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Sam Kim
Sam Kim
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Key Information

Sam Kim (Korean샘김) is an American singer-songwriter, producer, and guitarist based in South Korea. He signed to Antenna Music after finishing as the runner-up on the talent show K-pop Star 3 in 2014. He made his official debut on April 10, 2016, with the EP I Am Sam, following it with the studio album Sun and Moon on November 22, 2018.

Life and career

[edit]

After passing preliminary auditions in Los Angeles, Kim moved to South Korea at the age of 15 to participate in the third season of the talent show K-pop Star.[1] He placed second in the competition and was signed by Antenna Music's CEO You Hee-yeol, a judge on the show.[2][3]

Sam released the first part of his debut EP, My Name Is Sam, on March 28, 2016.[4] It contained three tracks including the pre-release single "Mama Don't Worry".[5] His full-length EP, I Am Sam, was released on April 10.[6] Its lead single was "No 눈치 (No Sense)", featuring Crush. His debut performance was at the finale stage of K-pop Star 5 on the same day.[7][unreliable source?]

The music video for the single "Make Up" was released on October 23, 2018, ahead of Sam's upcoming studio album, Sun and Moon.[8] It was his second lead single to feature Crush. The full album was released on November 22, 2018, along with a music video for the second single "It's You", featuring Zico.[9][10]

On March 8, 2024, Antenna published a post on its social media accounts, stating that Sam would be amicably parting ways with the company after ten years under the label.[11][12] On September 20, it was announced that Sam had signed to Park Hyo-shin's company Herbigharo.[13]

Personal life

[edit]

On January 26, 2023, Antenna Music announced that Sam Kim's father had been killed during the course of an attempted robbery. According to local media, on January 13 (US time), the restaurant owner, Mr. Kim, was shot then transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. With the investigation over the funeral was held on the 24th at the Bonnie Watson Funeral Home in the United States.[14]

Discography

[edit]
Kim performing in 2016

Studio albums

[edit]
Title Album details Peak chart positions Sales (CD)
KOR
[15]
Sun and Moon
  • Released: November 22, 2018
  • Label: Antenna
  • Formats: CD, digital download, vinyl
23

Extended plays

[edit]
Title EP details Peak chart positions Sales (CD)
KOR
[15]
I Am Sam
  • Released: April 10, 2016
  • Label: Antenna
  • Formats: CD, digital download
11

Singles

[edit]
Title Year Peak chart positions Sales (DL)[a] Album
KOR
[18]
As lead artist
"Mama Don't Worry" 2016 I Am Sam
"No Sense" (No 눈치) (featuring Crush) 37
"Make Up" (featuring Crush) 2018 56 Sun and Moon
"It's You" (featuring Zico) 88
"When You Fall" (featuring Chai) Non-album singles
"Where's My Money" 2019
"What About" (featuring Penomeco) 2020
"The Juice" 2021
"These Walls" Ad campaign single
"Look at Me" (바라봐줘요) (George cover) You Hee-yul's Sketchbook:
78th Voice
"Aqua Man" (Beenzino cover)
Collaborations
"For Now" (여기까지) (with Kwon Jin-ah) 2016 17 Love Antenna
"Think About' Chu" (with Loco) (Asoto Union cover) 2017 16 Boys and Girls Music, Vol. 1
"Like a Fool" (with NIve) 2020 Non-album singles
"Everything Is OK (with Antenna Version)"
(with Antenna artists) (Peppertones cover)
"Our Christmas Wish for You" (겨울의 우리들)
(with Antenna artists)
107[b] 2020 Antenna Christmas Carol
"Closer" (with Jukjae and Kwon Jin-ah) 2021 Ad campaign single
"Hello Antenna, Hello Christmas"
(with Antenna artists)
124[c] 2021 Antenna Christmas Carol
"Before 4:30 (She Said...)" (with Mew Suppasit) [d] Non-album single
"Nap Fairy" (낮잠) (with Yeri) 2022 [e] SM Station Season 4
As featured artist
"~42" (Primary feat. Sam Kim, Esna) 2017 44 Shininryu
"23" (Punchnello feat. Sam Kim) 2019 Non-album single
"Bless You" (Primary feat. Sam Kim, Woodz, pH-1) 2020 Paktory Playlist 2020
"Someday" (Raisa feat. Sam Kim) 2021 It's Personal
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released in that region.

