members of his b-boy crew, Art of Movement

He appeared with fellow Art of Movement members at an annual Korean-American festival event called Project Korea III: KSA Cinderella Story at Rutgers University, New Jersey, on April 3, along with Ailee and Clara C.[52] Videos of the event were uploaded onto internet portal sites, where footage of Park acting as an MC and dancing to Beyoncé's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" on stage drew much positive interest.[53] On April 24, Dumbfoundead released a free collaboration track featuring Park and Clara Chung on his website, titled "Clouds".[54]

Los Angeles-based entertainment attorney Ned Sherman, CEO of Digital Media Wire, announced on May 28 that he was representing Park as his legal representative.[55][56] Sherman and his wife Tinzar reached out to Park, after seeing Park's story and feeling bad about what happened to him during the MySpace controversy.[57][58] The Shermans and Park worked on a lot of projects together, including his movie deal for Hype Nation, an endorsement deal with dENiZEN, Levi Strauss & Co.'s new brand, and others.[59][60]

Park returned to Korea on June 18 at Incheon International Airport, to the biggest crowd ever seen at the airport, for the filming of Hype Nation.[6] "Park Jaebeom has returned" became the biggest headline in Korea that day, and "JayIsBack" shot up immediately on the trending topics on Twitter on June 18 at 9:30 AM GMT.[61] Pictures of Park in Hype Nation were released on July 2,[62] and Park was able to meet with the Korean media for interviews for the first time, talking about his current activities.[63] It was also revealed that his single "Demon" would be included in Hype Nation's original soundtrack.[64]

It was reported on July 8 that Park would sign a contract with SidusHQ for his domestic Korean activities in terms of acting and singing;[65] his management stated that he planned to redebut as a rookie artist,[7] and the contract with SidusHQ was finalized on July 16.[66] Park released an EP titled Count on Me (믿어줄래; Revised Romanization: Mideojullae) containing three tracks, including a rearranged Korean version of "Nothin' on You", on July 13.[67] The English and Korean lyrics were written by Park himself.[68] The EP sold 21,989 physical copies on the first day of release, coming in at number one in sales and number seven in the overall ranking of albums released from January to July 13. Without any promotion on music shows, more than 41,316 copies sold, and the EP placed at number 32 on Gaon's year end chart,[69] earning Park approximately 700 million.[70]

Park began working with singer, producer, and fellow AOM member, Cha Cha Malone, releasing "Bestie" in both Korean and English, and a duet titled "Speechless".[71] Also in 2010, Park began collaborations and forming close ties with rappers Dok2 and The Quiett of Illionaire Records, titling the partnership "AOM & 1llionaire". On September 5, Park participated in the 3rd International Secret Agents Los Angeles concert held in Cerritos, California, together with well-known YouTube celebrities such as Ryan Higa, KevJumba, AJ Rafael, Alyssa Bernal, Far East Movement, and America's Best Dance Crew Season 5 champions, Poreotix. Park's performance drew many positive responses.[72][unreliable source?][73][unreliable source?]

Park was cast for the 2011 Korean movie Mr. Idol, starring alongside friend and fellow SidusHQ actor, Kim Soo-ro.[74] Park was also one of the performers, alongside SE7EN, Taeyang and Musiq Soulchild, at the Seoul Soul Festival held at the War Memorial of Korea on October 10. Park and Musiq Soulchild also performed the latter's song "Love" at the festival.[75] Park held a charity concert in December called the "White Love Party Concert", with Supreme Team and Dok2 making appearances.[76][unreliable source?] Park and Art of Movement performed at "Fever Seoul Live" alongside Dumbfoundead, David Choi, and several international b-boys.[77][unreliable source?]

In December, Park was named as Naver's most searched solo singer of the year.[78]

2011: Take a Deeper Look and rise as a solo artist

[edit]

On January 6, Park was announced as the winner in "Best Web Video" Category around the globe for his song "Nothin' on You" at the Mashable Awards, and was also nominated in the "Must Follow Personality" category, finishing second.[79] At the beginning of February, Park was featured in two music videos of girl group, 5dolls, called "Lips Stains" and "It's You". Park was chosen to be the sole opener for Ne-Yo in his first concert in Seoul for the "2011 Hyundai Mall 40th Anniversary Concert" held on March 29. He also cooperated with Ne-Yo for a charity event for children dreaming to become musicians on March 28 at the Dream Academy in Seoul.[80] On March 28, Park was a finalist and received the most votes in the special category "Connecting People Award", a joint venture between Shorty Awards and Nokia. Park also was a finalist in the "Celebrity" category at the same event.[81]

Park released his first Korean mini-album, Take a Deeper Look, in April, with the lead single "Abandoned".[82] Take a Deeper Look debuted at number three in the Billboard World Album Charts and ranked number 26 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums Chart.[83] Park also made his debut as a solo artist on Korean music shows such as KBS' Music Bank, Mnet's M Countdown, MBC's Music Core and SBS' Inkigayo, returning for the first time in two years. Park made history as the first artist crowned winner at a debut stage, as he won Music Bank on May 6 and won again a week later on May 13.[84][85]

On August 6, Park participated in his first KBS Immortal Songs 2 episode, performing "Candy" by Korean boy band H.O.T. with its leader Moon Hee-joon.[86] Park followed up with his own R&B rendition of "Aemo" by Kim Soo-hee on the next episode, which was well received.[87] On his third episode of Immortal Songs 2, Park performed "Tell me the Truth" by Jinusean with Solbi, Jang Hyuk and Kim Soo-ro, and was the victor for that episode, allowing him to choose the order for the next episode.[88] For his fourth episode, Park again made his own R&B version of "Feel Good Day" by Kim Wan-sun.[89] On his fifth episode, Park performed a remixed version of "Look Back at Me" by Deux with a b-boy dance break.[90] On his sixth episode and final appearance on the show, he performed "Dear, Do Not Change" by Nam Jin and won the trophy for his last performance,[91] before leaving the show to focus on his next album's preparations.[92] It was revealed that Park would return to Immortal Songs 2 for a special episode "King of Kings" with other singers that have claimed the number one spot. This special episode was recorded on November 7 at the KBS Open Hall and aired on November 19.[93]

The single "Demon" was released on September 5 through various Korean digital music websites.[94] The music video was also released on the same day, and Park apologized for its low quality, saying he had no control over the release of both the music video and the song.[95] "Demon" peaked at number 14 on the Gaon Chart[96] and at number 8 on the iTunes R&B/Soul Chart.[97]

Park on the cover of KoreAm for January 2012

Park returned to the US on October 1 to perform at the International Secret Agents Los Angeles concert.[98] On October 29, Park delivered a performance to over 25,000 fans as he headlined the MTV EXIT (End Exploitation and Trafficking) Live in Manila Concert held at the SM Mall of Asia. The concert also featured Californian alternative rock band, Evaline, and international singer-songwriter, Jason Mraz.[99]

Park released his single "Girlfriend", along with the music video via his YouTube channel on November 3.[100] Park performed his single on the same day at the 2011 Style Icon Awards, following a recording of tvN's Taxi.[101] The movie Mr. Idol in which Park starred in was also released on November 3.[102] The single peaked at number 28 on the Gaon chart.[103] Park released Part 1 of his first full-length Korean album, New Breed, with the lead single "Star" (; Revised Romanization: Byeol) on December 28.[104] "Star" peaked at number one on various sites like Bugs, Olleh Music, and Soribada while being on the top of other charts of music sites.[105] The first part of New Breed also reached the top of charts of various music sites including Olleh Music, Bugs, Soribada and Daum.[104] "Star" peaked at number 17 on the Gaon Chart.[106]

2012: New Breed and Fresh Air: Breathe It

[edit]

Park received the Disk Bonsang for his mini album Take a Deeper Look on January 11, on the first day of the 26th Golden Disk Awards, which was held in Osaka. He was the only solo artist to receive the Disk Bonsang among the other Bonsang winners.[107] On January 18, he received the Popular Artist Award of the Asia Model Awards, which was held in Seoul.[108][109][110]

Several songs composed and written by Park for other artists were released in 2012. Jay Park produced and composed a song with Cha Cha Malone for Korean-American singer Brian Joo, titled "Can't Stop".[111][112][113] Park wrote the Korean version of the song, while Joo wrote the English Version.[112][113] Park co-wrote the song "4U" for the idol group U-Kiss at the request of main vocalist Soohyun, a long-time friend and fellow former JYP Entertainment trainee, and it was included in U-Kiss's sixth EP DoraDora.[114][115] Park also produced and composed a song for the girl group Tiny-G, entitled "Polaris"; the lyrics were written by actress Lee Si-young. They worked together through MBC's Music and Lyrics.[116][117] On July 3, Korean pop singer Younha released her fourth Korean album, Supersonic, including the track "Driver" written by Park. He also featured in the song, providing rap verses.[118]

