Josef Fares was born in Beirut, Lebanon, into an Assyrian family. His early life was marked by the backdrop of civil war, an experience that would later inform his storytelling and artistic perspective. This formative period instilled in him a deep appreciation for family, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships.

At the age of 10, Josef and his family fled the Lebanese Civil War and immigrated to Sweden. This significant relocation marked a turning point in his life, exposing him to a new culture and opportunities while also requiring adaptation and integration into a foreign society. Sweden provided a stable environment for him to pursue his creative interests.