Soundtrack appearances

[edit]
Title Year Peak chart positions Sales (DL)[a] Album
KOR
Circle

[18]
KOR
Hot 100

[29][f]
US
World

[30]
"Who Are You" 2016 3 15 Goblin OST

"I Do" (with Kwon Jin-ah)
"Everyday" (with Kwon Jin-ah)
"Cooking"

2017 The Lovebirds: Year 1 OST [ko]
"Scent" (향기) 2019 137 Search: WWW OST
"Breath" () 2020 59 61 It's Okay to Not Be Okay OST
"Love Me Like That" 2021 116 Nevertheless OST
"Summer Rain" (여름비) 2022 37 45 Our Beloved Summer OST
"For You" Cleaning Up OST
"Confession" (고백) [g] Cheer Up OST
"Say You Love Me" (그대라는 봄) 2023 [h] My Demon OST
"Shining You" 2024 [i] Cinderella at 2 AM OST
"Playing Pretend" Love in the Big City Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
"Like a Moonlight" 2025 'My Perfect Secretary' OST Part. 3 '
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released in that region.

Other charted songs

[edit]
Title Artists Year Peak chart positions Album
KOR
Circle

[18]
KOR
Hot 100

[29]
"What Do You Do When You Play?"
(놀면 뭐해?)
Boi B, Gaeko, Choiza, Geegooin, Gray,
Crush, Wonstein, Mommy Son, Zior Park, Sam Kim
2019 62 51 Yoo-plash
"Everest" AKMU with Sam Kim 2021 60 48 Next Episode

Features

[edit]
Title Artists Year Album
"~42" Primary featuring Sam Kim and Esna 2017 Shininryu
"Alright, Summer Time" Loco featuring Sam Kim Summer Go Loco
"We Are" (우리 시작) Lee Jin-ah with Sam Kim, Kwon Jin-ah,
Jung Seung-hwan, Chai
2018 Jinah Restaurant Full Course
"Forever Dumb" Soyoon featuring Sam Kim 2019 So!YoON!
"Color You" Chai featuring Sam Kim Give and Take
"23" Punchnello featuring Sam Kim Non-album single
"Jungle" Punchnello featuring Penomeco, Sam Kim Show Me The Money 8 Final
"Aura" George featuring Sam Kim LEEEE
"Awake" Lee Jin-ah featuring Sam Kim 2020 Candy Pianist
"Bless You" Primary featuring Sam Kim, Woodz, pH-1 Non-album single
"Overthink" Shindrum featuring Sam Kim 2021 Who I Am
"Everest" AKMU with Sam Kim Next Episode
"Someday" Raisa featuring Sam Kim It's Personal
"Midnight" (잘 어울려) Babylon featuring Sam Kim 2022 Ego 90's
"Loveholic's Hangover" Bibi featuring Sam Kim Lowlife Princess: Noir
"Same Same" (너나나나) Jukjae featuring Sam Kim The Lights
"Only U" Kangziwon featuring Sam Kim 2023 Non-album single
"Heaven" Nayeon featuring Sam Kim 2024 Na

Kpop Star 3 songs

[edit]
Year Title Original artist Peak chart positions Sales (DL) Album
KOR
[18]
2014 "I'm in Love" Ra.D K-pop Star Season 3 Battle Audition Part.1
"That XX" (그XX) G-Dragon K-pop Star Season 3 Top10 Part.1
"Billie Jean" Michael Jackson K-pop Star Season 3 Top8
"You're the One" (너 뿐이야) Park Jin-young 37 K-pop Star Season 3 Top6
"Stand by Me" Ben E. King 96 K-pop Star Season 3 Top4
"Honey" Park Jin-young 88 K-pop Star Season 3 Top3
"Lies" (거짓말) Big Bang 77 K-pop Star Season 3 Top2
"Englishman in New York" Sting 37 K-pop Star Season 3 Top2
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released in that region.

Songwriting credits

[edit]

The following credits are adapted from the Korea Music Copyright Association database,[42] unless indicated otherwise.