He released his first full-length Korean album, New Breed, in February, with the lead single "Know Your Name".[119] The album reached number 1 twice on the Gaon Weekly album chart in South Korea,[120][121] and also reached number 1 on the Hanteo Weekly chart by selling more than 80,000 copies offline in 10 days.[122][123] New Breed debuted at number 4 on the Billboard World Album Charts and ranked number 16 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums Chart.[124] Park made his comeback stage on Korean music shows on February 16. He won Music Bank on February 24, one week after his comeback.[125] On April 27, Park began Asian promotions for the Asian version release of his album New Breed, and visited 5 countries: Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan. On April 28, Jay performed at the 2012 Star Awards in Singapore.[126] On June 13, he released the Japan editions of his albums Take a Deeper Look and New Breed through Universal J. The regular edition of New Breed includes the English version of "I Love You" and the acoustic version of "Know Your Name" as bonus tracks.[127]

Jay Park held his first solo concert, New Breed Live in Seoul, on March 3 at the Olympic Hall of Seoul Olympic Park.[128] Park successfully held a second concert New Breed Asia Tour in Seoul in Seoul on August 18 at the Olympic Hall of Seoul Olympic Park.[129] Park was selected as the 2012 R-16 Korea ambassador by the Korea Tourism Organization on April 23.[126]

He headlined the APAHM tour organized by Verizon in the US in May, including concerts in Washington, D.C., New York City, San Francisco and Los Angeles.[130] On May 16, Park released his first mixtape, Fresh Air: Breathe It,[131] containing songs he performed for the tour.[132] The mixtape was certified Gold by Datpiff within a month since its release, meaning it was downloaded over 100,000 times. Jay Park became the first artist of Asian origin to achieve this result on Datpiff.[133]

Park was the closing act at the MTV World Stage Live in Malaysia, along with Canadian pop singer Justin Bieber, Korean girl band Kara, and Malaysian singer Mizz Nina, on July 14. Park also performed his song "Carefree",[134] which was included on the New Breed Red Edition repackaged album, and also showed his self-choreographed dance break to "Dirty Bass" by Far East Movement featuring Tyga,[9] which he later shared on YouTube.[135] Park also held his own concerts in Sydney and Melbourne at the end of September 2012.[136] Also in July, Park started a web series, Jay Park TV, through his YouTube channel, filmed and edited by Hep, Park's friend and fellow Art of Movement member.[137][unreliable source?] The web series shows Park's daily life with his friends, behind-the-scenes of concerts and filming, and the fun and games that he gets up to.

In August, Jay Park released a music video for "New Breed", from the album of the same name, which was recorded during the album's photo shoot with Park featuring Rick Genest-inspired make-up.[138] Park also uploaded a practice video to "I Love You", showing the complex choreography that he and Prepix members were practising for his upcoming concert.[139] On August 22, Park was announced to be a fixed panel member on MBC's Come to Play, along with Kim Eung-soo and Kwon Oh-joong.[140][unreliable source?] He joined as a part of a new corner on the show, titled the "Trueman Show".[141] MBC suddenly axed the show after several months, with no prior warning to the cast nor producers.

Later in September, Park performed for the first time in Australia, successfully holding concerts in Sydney and Melbourne.[142] Park returned to Immortal Songs 2 for a "King of Kings" special in October, where he performed "The Woman in Rain" by Shin Jung-hyeon. In a flying visit to Los Angeles, Jay Park made a last-minute appearance in a YouTube sketch by David So, which parodies Wong Fu Productions' The Last.[143]

In November, he featured on "If You Love Me", a digital single by NS Yoon-G. Although Park does not make an appearance in the official music video, he performed on stage with Yoon-G on music shows, with the first being Mnet's M Countdown, and also makes an appearance in the behind-the-scenes music video, showing NS Yoon-G and Park in the studio recording the song.[144] A practice video of the choreography was released soon after.[145] Park was the host of the December 1 episode of Saturday Night Live Korea, garnering attention for his R-rated skits, acting, and a parody music video of Eminem's "Love the Way You Lie", bringing in the highest ratings of the season for the show.[146]

2013: SNL Korea, Expansion in Asia, and founding of hip hop label AOMG

[edit]
Park accepting the award for Musician of the Year at the Korean Music Awards, 2013

On February 6, 2013, it was announced that Jay Park would be joining the cast of Saturday Night Live Korea, having previously hosted an episode in late 2012.[147] On Valentine's Day, February 14, Park released the song "Appetizer" alongside a music video. The track was produced by friend and fellow Art of Movement member, Cha Cha Malone.[148] On the first episode of Saturday Night Live Korea, Park garnered attention for his skit parodying the film Holiday with Korean actor and host of the episode, Choi Min-soo, and for his ad lib during a skit with Shin Dong-yup and Kim Seul-gi.[149][150] on February 25, Mizz Nina's single "Around the World" featuring Jay Park was officially released. The song had been in the works since Park and Mizz Nina had performed at MTV World Stage Live in Malaysia 2012.[151][152] On February 28, Park received the "Musician of the Year" award at the 2013 Korean Music Awards, and his album New Breed was nominated in the "Best R&B and Soul album" category.[153][154]

Park featured on the cover of the March edition of Men's Health Korea magazine, and the cover was subsequently chosen by staff as the best in the magazine's 7-year history.[155] On March 28, it was revealed that Park would be rejoining the cast of KBS' Immortal Songs 2 for a third time.[156]

Following on from the success of the Jay Park's March edition of Men's Health Korea, the same cover was used for the April edition of Men's Health China, which was also the magazine's 10th anniversary edition, and included large promotional posters across the country.[157][158] In collaboration with Ustream Korea, Park held an official livestreamed event titled "Fan & Music Live" on April 2,[159] and revealed the titles of the 3 songs from his upcoming single release; "Joah" (Korean: 좋아; Revised Romanization: Joha), "1 Hunnit" (사실이야; Revised Romanization: Sasiriya), and "Welcome". The title track, "Joah", was revealed to be a mellow feel-good song, and was produced by Cha Cha Malone, with instrumentals provided by Saturday Night Live Korea in-session band Common Ground, "1 Hunnit" was a rap track featuring Dok2, and "Welcome" was provocative R&B track.[160] On April 10, Park released the single album "Joah", along with the music video for the title track.[161] The music video was filmed in Park's hometown of Seattle, and starred Korean actress Clara Lee.[161][162] On April 16, Park appeared on SBS' Hwasin – Controller of the Heart, the sequel of Strong Heart. On Park's 26th birthday, April 25, Park released a music video for the song "Welcome". On the April 27 episode of Immortal Songs 2, Park performed Lee Moon-sae's "Sunset Glow" with R&B singer and friend Crush.[163][unreliable source?] Park's skit on the April 27 episode of Saturday Night Live with Gayoon of 4Minute gained attention for Park's character mistakenly saying inappropriate and sexual words in Korean, and featured a return of Park's in-character ad lib as the camera's failed to cut away at the end of the skit.[164]

On May 3, it was revealed that Park would be participating on the soundtrack of M. Night Shyamalan's 2013 American science-fiction thriller film, After Earth, having been personally contacted by Will Smith and Jaden Smith.[165] Produced by Cha Cha Malone, the song "I Like 2 Party" was the ending theme for the Korean version of the film and was written and composed by Park himself.[166][unreliable source?][167] On May 7, Park attended the After Earth red carpet premiere in Korea alongside Will and Jaden Smith.[168] On May 11, Immortal Songs 2's 100th episode, Park performed "Everyday Day With You" by Deulgukhwa, remixed with Park's latest single at the time, "Joah".[169] Later that month on May 30, a song titled "Rude Girl" by Kim Seul-gi and Jay Park for was released for Korean drama She is Wow.

In early July, Jay Park renewed his contract with SidusHQ after much public speculation of him signing with other record labels. He was to perform at the Hennessy Artistry event early in July in Guangzhou, China, alongside B.o.B, but the event was cancelled at the last moment due to technical difficulties.[170] On July 10, Park released a four-track EP, I Like 2 Party, alongside the music video for the title track, which was filmed in Los Angeles. On November 30, Park served as the emcee for the Red Bull BC One.

2014–2017: Evolution, Worldwide and Everything You Wanted

[edit]

On September 1, 2014, Jay Park released his second full-length album, Evolution.[171] With features and production from many of his AOMG labelmates such as Simon Dominic and Gray, the album presented tributes to Michael Jackson and R&B throwback ballads in its 17 tracks.[172] In 2015, Jay Park participated as a judge on Mnet's rap competition program Show Me the Money 4. During the same year, Park released an extensive list of songs including "Lotto", "All I Got Time For", "On It", "Want It", "Mommae" and "Sex Trip". Park released "My Last" featuring Loco and Gray on July 17, 2015, alongside a music video.[173][unreliable source?] On November 5, 2015, Jay Park released his third official studio album, Worldwide. The album was released alongside lead single "You Know" (뻔하잖아), which featured Okasian and a music video. Directed by the production company Tiger Cave, the music video starred 4Minute's HyunA and featured cameos from other Korean talents such as rappers Reddy and Ugly Duck, among others. The hip hop project contained a total of 18 tracks and contained some of the songs Park had previously released in the year, such as "Mommae". The album also debuted at number five on Billboard's World Albums chart. Soon after the album's release, Park released music videos for the tracks "Bo$$", "Worldwide x Want It" and "In this B*tch x My".

On October 20, 2016, Park released his fourth solo album Everything You Wanted. The bilingual project contained 19 tracks and featured R&B songs in both English and Korean.[174] Upon release the album debuted at number three on Billboard's World Albums chart. On October 21, 2016, Far East Movement released their album Identity including the track "SXWME", which features MNEK and Jay Park.[175] On July 20, 2017, it was announced that Jay-Z's Roc Nation had signed Park for his activities in the US, marking the first ever Asian American artist on the record label.[176] Later that same month, it was announced that Park would be replacing Melanie C and Vanness Wu as one of the judges on the second season of Asia's Got Talent, alongside Anggun and David Foster.[177] In 2017, Jay Park founded record label H1ghr Music with producer Cha Cha Malone, with an aim to bring both Seattle and South Korean talent to the hip hop forefront.[178] Currently, the label houses American and South Korean artists such as GroovyRoom, pH-1, Sik-K, Woogie, Phe Reds, Raz Simone, and Ted Park.[179]

2018–present: Ask Bout Me, The Road Less Traveled, This Wasn't Supposed To Happen and The Rap of China

[edit]

In May 2018, Park released his first official single under Roc Nation, "SOJU" featuring 2 Chainz.[180] On July 20, 2018, Park released his debut American project, an English-language EP named Ask Bout Me. Along with "SOJU", the seven track EP featured several notable American rappers such as Rich the Kid and Vic Mensa, as well as in-house production from AOMG and H1ghr Music artists such as Cha Cha Malone and GroovyRoom.[181] On June 7, 2019, Park released his fifth solo studio album, The Road Less Traveled. The album contained features from Jay Electronica and Higher Brothers.[182] In November 2019, Jay Park released a collaborative EP with American producer Hit-Boy, called This Wasn't Supposed to Happen. Named after the surprise nature of the duo's collaboration, This Wasn't Supposed to Happen marked Park's second release under Roc Nation, and was preceded by their single "K-Town".[183] In the month after, Park collabed with Latin artist and fellow Roc Nation signee Mozart La Para for the single "Son Malas".[184] Both singles contained music videos.

Park featured as the first-ever non-Chinese guest judge in the fourth season of The Rap of China, first airing on August 14, 2020. His appearance on the TV rap competition show was met with mixed reception, drawing backlash from some Chinese audiences who resented the appearance of a non-Chinese on the show, and from Korean audiences who resented the fact that Park chose to appear on the Chinese show and not the similar South Korean TV series Show Me The Money.[185][186][unreliable source?] On December 31, 2021, Park stepped down as CEO of both AOMG and H1gher Music, but remained as adviser of both companies.[187][unreliable source?]

On March 3, 2022, Park established a new label called More Vision.[188][unreliable source?] In July, Park will release Need To Know on July 12, 2022.[189] Later that month, it was announced that Park would be attending the Hip-Hop Playa Festival 2022 taking place September 17–18.[190] On August 16, it was announced that Park has released a teaser image for their new song "Bite", which will be released on August 18.[191] In November 2022, Park was named one of GQ Korea's Men of the Year.[192]

Artistry

[edit]

Influences

[edit]
Usher (left) and Michael Jackson (right) are two of Park's biggest influences

Park's music takes its roots in R&B and hip hop, more specifically from the 90s.[193] He is influenced by the work of American artists he grew up listening to, such as Usher, Michael Jackson, Ne-Yo, Chris Brown, Ginuwine, Musiq Soulchild, Justin Timberlake, Eminem, Jay-Z, Nas, Tupac, Dr. Dre, and Canibus.[57][80][194][195] Park credits Usher as his idol and as one of his biggest influences, who he started listening to in the 6th grade.[196][unreliable source?][197] He also cites Michael Jackson as his role model, as "he is the best".[194] He cites both Usher and Michael Jackson as singers and dancers who influence him vocally and in dance, as he attempts to mimic them, looking at their music videos.[197] In 2012, Park also cited Chris Brown as an inspiration, and wanted "to be a singer who can be good at both singing and rapping like [him]".[195] Park began listening to hip hop music when he was in second grade, after one of his cousins let him listen to Warren G's "Regulate".[57][198] In general, Park stated he "doesn't really listen to music to get inspiration, I listen to music because I listen to music, but I do get inspired when I listen to music, it definitely helps".[199]

For his dance, Park highlights Art of Movement, Skill Methods, and Massive Monkees as b-boy crews that influence him.[200][unreliable source?][201] He also cites Andrew Baterina from SoReal Cru; Movement Lifestyle's members Keone Madrid, Lyle Beniga, and Shaun Evaristo; Ian Eastwood; and Twitch.[200][201] Park is also inspired by Taiwanese-American NBA player Jeremy Lin, saying that Lin "was off the radar and now he's playing with the best of the best. People can't hate on him even though they want to because he's so good. That's how a K-pop star has to be over in America if they want to succeed. They have to be so good in every single way that even if people hate, they can't really say anything".[202]

Musical style

[edit]

Jay Park's music is generally contemporary R&B and hip hop, but he also incorporates pop, dance, soul, electronic and acoustic into his songs.[203] Prior to debuting with 2PM, Park was coached vocally by former SOLID member and renowned R&B artist Kim Jo-han, also known to be the vocal coach of many idols in the industry.[204][unreliable source?][205][unreliable source?] Kim went on to say that "[Park] has an appealing and unique voice" and "definitely stood out amongst the rest".[204] Park began to write rap lyrics in eighth grade.[206] Since becoming a solo artist, he has complete creative control over his music : he writes and composes his own songs, produces his albums, chooses the people he wants to work with, and participates in the mastering and mixing of his songs, something almost unheard-of for a singer in the Korean music industry.[57][206][207] More than making hit songs, Park says he wants people to hear his style of music, to make them listen to "Jay Park-sounding" music.[207][208] Being fluent in both English and Korean, Park writes songs in these two languages.[47] He admits that he is more at ease when writing songs in English than in Korean, as he started learning Korean in his late teens.[206] In 2011, Park stated that the music he currently creates is "the music that I wanted to do" prior to his departure from 2PM.[209] His musical process starts by listening to a lot of beats sent by various producers, while thinking of what kind of song he wants to write, and eventually short-listing a selection of potential beats to work with.[206] Then, Park works on the melody of the song, along with ideas and lyrics. He writes the hook of the song first, and finally the verses.[210][211] Park is inspired by everything when writing songs: "just listening to good songs, seeing a good live performance, having good conversations with people. Just everyday life".[212] Some songs Park wrote are influenced by songs from other artists, for example, his song "Turn Off Your Phone" (전화기를 꺼놔; Revised Romanization: Jeonhwagireur Kkeonwa) from his album New Breed was inspired by Leessang's hit single "Turn Off the TV ..." (Korean: TV를 껐네…; Revised Romanization: TV Reurkkeotne) from their 7th album Asura Balbalta.[206]

Endorsements

[edit]

In July 2010, Park was announced to be endorsing Levi Strauss & Co.'s new brand, dENiZEN. He had previously revealed on YouTube in June 2010, before coming back to Korea, that he was at a photoshoot without revealing it was for dENiZEN.[213] He continued to endorse the brand until the end of 2011 with female model Kwon Ri-se.[214] Park and Kwon recorded a remix duet song of dENiZEN's theme song, "Manifesto".[215] In early 2012, Park was chosen by KT Tech to be the official model of Take HD, a new smartphone by the brand.[216] Park released the maxi-single "Take HD Special Maxi Album" on February 7, 2012, produced by KT Tech to promote the smartphone.[217] The maxi-single includes remixes of Park's lead single from his album New Breed, "Know Your Name", released on the same day.

Park appears with fellow SidusHQ celebrities Jang Hyuk, Kim Soo-ro, Kim Shin-young and Jang Hee-jin in the MMORPG Lineage 2 as supporting characters.[218] On behalf of Naver's first "Fashion Collaboration" event, Park also with fashion designer 275C for creation of a joint T-shirt titled Live Free, representing Park's free mind and lifestyle, and displaying both the Space Needle from Seattle, his hometown, and the Namsan Tower from Seoul, where he currently lives. The back of the T-shirt shows the names of his b-boy crews Art of Movement and Korean Assassins, and dance collaboration team, Project Prepix Asia.[219]

Park was also chosen to endorse and model for casual clothing brand Googims [ko] for their 2012 collections; after the announcement was made, it was stated that "the brand's home page server was down every five minutes".[220] A behind the scenes video of Park performing an impromptu dance to "Gangnam Style" by Psy at a Googims photo shoot was uploaded to YouTube on September 2, 2012, capturing the public's attention for his unique take of the choreography.[221][unreliable source?][222][unreliable source?] Park also has been selected as the new model for outdoor clothing brand, Williamsburg, participating in TV commercials and fan-signing events.[223]

In March 2013, Park, a long time fan of Nike, participated at a Nike event in Seoul, Korea, titled "Nike on Air", which was streamed live online via Ustream. Park is currently sponsored by Nike Korea, and has modeled various times for the apparel company. In 2016, Park, alongside Jessica Jung, Tian Yo, Charlene, and Pakho Chau modeled for Adidas's Celebration of Sportswear campaign. In March 2016, Park modeled for Umbro Korea's 'Reborn to Heritage' campaign; and did a photoshoot for Police Sunglasses, which was featured in the April issue of Dazed Korea magazine.[citation needed]