Songs produced by Sam Kim for other artists
Title Year Artist Album Lyrics Music Arrangement
Credited With Credited With Credited With
"All My Love" (English version)[43] 2020 Park Bo-gum Non-album single Yes Yes Yes Jehwi
"All My Love" (Korean version)[43] Yes Jisoo Park Yes Yes Jehwi
"Someday"[44] 2021 Raisa feat. Sam Kim It's Personal Yes Raisa Yes Raisa, Jukjae Yes Jukjae
"Before 4:30 (She Said…)"[45] 2021 Mew Suppasit,
Sam Kim
Non-album single Yes Yes Yes
"December's Spring" (12월의 봄) 2022 Yun Hu Non-album single No Yes Yes
Songs co-written by Sam Kim for other artists
Title Year Artist Album Lyrics Music Arrangement
Credited With Credited With Credited With
"Ending Scene" 2017 IU Palette No Yes No
"Eternal Sunshine" 2021 Gray feat. Meenoi Grayground. No Yes Gray, Hoody Yes Gray
"Looks Like a Real Thing" (English version)[46] 2022 Jehwi Snowdrop OST Yes No No
"On the Way"[47] 2022 Onew Dice No Yes Cha Cha Malone, Adrian McKinnon, Tay Jasper, Singing Beetle No
"Rain on Me" (우중산책)[48] 2023 Onew Circle No Yes Jisoo Park Yes Jisoo Park
"Echoes" 2024 Jehwi Non-album single Yes Jehwi, SU2 No No

Concerts and tours

[edit]

Headlining concerts

[edit]
  • Sam Kim 1st Concert: Sun and Moon (Seoul; February 16–17, 2019)[49]
  • Sam Kim 2019 Europe Tour (Paris, London, Berlin; April 27–30, 2019)[50]
  • Sam Kim 2019 Concert in Singapore (Singapore; July 26, 2019)[51]
  • 2019 Sam Kim Live: Kunge (Seoul; November 23–24, 2019)[52]

Collaborative concerts

[edit]

As opening act

[edit]

Filmography

[edit]

Television

[edit]
Year Title Network Notes Ref.
2013–2014 K-pop Star 3 SBS Contestant [1]
2016 The Friends in Costa Rica K-STAR Main cast (with Eric Nam and Song Yuvin) [58]
2022 Tripmate: Who Are You? KBS World Main cast [59]

Web shows

[edit]
Year Title Network Notes Ref.
2016 Sam Kim Music Documentary Naver TV, V Live Documentary series produced as a tie-in with My Name Is Sam [60]
2019 Sam Kim & Jung Seung-hwan Self Live Tour YouTube Reality series produced by Visit Singapore and Dingo Travel [61]
2021 Antenna TV: Clumsy Antenna Kakao TV Main cast (with artists from Antenna) [62]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Award Year Category Nominee Result Ref.
Beautiful Mint Life Awards 2016 Best Rookie Sam Kim Won [63]
Grand Mint Festival Awards 2017 Best Rookie Sam Kim Nominated [64]
Melon Music Awards 2016 Best Rookie Sam Kim Nominated [65]
Best Folk/Blues "No Sense" Nominated

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Sam Kim is a Korean-American , , and guitarist renowned for his soulful blend of R&B, pop, , folk, and influences. Born in , in 1998, he first gained widespread recognition in as the runner-up on the third season of the SBS talent competition in 2014, which led to his signing with Antenna Music. Kim made his official debut in 2016 at the age of 18 with the EP , showcasing his guitar skills and emotive vocals through self-written tracks. He followed this with his first full-length album, Sun and Moon, in 2018, which he fully composed, arranged, and produced, earning praise for its introspective lyrics and collaborations with artists like Crush and Zico. Over the years, Kim contributed to soundtracks, including the OST "Love Me Like That" for the drama I Know But... in 2021, and the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial theme song "Closer" with Jukjae and . In March 2024, after a decade with Antenna Music, Kim's exclusive contract concluded amicably, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career. Later that year, on September 20, he signed with Herbigharo, the agency founded by fellow singer , signaling a new phase focused on expanded creative endeavors. As of 2025, Kim continues to release music, including the OST "Like a Moonlight" for the SBS drama Love Scout, solidifying his status as a versatile artist bridging American and Korean music scenes.