Personal life

[edit]

On March 8, 2020, a police report was filed against Brian Ortega for allegedly slapping Park, who is a good friend of UFC featherweight fighter Chan Sung Jung (also known as "Korean Zombie"), and serves as his translator. The slap allegedly happened while Jung went to the bathroom at UFC 248.[224][225]

Park is bilingual, fluent in both English and Korean, and can speak basic Mandarin.[226]

Philanthropy

[edit]

On March 8, 2022, Park donated 50 million to the Hope Bridge Disaster Relief Association to help the victims of the massive wildfires that started in Uljin, Gyeongbuk, and also spread to Samcheok, Gangwon.[227] On August 12, 2022, Park donated ₩100 million to help those affected by the 2022 South Korean floods through the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association.[228]

Discography

[edit]
  • New Breed (2012)
  • Evolution (2014)
  • Worldwide (2015)
  • Everything You Wanted (2016)
  • The Road Less Traveled (2019)
  • The One You Wanted (2024)

Filmography

[edit]

Television shows

[edit]
Year Program Notes
2011 Immortal Songs 2 Regular cast member
2012 True Man Show Episodes 1-11
2013 Dancing 9 (Season 2) Judge, Blue Eye Team
Saturday Night Live Korea Cast member
2014 Show Me The Money 4 Judge/Producer with Loco
2015 Unpretty Rapstar 2 Producer team with Cha Cha Malone
2016 Saturday Night Live Korea Host; AOMG special
King of Mask Singer Episode 41 & 42 ("Cold City Monkey")
2017 Show Me The Money 6 Judge/Producer with Dok2
Asia's Got Talent Judge, Season 2
2019 Judge, Season 3
2019 Signhere Host
2021 High School Rapper 4 Judge/Producer with pH-1 & Woogie (HIGHR Music Team)
2022 Showdown Cast[229]
The Origin Balancer (referee)[230]
Show Me the Money 11 Producer with Slom[231]
2023 Peak Time Judge[232]
The Seasons: Jay Park's Drive Host; Season 1[233][234]
R U Next? Special coach (Eps. 4)
2024 Universe League Host

Web shows

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2022 Saturday Night Live Korea Host Season 2 – Episode 12 [235]

Music video appearances

[edit]
Year Song Title Artist Ref.
2021 "Lipstick" Lee Hi (Feat. Yoon Mirae) [236]
2021 "B.T.W" Jay B (Feat. Jay Park)

Tours and concerts

[edit]

Headlining

  • White Love Party Concert (2010)
  • New Breed Live in Seoul (2012)
  • APAHM Tour (2012)
  • MTV World Stage Live in Malaysia (2012)
  • New Breed Asia Tour (2012)
  • Australia Tour (2012)
  • Jay Park First European Tour (2013)
  • Jay park I like 2 party in BKK (2013)
  • AOMG 2014 USA TOUR (2014)
  • Show Me The Money 4 Concert Tour (2015)
  • AOMG "Follow The Movement" – Korea & U.S. Concert Tours (2016)
  • AOMG Concert 2017 'Follow The Movement'
  • Jay Park - All Of Me (Korean Concert) (2018)
  • SEXY 4EVA World Tour (2019)
  • Serenades & Body Rolls World Tour (2025)

Supporting

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Name of award ceremony, year presented, award category, nominee of award, and result of nomination
Award ceremony Year Category Nominee/work Result Ref.
Asia Model Awards 2012 Popular Artist Award Jay Park Won [110]
Golden Disc Awards Disc Bonsang Take a Deeper Look Won [237]
2013 Disc Album Award New Breed Nominated [238]
Popularity Award Jay Park Nominated
Korean Hip-hop Awards 2017 Artist of the Year Jay Park Won [239]
R&B Album of the Year Everything You Wanted Won
Collaboration of the Year "City Breeze" (with Kirin) Nominated [240]
Hip Hop Track of the Year "Ain't No Party Like an AOMG Party" (with Ugly Duck) Nominated
R&B Track of the Year "All I Wanna Do (K)" (featuring Hoody & Loco) Nominated
2018 Artist of the Year Jay Park Won [241]
Hip Hop track of the year "Most Hated" (with Dok2) Nominated [242]
R&B Track of the Year "Yacht (K)" (featuring Sik-K) Nominated
2021 Artist of the Year Jay Park Won
Underrated Album of The Year "Everybody Sucks" (with DJ Wegun) Nominated
Label of the Year H1ghr Music Won
Label of the Year AOMG Nominated
Korean Music Awards 2013 Male Musician of the Year Netizen Vote Jay Park Won [243]
Best R&B & Soul Album New Breed Nominated [244]
2015 Male Musician of the Year Netizen Vote Jay Park Won [245]
Best R&B & Soul Album Evolution Nominated
Best R&B & Soul Song "Ride Me" (Korean: 올라타) Nominated
2017 Best R&B & Soul Album Everything You Wanted Won [246]
Musician of the Year Jay Park Won
Best R&B & Soul Song "All I Wanna Do (K)" (featuring Hoody & Loco) Nominated
"City Breeze" (with Kirin) Nominated
MAMA Awards 2011 Best Dance Performance – Solo "Abandoned" Nominated
Song of the Year Nominated
2013 Best Dance Performance - Male Solo "Joah" Nominated [247]
2015 Best Rap Performance "Mommae" Nominated [248]
Song of the Year Nominated
2017 Best Collaboration "Most Hated" (with Dok2) Nominated [249]
2018 Best Hip Hop & Urban Music "SOJU" (featuring 2 Chainz) Nominated [250]
2022 "Ganadara" (featuring IU) Won [251]
Mashable Awards 2011 Best Web Video "Nothin' on You" Won [252]
Must Follow Personality Jay Park Nominated [79]
O Music Awards 2011 Best Choreography "Abandoned" Nominated
Best Male Solo Artist Jay Park Nominated
Must-Follow Artist on Twitter Nominated
SBS MTV Best of the Best 2014 Best Hip Hop Music Video "So Good" Won [253]
Shorty Awards 2011 Best Celebrity on Twitter Jay Park Nominated [254][unreliable source?]
Connecting People Award Nominated
2013 Flava Award Jay Park & Mizz Nina Won

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia

Jay Park (Korean: 박재범; born April 25, 1987) is an American singer, rapper, songwriter, record producer, dancer, model, and entrepreneur of Korean descent, primarily active in .
Born in , to Korean immigrant parents, Park moved to in 2006 after being scouted for JYP Entertainment's trainee program.
He debuted as the leader of the 2PM in 2008, contributing to early hits before leaving the group in 2009 amid backlash over past online comments criticizing aspects of Korean culture.
Following his exit, Park built a solo career blending , R&B, and hip-hop, releasing multiple albums and EPs that topped charts in .
In 2013, he co-founded , an independent hip-hop label that became a key player in Korean urban music, and later established , signing international artists and partnering with for U.S. distribution.
Park's achievements include winning Artist of the Year at the in 2017, 2018, and 2021, as well as Musician of the Year at the 2013 , and receiving the Smithsonian Institution's Game Changer Award in 2019 for his influence on Asian representation in hip-hop.

Early life

Family background and upbringing

Park Jae-beom, known professionally as Jay Park, was born on April 25, 1987, in , within the , to Korean immigrant parents. His family maintained strong ties to Korean culture while navigating life in the United States, fostering a bicultural environment that exposed him to both heritage traditions and local American influences from an early age. Raised in , Park exhibited a keen interest in hip-hop music and during his childhood, activities that provided a sense of identity amid his dual cultural background. These self-taught pursuits reflected the vibrant local hip-hop and R&B scenes in the , shaping his early artistic inclinations before any formal involvement in the entertainment industry.

Training and pre-debut years

In early 2005, at age 12, Jay Park was scouted by founder Park Jin-young after auditioning in the area, prompting his relocation to in January to join the agency's trainee program. Park's training regimen involved daily intensive sessions in , , dancing, acquisition, and supplementary skills such as , spanning roughly four years until his debut preparations in 2008. The schedule typically ran from morning to late evening, often exceeding 12 hours, fostering technical proficiency but also imposing significant physical and mental demands, with Park later reflecting that it eroded his initial creative enthusiasm by prioritizing mechanical repetition over artistic expression. The program's strict oversight included instances of verbal and physical reprimands for performance errors, as recounted from observations among peers, though he personally escaped such measures due to his emerging leadership status. Toward the end of training, Park was integrated into One Day, an 11-member pre-debut group assembled from top JYP trainees via competitive challenges on the 2007–2008 reality series Hot Blood, where members executed group performances, dances, and evaluations to prove synchronization and stage viability before the ensemble's eventual subdivision.

Musical career

Debut with 2PM and initial controversy (2008–2009)

Jay Park debuted as the leader of the South Korean under on September 4, 2008, with the group's first single album Hottest Time of the Day, featuring the lead track "10 Out of 10". Formed from trainees who had competed on the survival program Hot Blood, emphasized high-energy choreography and vocal performances, quickly building a dedicated fanbase known as Hottest through television appearances and promotions. The debut release marked Park's entry into the industry after years of training in , positioning the —including Park, , , Taecyeon, Wooyoung, Junho, and Chansung—as a rising act in the competitive idol market. In early September 2009, archived comments from Park's account, written around 2005–2006 during his early trainee days at age 17–18, surfaced online and ignited widespread . These posts expressed frustrations with adapting to Korean culture, including complaints about , hygiene standards, the demanding nature of idol training, and a preference for , using phrases like "Korea is gay" and derogatory remarks toward Koreans. The revelations, stemming from a period of for the U.S.-raised trainee, prompted intense backlash from netizens and fans who viewed them as ungrateful or culturally insensitive toward the industry that had invested in his development. Park responded with a public apology on September 9, 2009, expressing regret for his immature words and affirming his commitment to the group. Despite this, announced his withdrawal from on September 17, 2009, stating that after discussions, Park had decided it was best for him to return to the to reflect on his path, citing difficulties in fulfilling the responsibilities expected of a leader. The agency terminated his contract, sending him back to Seattle, Washington, amid the scandal's fallout, which underscored the K-pop sector's stringent expectations for public image and , even for past private expressions of adolescent discontent. This abrupt exit after 13 months halted Park's group activities and led to initial industry ostracism, though the comments predated his debut by years.

Solo debut and independent rise (2010–2011)

Following his departure from in September 2009 amid over past online comments, Park returned to the , where he began rebuilding his career through self-directed online content. In early 2010, he uploaded self-produced covers and original raps to , including a Korean-language adaptation of B.o.B's "" featuring his own verses, which quickly amassed views and fan engagement by circumventing South Korea's traditional entertainment gatekeepers. This digital approach allowed him to maintain visibility despite an effective blacklist from Korean programs and industry opportunities stemming from the prior scandal. Park returned to in June 2010 to film the dance movie Hype Nation, after which he signed with SidusHQ management in July. On July 13, 2010, he released his solo debut Count on Me (titled 믿어줄래 in Korean), consisting of three tracks centered on a remake of "" with Korean lyrics and additional rap sections written by Park himself. The EP marked his independent pivot toward R&B-infused tracks while leveraging his roots for bilingual appeal, though promotion remained limited by ongoing industry exclusion. In 2011, Park expanded his output with the mini-album Take a Deeper Look, released on April 27, comprising seven self-composed songs including "Abandoned" as the and "Touch the " featuring rapper . To sustain momentum without major label support, he undertook grassroots performances, such as appearances at U.S.-based Korean-American events like the ISA concert in in September 2010 and KoreAm's Unforgettable gala in December 2011, where he performed covers and originals to build direct fan connections. These efforts underscored his self-reliant strategy, relying on personal hustle and online traction to navigate barriers in the Korean market.

Establishment with AOMG and early solo releases (2012–2014)

In February 2012, Jay Park released his first full-length Korean-language album, New Breed, which featured a mix of , electro, , and elements. The album included tracks like "Know Your Name" featuring and "Girl Friend," marking Park's shift toward incorporating hip-hop influences into his solo work following his independent releases. Later that year, on May 16, Park dropped the English-language Fresh A!r: Breathe !t, emphasizing rap aesthetics with collaborations such as "You Know How We Do" featuring . Park's involvement in entertainment expanded in early 2013 when he joined the cast of SNL Korea as a fixed member, announced on February 6, following a hosting appearance the prior December; he participated in sketches blending comedy with musical performances during season 4 episodes. This period also saw Park pushing into Asian markets through promotional activities and awards recognition, including acceptance of the Musician of the Year at the in 2013. On August 2, 2013, Park founded (Above Ordinary Music Group), an independent hip-hop and R&B label aimed at supporting urban music artists outside major structures. Early signings included producer Gray as the first artist and rapper Loco in December, establishing as a platform for fostering the independent Korean hip-hop scene through artist development and collaborative projects. Park served as CEO, leveraging his solo momentum to build a infrastructure that emphasized creative control and genre innovation.

Mainstream expansion and label growth (2015–2017)

In 2015, Jay Park released his third studio album Worldwide on November 5 through , featuring tracks like the title song "You Know" that blended hip-hop and R&B elements with contributions from label affiliates such as Gray and Loco. The album peaked at number 3 on the Gaon Album Chart and sold 32,776 copies that year, securing the 62nd position on Gaon's year-end album sales ranking. This release marked a step toward broader domestic recognition, with promotional efforts including music videos and live performances that highlighted Park's growing influence in Korea's hip-hop scene. Continuing his momentum, Park issued Everything You Wanted, his fourth full-length album, on October 20, 2016, also via . Lead singles "Drive" and a Korean version of "All I Wanna Do" (featuring Hoody and Loco) underscored label collaborations, while the project debuted at number 3 on the World Albums chart. It achieved 23,027 physical sales in 2016, ranking 94th on Gaon's year-end album chart, and placed 39th on Melon's 2017 annual chart, earning the Best R&B & Soul Album award at the Korean Popular Music Awards. These chart performances reflected Park's integration into mainstream Korean music consumption, supported by AOMG's production resources and artist network. Parallel to his solo output, expanded during this period, signing vocalist Hoody in 2015 to bolster its R&B roster alongside established acts like Gray and Loco, fostering synergies evident in cross-featured tracks on Park's albums. In May 2017, Park co-founded with longtime collaborator as a complementary global hip-hop label under the AOMG umbrella, aiming to attract international talent and emphasize English-language and multicultural releases. This move diversified AOMG's operations, with H1GHR positioned for broader signings beyond Korea's domestic market. Further amplifying his profile, Park signed with on July 21, 2017, becoming the first Asian-American artist on the label founded by . The deal facilitated entry into the U.S. market, coinciding with releases like the "Most Hated" video collaboration with shortly after, though major American features materialized later; it positioned Park for potential crossovers by leveraging Roc Nation's network in hip-hop and R&B.

International collaborations and later albums (2018–2022)

In 2018, Jay Park expanded his international presence through the EP Ask Bout Me, released on July 20 via , his first project with the U.S.-based label founded by . The seven-track release featured American hip-hop artists such as on the single "," GASHI and on "FSU," and on "Hype," emphasizing cross-cultural rap exchanges with trap-influenced beats from producers like , Woogie, and . These collaborations highlighted Park's ability to integrate Korean-American artistry with mainstream U.S. sounds, achieving notable streaming traction on platforms like . Park continued creative experimentation with his fifth studio album The Road Less Traveled, issued on June 7, 2019, under , comprising 17 tracks led by the single "." The project incorporated diverse production styles, including hip-hop and R&B elements, and repurposed prior singles like "Get It All," demonstrating iterative refinement in his solo output amid global touring constraints. Later that year, on November 16, 2019, he partnered with U.S. producer for the surprise EP This Wasn't Supposed to Happen, a six-track effort under featuring "20/20" and "Call You Bae," which blended introspective lyrics with hard-hitting beats to underscore Park's transatlantic production ties. During the from 2020 onward, Park adapted to restrictions by prioritizing digital releases and virtual engagements, maintaining momentum through singles and streaming-focused promotion rather than live tours. This period saw sustained listener metrics for his catalog, with tracks from prior albums like those on Ask Bout Me continuing to accumulate plays, evidencing resilience in his international fanbase amid venue closures worldwide. Such adaptations reflected broader industry shifts toward online platforms, allowing Park to experiment with remote collaborations while diversifying beyond Korean markets.

Recent projects and resurgence (2023–present)

In October 2024, Jay Park released his sixth studio album, The One You Wanted, a 20-track R&B-focused project featuring multiple collaborations and marking his return to full-length releases after a prior emphasis on singles and EPs. The album debuted with lead singles "," "Gimme A Minute," and "Piece Of Heaven," distributed through More Vision and available on major streaming platforms. Park launched his second world tour, Serenades & Body Rolls, on May 24 and 25, 2025, with sold-out performances at in , . The tour extended across Asia (including stops in on June 14, on June 19, on June 22, and on June 28), (Sydney on August 19 and on August 21), and , with additional dates in on July 9 selling out during general onsale. Later legs reached Kanagawa, , on August 12 and recaps confirming high attendance. Through his label More Vision, established in 2022, Park shifted focus toward idol group development, unveiling the four-member boy group LNGSHOT—comprising Ryul, Woojin, Rui, and Oyul—on September 19, , with a debut planned for early 2026. The group performed surprise sets at university festivals prior to debut, signaling preparatory momentum. Park also indicated intentions to launch a under the label in 2026, expanding beyond solo and hip-hop acts. These initiatives, alongside the album and tour, underscored sustained commercial activity into late .

Artistry

Influences and inspirations

Park's foundational influences stem from his upbringing in Seattle, Washington, where he developed a passion for hip-hop culture through competitive breaking and b-boying as a teenager. As a member of the local b-boy crew , he engaged deeply with the genre's dance and rhythmic elements, which shaped his early performance approach and later fusion of rap with physical expression. Among specific artists, stands out as a primary inspiration for Park's vocal delivery, , and stage presence. In a 2025 interview, Park described Jackson as having "changed the game, not just with music but with performance," crediting him for influencing tracks like the 2014 single "So Good," which incorporated Jackson-esque dance moves and stylistic nods. Similarly, R&B singer Usher has been repeatedly cited by Park as a model for and dancing techniques, with Park expressing fandom and emulation in early career discussions. Park has also drawn from broader R&B and hip-hop lineages, including admiration for , whom he referenced alongside Usher in a 2010 interview as an artist whose style he sought to incorporate into his music. These American roots blended with his K-pop training, evident in selective nods to Korean hip-hop acts like , whose 2009 track "Turn Off the TV" directly inspired elements in Park's early solo work. This synthesis reflects Park's self-described identity formation in hip-hop and R&B during his formative years in the U.S.

Musical style and evolution

Jay Park's musical style originated in the high-energy genre during his tenure with , characterized by synchronized choreography, powerful group vocals, and upbeat electronic beats designed for live performances, as exemplified in their 2008 debut single "10 Out of 10." This framework emphasized structured, idol-oriented production with polished synths and rhythmic hooks to appeal to mass audiences in . Following his departure from in 2009 and independent solo pursuits starting in 2010, Park shifted toward hip-hop and R&B dominance, incorporating trap elements like heavy 808 bass, auto-tuned melodies, and sparse, percussive beats that allowed for more improvisational vocal delivery and reduced reliance on . Tracks such as "Mommae" (2015, featuring Ugly Duck) demonstrate this evolution through its fusion of smooth R&B flows with trap-influenced production, including booming low-end frequencies and layered ad-libs that prioritize rhythmic groove over melodic complexity. This progression causally stemmed from Park's transition to solo artistry, enabling experimentation unbound by JYP Entertainment's idol formulas, resulting in edgier sonic textures post-2011 that aligned with underground hip-hop scenes. His bilingual approach further shaped this hybrid sound, blending Korean and English phrasing in rapid switches during verses and hooks, which created a culturally fused that echoed Western trap cadences while retaining K-pop's melodic accessibility—evident in albums like (2014), where piano-driven hip-hop intros transition into R&B-infused choruses. Production techniques evolved from rudimentary self-composed demos and YouTube-era uploads in the early to sophisticated collaborations leveraging label resources after founding in 2013, incorporating high-fidelity mixing and genre-blending like rhythms in later works to optimize for global streaming platforms. By the late , this adaptation yielded trap-heavy tracks such as "" (noted for percussive, water-droplet-like hits) and bass-dominant "DANK," reflecting a maturation toward mature, bass-forward arrangements that prioritized replay value in algorithm-driven consumption.

Songwriting and production approach

Jay Park maintains a hands-on approach to songwriting, personally authoring lyrics and compositions for numerous tracks across his discography, as seen in collaborations where he contributes directly to the creative core. In his 2024 album The One You Wanted, a 20-track R&B project spanning songs written from 2018 to 2024, Park draws from personal evolution and industry hardships to infuse lyrics with themes of resilience, marking a return to introspective roots while solidifying his self-defined sound. His production process emphasizes close-knit collaborations with trusted producers, such as , to refine tracks through iterative detailing, as detailed in discussions of hits like "All I Wanna Do" from 2016. Under labels like , which he founded in 2013, Park promoted organic artist development, enabling in-label synergy that counters K-pop's reliance on external ghostwriting by prioritizing authentic, performer-led creation. This ethos persists in recent works, featuring artists like Ty Dolla $ign, Chungha, IU, and , yet retains Park's oversight for cohesive artistic integrity.

Business ventures

Record labels and artist development

Jay Park co-founded the independent hip-hop label in September 2013 alongside rapper , who later joined as co-CEO, positioning it as a foundational entity in South Korea's urban music landscape. The label rapidly expanded to include approximately 20 artists across rap, R&B, production, and DJ roles, such as producers Gray and , vocalists and Hoody, and rappers Loco and , fostering a collaborative environment that emphasized creative autonomy over corporate oversight. This structure enabled to cultivate talent through in-house releases and events, helping to professionalize Korean hip-hop by attracting artists disillusioned with mainstream systems and generating revenue via independent distribution channels. In June 2017, Park established with producer , targeting trap, rap, and R&B with an international focus bridging and scenes. The label signed emerging acts like pH-1, , HAON, Woodie Gochild, and , prioritizing undiscovered talent and global outreach, which contributed to sold-out tours and broader visibility for Korean hip-hop abroad. H1GHR's model emphasized artist development through cross-cultural collaborations, yielding measurable growth in streaming metrics and live performances that underscored its role in diversifying revenue beyond traditional broadcasting. Following his departure as CEO of and in December 2021, Park founded More Vision on March 3, 2022, marking a strategic pivot toward hybrid idol development integrating hip-hop influences with scalable group formats. The label has initiated auditions and preparations for boy groups like LNGSHOT, set for debut in early 2026, aiming to incubate versatile talents capable of blending urban genres with idol training regimens for broader market penetration. This evolution reflects Park's adaptation to industry demands, prioritizing efficient talent pipelines over pure hip-hop exclusivity to sustain long-term viability. Collectively, Park's labels—AOMG and H1GHR as leading hip-hop entities, followed by More Vision's hybrid approach—have signed dozens of artists and elevated independent Korean urban music's ecosystem, often cited as top influencers in a scene historically overshadowed by corporate dominance. Their success metrics include roster expansion and event-driven income, enabling artists to retain greater creative control and earnings compared to idol factories reliant on agency subsidies.

Diversified enterprises

Jay Park ventured into the spirits industry with the founding of Won Soju in 2022, establishing a premium brand that modernizes traditional Korean soju through innovative and flavor profiles aimed at international consumers. The product emphasizes high-quality ingredients and craftsmanship, positioning it as a extension of Park's Korean-American identity and cultural advocacy. Initial rollout occurred in , followed by U.S. market entry on September 1, 2023, marked by launch events in that drew celebrity attendance and media coverage. By August 2025, Park disclosed plans for a brand revamp to enhance its global appeal and distribution, underscoring a strategic pivot toward scalable consumer goods amid music's unpredictability. Park's longstanding affiliation with the Seattle-based b-boy crew , joined during his high school years around 2004, has facilitated diversification into dance-related performances and events that complement his artistic foundation. Founded in 2002, the crew gained prominence through competitive appearances and collaborations, including high-profile showcases tied to Park's early career, such as the 2010 Project Korea III event. This involvement extends his expertise from music performance to , enabling revenue from crew-linked appearances and merchandise that capitalize on hip-hop and b-boying's enduring subcultural market. Endorsement agreements further illustrate Park's approach to risk-managed expansion, with notable deals including his appointment as Gucci's global on November 12, 2023, where he featured in campaigns under creative director Sabato De Sarno. Earlier partnerships, such as with dENiZEN by Levi's, leveraged his image for apparel promotions, providing diversified income less susceptible to music sales fluctuations. These ventures reflect a pragmatic diversification , prioritizing verifiable market synergies over music's volatility, though specific return metrics remain undisclosed in .

Controversies

MySpace posts and departure from 2PM

In early September 2009, old posts by Jay Park, dating from 2005 to 2007 during his early trainee period at , surfaced online, sparking widespread controversy in . The posts expressed frustration with the rigorous idol training regimen, cultural adjustments as an American-raised trainee, and included derogatory slang such as "Korea is gay" to denote perceived lameness or inferiority, alongside complaints like hating life in Korea and calling "stupid." These remarks, made privately to friends amid homesickness and adaptation struggles, were interpreted by netizens as , fueling demands for his removal from , the boy group he had led since its debut in 2008. Park issued a public apology on September 5, 2009, acknowledging the immaturity of his comments from years prior and expressing regret for offending fans and the Korean public. JYP initially defended his continued role in , citing his growth and contributions, but mounting online outrage and media pressure prompted a reversal. On September 8, 2009, after just four days of escalating backlash, JYP announced the termination of Park's contract, citing "serious privacy issues" as the basis, leading to his immediate withdrawal from the group and return to the . The incident highlighted the idol system's low tolerance for past indiscretions, even from trainee-era venting, as Park faced effective from Korean entertainment activities, preventing collaborations or promotions until his independent solo debut in April 2011. Back in , he self-funded his career recovery through freelance performances and online content, underscoring the causal link between unfiltered personal expressions and severe professional repercussions in an industry reliant on pristine public images. This outcome empirically demonstrated the fragility of trainee contracts, where individual accountability for historical statements could dismantle group dynamics and debut trajectories without recourse.

Allegations of racism, misogyny, and cultural insensitivity

Jay Park has faced accusations of cultural insensitivity primarily related to his adoption of hip-hop aesthetics, including cornrows, grills, and the use of the N-word in some early lyrics, which critics interpreted as appropriative of Black American culture despite his stated influences from the genre. These claims emerged in online discussions, often amplified by K-pop fans scrutinizing his artistic choices as performative rather than authentic, though Park has cited direct mentorship from figures like Usher and immersion in Seattle's hip-hop scene as context for his style. No formal investigations or legal findings substantiated racism allegations beyond these stylistic critiques, which Park addressed by emphasizing cultural exchange in music over rigid boundaries. Allegations of have centered on in tracks like "MOMMAE," where Park describes female bodies in explicit terms, leading to claims of and . Critics, particularly in fan forums, argued such content reinforces harmful stereotypes, contrasting it with broader norms but holding Park to stricter standards due to his independent status. Park responded to related backlash by framing his work as artistic expression rooted in personal experiences, without issuing blanket apologies, and noted the absence of convictions or institutional for these . Additional controversy arose in 2023 when Park defended rapper 28AV, a white artist accused of using racial slurs in music, prompting backlash from international K-pop fans who viewed it as excusing racism. This incident fueled Reddit threads accusing Park of arrogance and favoritism toward Big Bang over newer acts like BTS, with users tying his non-conformist persona—such as candid interviews—to perceived insensitivity. Park countered by highlighting selective outrage in fan culture, advocating for free speech and contextual judgment over perpetual cancellation, while maintaining no evidence of personal discriminatory actions beyond online defenses. These episodes reflect broader tensions in K-pop fandoms, where empirical harm is often conflated with subjective offense, absent verifiable patterns of behavior leading to accountability beyond social media scrutiny.

Recent public backlash and defenses

In June 2021, Jay Park released a remix of Kendrick Lamar's "DNA" featuring South Korean rappers, billed as an "Asian version" with visuals incorporating hip-hop aesthetics like dreadlocks and urban settings. Critics accused him of cultural appropriation, arguing the video mimicked Black American hip-hop culture without adequate innovation or respect for its origins. Park defended the project as a homage to heritage and self-pride, stating in comments that it celebrated "DNA" in the context of Asian identity rather than mockery. The video was set to private shortly after release amid backlash but re-emerged in a revised edit two months later, with no evidence of boycotts or career disruptions, as Park continued releasing music and collaborations uninterrupted. In October 2025, Park performed his 2015 track "Mommae"—featuring explicit lyrics objectifying female anatomy—at the afterparty of W Korea's "Love Your W" campaign. backlash from survivors and netizens labeled the setlist choice insensitive and tone-deaf for an event supporting those affected by , prompting calls for accountability. Park issued an apology on October 16, expressing regret to offended attendees and wishing them health, while noting his performance was uncompensated and delivered despite a requiring crutches. Defenders countered that criticism unfairly targeted the performer over organizers, highlighting his in fulfilling the unpaid gig amid physical hardship and faulting W Korea for poor event curation that prioritized celebrity spectacle over substantive fundraising. This led to his replacement at a subsequent luxury brand event by of , though supporters viewed it as disproportionate fallout from external mismanagement. These episodes drew scrutiny for perceived lapses in contextual sensitivity, yet Park's defenses emphasized intent rooted in artistic expression and professional commitment, evidenced by ongoing ventures like the September 2025 debut of his 's group LNGSHOT, which maintained momentum without derailing releases or partnerships. Such continuity in output—spanning new , label projects, and live commitments—undermines claims of irrelevance, prioritizing tangible productivity metrics like streaming numbers and event bookings over episodic optics-driven narratives.

Public image and legacy

Achievements and industry impact

Jay Park founded in 2013, developing it into one of South Korea's premier independent hip-hop labels that has nurtured artists like Gray and while hosting sold-out concerts demonstrating the genre's commercial viability beyond corporate frameworks. These events, including multi-night stands with extensive setlists, underscored indie rap's appeal to large audiences, paving the way for hip-hop's deeper integration into Korea's music landscape and inspiring specialized divisions in conglomerates like HYBE. By prioritizing artistic autonomy over idol training regimens, shifted paradigms toward sustainable, creator-driven models in a market historically dominated by large agencies. In July 2017, Park became the first Asian artist signed to , enabling direct pathways for Korean talent into U.S. hip-hop networks and amplifying cross-market collaborations. This milestone facilitated his global outreach, with subsequent projects leveraging international distribution to boost visibility; his has accumulated over 1.4 billion Spotify streams as of October 2025, reflecting heightened engagement compared to earlier solo peaks. The signing highlighted Asian artists' potential in Western labels, correlating with increased U.S.-Korea genre fusions evident in Park's Roc Nation-backed releases like Ask Bout Me. Through More Vision, established in 2022, Park debuted the boy group LNGSHOT in 2025, blending hip-hop roots with structured group dynamics to cultivate talent independently of the "Big Four" agencies. This venture introduces competitive alternatives, empirically diversifying debut pipelines and eroding the monopoly on idol production by validating smaller-scale, genre-hybrid approaches that prioritize rap proficiency alongside performance training. Such developments foster broader industry pluralism, as evidenced by More Vision's rapid artist signings and plans for additional groups by 2026, challenging entrenched trainee exclusivity.

Critical reception and fan perspectives

Jay Park's music has received praise from reviewers for its authentic blend of R&B and hip-hop influences, particularly in works like his 2012 mixtape , which was lauded for its soaring production and unfiltered lyrical delivery that eschewed K-pop's polished idol constraints. Similarly, his 2014 album earned high marks for cohesive tracks, with critics assigning it a 9/10 rating for its strong execution despite familiarity among songs. However, some assessments highlight a lack of innovation, describing collaborations like his 2022 track "Ganadara" with IU as pleasant and lyrically engaging but ultimately unimpressive and unlikely to endure as a standout. This tension reflects a broader of his prolific output—over 200 songs since 2010—as prioritizing volume over groundbreaking commercial evolution, though his pivot toward organic R&B elements has been credited with sustaining relevance amid shifting genres. Fan perspectives reveal a demographic split, with a core of U.S.-based and indie-leaning supporters valuing Park's independence and hip-hop authenticity, evidenced by rapid viewership milestones like over a million streams for tracks "Arrival" and "How We Rock" shortly after release in 2020. In contrast, segments of the purist community express disdain, often citing his 2009 departure from amid scandals and perceived misalignment with idol-group norms, leading to organized protests in his favor but persistent underrating in Korea where idol-focused metrics dominate. metrics underscore this divide, with international acclaim for his label-building and signing boosting global loyalty, while domestic skepticism lingers over cultural sensitivities in visuals like his 2021 "DNA" remix. Media portrayals have evolved from framing Park as a "blacklisted comeback kid" post-2PM exile to recognizing his merit-driven ascent as a self-made mogul, with outlets emphasizing resilience through independent ventures like AOMG rather than industry narratives of victimhood. This shift aligns with empirical success indicators, such as founding multiple labels and achieving firsts like Asian-American Roc Nation affiliation, attributing longevity to uncompromised artistry over external validation. Dissenting views persist in niche critiques of perceived commercial opportunism, yet overall reception credits his trajectory to persistent output and genre fusion, independent of K-pop's structured ecosystem.

Personal life

Relationships and privacy

Jay Park has maintained a low public profile regarding his romantic relationships, consistently stating a preference for privacy in personal matters. As of 2024, he is reported to be single with no publicly confirmed dating partners. He has shared limited details about past experiences, including a first love in Korea lasting approximately one and a half years, which ended due to his self-described obsessive behavior after moving from the and lacking a social circle. Rumors of a romantic involvement with singer have circulated since around 2018, stemming from unverified speculation and urban legends alleging an early and , but these claims lack evidence and have not been substantiated by either party. has not addressed these directly, aligning with his general avoidance of confirming or denying unsubstantiated gossip, particularly following earlier career scandals that heightened media scrutiny. Park has expressed openness to marriage and fatherhood in interviews, stating desires for children while critiquing and emphasizing genuine commitment, though he has never used dating apps and prioritizes emotional compatibility over public displays. As of October 2025, he remains unmarried with . His approach to reflects a deliberate strategy to shield personal life from , focusing instead on professional endeavors amid persistent tabloid interest. He occasionally references close family ties and pets, such as his dogs, as sources of private comfort, but avoids detailed disclosures.

Philanthropy and social contributions

Jay Park has made targeted donations to disaster relief efforts in , including ₩100 million to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association for victims of the 2022 floods that caused widespread damage and fatalities. In response to the 2025 South Korean wildfires, he contributed 70 million won to assist affected . During the , Park organized a food drive in his hometown of to provide aid to residents facing economic hardship from lockdowns and business closures. He has also supported the Community Chest of Korea's relief campaigns, channeling funds toward medical and recovery needs. Earlier in his , Park donated his full event appearance fee in September 2010 to a welfare organization aiding underprivileged children in , reflecting a focus on supporting young people amid his own transition from idol training. These contributions emphasize direct financial to verifiable crises rather than broad programs, with recipients like associations confirming receipt and allocation for immediate .

Tattoos

Jay Park has numerous tattoos across his body, including on his neck, arms, legs, head, and ribs, many symbolizing his music career, B-boy origins, family, faith, loyalty, and personal growth. In a December 2023 GQ Tattoo Tour video, he detailed them personally, including: "AOM" behind his ear for his B-boy crew Art of Movement (his first tattoo); a compass on his neck representing finding direction in life; "Jwalkers" on his upper spine for his fans; a large angel with rings on his head; "Heart of a Lion" and "King Life" on his hands denoting strength and responsibility; various arm tattoos such as "New Breed," a microphone, "Benjamin Franklin + Loyalty," "Seattle/Korea" with family, friends, and music heart motifs, "B-boy Life," "Strength/Faith," "World in My Hands," "Fresh Prince of S," and "Live Free"; a "Passion and Pleasure" ambigram on his ribs signifying balance; "See No Evil" with angel imagery; "AOMG" on his leg for his label; a rose, feathers, microphone, notes, and eye on his leg; and a lion with family birth dates and "Always Come Proper." In 2023, he expressed interest in removing one unspecified tattoo.

Filmography

Television and variety shows

Jay Park began his television career as a host on the cultural variety show Nodaji in August 2009, co-hosting with Kara member Nicole Jung before departing amid personal controversies. He later appeared as a guest and performer on Saturday Night Live Korea in episodes from 2013, including Season 4, demonstrating comedic sketches and hosting segments. In 2014, Park served as a dance master and judge for the Blue Eye team on Mnet's Dancing 9 Season 2, evaluating contestants' performances and occasionally participating in demonstrations to highlight technical skills. He expanded into rap competition judging on Show Me the Money Season 6 in 2017, leading the & 1llionaire team alongside , where he mentored emerging rappers through auditions and battles. That same year, he joined the judging panel for Season 2, providing feedback on diverse acts across Asia and emphasizing honest critiques without softening comments. Park continued judging roles in subsequent years, including as a producer and on JTBC's in 2022, focusing on idol group evaluations, and as a special judge on starting from its 2020 season. These appearances across Korean, regional, and international formats underscored his versatility beyond , enhancing his profile as a multifaceted entertainer while maintaining focus on performance critique and mentorship.

Music videos and guest appearances

Park's music video for "All I Wanna Do" (2016), featuring Hoody and Loco, includes an unofficial edit directed by JINOOYA that incorporates footage from AOMG's U.S. tour, blending live performance clips with promotional narrative elements to showcase the track's -heavy style. A dedicated version, produced in collaboration with , emphasizes synchronized dance sequences performed by Park and studio dancers, highlighting his background in precise, athletic movement. Earlier videos, such as "Solo" (2015) featuring Hoody, were directed by Jinooya and feature minimalist sets with Park's solo performance and subtle romantic visuals, reflecting his transition to independent releases under . Similarly, the "You Know" (2015) video featuring Okasian, directed by Tiger Cave, employs urban nightlife aesthetics and rapid cuts to underscore the song's upbeat tempo and collaborative energy. In guest capacities, Park appeared as a cameo in Charli XCX's self-directed "Boys" video (2017), joining a roster of over 50 male celebrities in stylized, objectified portrayals that playfully subvert gender tropes in pop visuals. His brief role contributes to the video's eclectic celebrity ensemble, extending his visibility into Western pop contexts. For collaborative features, the "Butterflies" (2020) video with Wolftyla, directed by the artist herself, integrates Park's rap verse amid dreamy, pastel-toned sequences filmed across studios in the U.S. and Korea. By the 2020s, Park's videos shifted toward polished, streaming-optimized productions with narrative depth and visual effects, as seen in "" (2022), which combines sleek cinematography and thematic intimacy to align with platforms like , amassing over 10 million views. Recent releases like "Gimme A Minute" (2024) featuring Chungha maintain high-budget choreography integration, while "McNasty" (2024) employs bold, irreverent styling to match its provocative lyrics.

Tours and live performances

Headlining tours

Park initiated his solo headlining tours in the early 2010s with smaller-scale performances in U.S. clubs and venues, building on his post-2PM solo debut amid a focus on hip-hop and R&B material tailored to American audiences. These early shows, often in intimate settings, emphasized direct fan engagement through covers and original tracks like early singles, marking a shift from group to personal stage presence. In 2012, Park expanded with the Verizon APAHM Tour, his inaugural major North American concert series, spanning multiple U.S. cities and featuring high-energy sets drawn from his New Breed album, including club-oriented hits that highlighted his dance background and bilingual appeal. This tour represented a scaling from club gigs to broader regional circuits, with performances closing events like MTV World Stage in later that year. Attendance figures were not publicly detailed, but the series underscored growing international interest post his JYP exit. Subsequent tours shifted toward Asian arenas, beginning with the New Breed Asia Tour, which included a concert at on August 18, 2012, evolving setlists to incorporate more mature R&B elements alongside rap verses for larger crowds. The Sexy 4EVA World Tour, his third headlining outing, further refined this formula with average sets opening on tracks like "Forget About Tomorrow" and "On Fire," blending solo anthems with collaborative feats, and prioritizing vocal delivery over elaborate visuals to foster closer audience connections. The 2025 Serenades & Body Rolls World Tour, announced in March, comprised over 20 dates across , , and , starting June 14 in , followed by (June 19), (June 22), (June 28), (August 19), and (August 21). Promoting recent output, the tour mixed smooth R&B interludes with rhythmic rap segments, adapting setlists from prior efforts to include fan-favorite medleys and impromptu interactions, maintaining a venue-versatile format that scaled from arenas to emphasize performer-audience rapport rather than pyrotechnic spectacle.

Notable concerts and residencies

In 2025, Jay Park performed at Sungkyunkwan University's annual ESKARA Fall Festival in , captivating audiences with high-energy sets including tracks like "Iffy" during the event's second day on September 12. The appearance highlighted his continued draw at university festivals, where he often delivers unscripted, crowd-engaging performances amid thousands of students. Earlier that month, on September 19–20, Park took the stage at Hanyang University's Ulrim Festival, performing songs such as "All I Wanna Do" to enthusiastic reception, further showcasing his festival prowess in academic settings. These ad-hoc university gigs, common in the Korean scene, allow artists like Park to connect directly with younger demographics without the structure of full tours. On October 15, 2025, Park appeared at W Korea's LOVE YOUR W 2025 charity event at the Four Seasons Hotel , a initiative that drew over 50 idols and celebrities. His set included "MOMMAE," a track with explicit lyrics referencing the female body, which sparked immediate backlash for clashing with the event's theme, leading Park to issue a public apology on October 16. Critics also questioned the gala's format, arguing it emphasized fashion and star power over tangible impact despite its charitable intent.

Discography

Studio albums

Jay Park's studio albums reflect his evolution as an independent artist, transitioning from post-controversy assertions of identity in early works to more introspective explorations of personal growth and global influences in later releases. His discography emphasizes self-production and collaborations within hip-hop and R&B circles, often under labels like that he co-founded.
TitleRelease dateLabel
New BreedFebruary 7, 2012Sidus HQ
September 1, 2014Sidus HQ
WorldwideNovember 5, 2015, CJ E&M
Everything You WantedOctober 20, 2016, CJ E&M
The Road Less TraveledJune 7, 2019, CJ E&M
The One You WantedOctober 8, 2024More Vision
New Breed, his debut full-length, featured tracks like "Star" and showcased defiance amid career setbacks, with contributions from Korean hip-hop artists such as Dynamic Duo and . built on this by incorporating mature R&B elements and the lead single "So Good," signaling artistic refinement. Subsequent albums like Worldwide and Everything You Wanted expanded to English-Korean bilingual formats, emphasizing trap and with features from international and domestic talents, while The Road Less Traveled highlighted thematic maturity through tracks addressing perseverance. The latest, The One You Wanted, returns to R&B roots, focusing on emotional depth post-label shifts. Sales figures vary, with earlier releases achieving modest domestic physical shipments under 10,000 units each, reflecting niche appeal in hip-hop over mainstream metrics.

Extended plays and singles

Jay Park's debut extended play, Count on Me, was released on July 13, 2010, under Vitamin Entertainment and consisted of three tracks, led by a Korean-language adaptation of B.o.B's "Nothin' on You" featuring Bruno Mars. The EP marked his first solo project following his exit from 2PM. Among his singles, "Mommae" featuring Ugly Duck, issued on May 22, 2015, achieved notable commercial success, peaking at number 12 on South Korea's Gaon Download Chart and accumulating over 163 million streams on Spotify. Park has released numerous digital singles and collaborations, including "All I Wanna Do" (2016) with over 92 million Spotify streams, and "Unlock It" alongside Charli XCX and Kim Petras (2017), which surpassed 124 million streams on the platform. In 2022, "Ganadara" featuring Huh Yunjin and Woodie Gochild topped South Korean charts, underscoring his sustained streaming and chart presence.

Awards and nominations

Major accolades

Jay Park received the Musician of the Year award at the 14th on February 28, 2017, recognizing his overall artistic impact that year, alongside the Best R&B & Soul Album for Everything You Wanted. These jury-selected honors, drawn from peer and critic evaluations, highlight his dominance in R&B and hip-hop fusion amid a field favoring mainstream acts. In the genre-specific , Park secured in 2017, 2018, and 2021, reflecting sustained peer recognition for his solo output and label influence in underground-to-mainstream hip-hop transitions. At the 2022 Mnet Asian Music Awards, he won Best Hop & Urban for "GANADARA" (featuring IU), a rare category victory for a non-group performer emphasizing lyrical and production merit over viral metrics. Internationally, Park accepted the Game Changer Award from the Smithsonian Institution's Asian Pacific American Center on May 20, 2019, acknowledging his role in elevating Korean-American hip-hop visibility through independent ventures like and . These accolades underscore empirical success in niche genres, with win rates favoring substantive artistry over broad popularity contests.

References

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