Early life

Family background

Sam Kim was born Kim Gun-ji on February 19, 1998, in , to Korean immigrant parents in a Korean-American household. He grew up as the eldest child in a family that emphasized cultural ties to while navigating life in the United States. His father, Hansoo Kim, was a 58-year-old Korean-American entrepreneur who co-owned and operated Rainier , a family-run in Seattle's Rainier Valley neighborhood, reflecting the common immigrant experience of establishing small businesses in the local community. Tragically, Hansoo Kim was fatally shot during an armed robbery at the on January 14, 2023, an event that deeply affected the family and prompted Sam Kim to adapt his song "Don't Worry"—originally written for his mother—to honor his father's memory. Following the incident, his younger brother Jooyoung reopened the in April 2023 to continue the family legacy. Sam Kim has two younger siblings: a sister named Sujin and a brother named Jooyoung, with whom he shares a close bond, often highlighted in lighthearted family interactions shared through media appearances. His mother, whose name has not been publicly disclosed, has been a supportive figure in his life, particularly noted in his songwriting inspirations. The family's bilingual environment and emphasis on music fostered Kim's early interests, blending American and Korean influences from a young age.

Education and early interests

Sam Kim spent his early years in Federal Way, Washington, as the eldest of three siblings. From a young age, music became integral to his life. Kim attended Todd Beamer High School in Federal Way, during which his passion for music deepened significantly. He frequently skipped classes to roam the hallways with his guitar in hand, performing covers of favorite songs for classmates and demonstrating an emerging talent as a guitarist and vocalist. This period marked the shift to more self-expressive pursuits, including acoustic performances that highlighted his prodigious guitar skills. At age 15, in 2013, Kim relocated to after passing preliminary auditions, a move that propelled his musical ambitions forward. Shortly after arriving, he auditioned for the third season of the SBS talent show , accompanying himself on and advancing to become the runner-up. This exposure not only validated his early dedication to music but also ignited his interest in songwriting and production within the industry.

Career

K-pop Star 3 and debut

Sam Kim, a Korean-American singer-songwriter born in 1998 in Seattle, Washington, gained early prominence through his participation in the third season of SBS's audition program K-pop Star in 2014. At age 15, he auditioned in Los Angeles and advanced to the main competition in South Korea, showcasing his guitar skills and soulful vocals that blended R&B influences with acoustic elements. Throughout the competition, Kim impressed judges and audiences with distinctive covers, including a reimagined version of Big Bang's "Lie" infused with his personal flair and Sting's "," which highlighted his groove-oriented guitar performance and emotional depth. His ability to merge Western pop sensibilities with K-pop's energy earned him a dedicated fanbase, leading him to the finals where he competed against . On April 13, 2014, Kim finished as runner-up, with Park declared the winner. Following the show, Kim signed with Antenna Music, the label headed by judge and producer Yoo Hee-yeol, who recognized his potential as a . This affiliation provided a platform for his professional development over the next two years, during which he honed his songwriting and production skills. Kim made his official debut under Antenna on April 10, 2016, with the EP , following a pre-release part titled My Name Is Sam on March 28, 2016. The full EP featured six tracks, led by the single "No Sense" (NO눈치) featuring Crush, which peaked at number 37 on the Gaon Digital Chart and showcased Kim's introspective lyrics about relationships over smooth R&B production. Other notable tracks included "," a nod to his hometown, and "Mama Don't Worry," emphasizing themes of familial reassurance. The release marked Kim's transition from contestant to established , blending acoustic folk with to establish his signature sound.

Antenna Music years (2016–2023)

In 2016, Sam Kim made his official debut under Antenna Music with the EP I Am Sam, released on April 10, following a pre-release mini-album My Name Is Sam on March 28 that featured self-composed tracks including the single "Mama Don't Worry." The EP showcased his soulful vocals and guitar skills, blending R&B, pop, and indie elements, and marked his transition from audition show contestant to professional artist. Later that year, he contributed the track "Who Are You" to the soundtrack of the popular drama Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin), released on December 25, which became one of the OST's standout songs and helped elevate his profile in the K-drama music scene. Throughout 2017 and 2018, Kim continued building his catalog with collaborations and his first full-length album. He teamed up with labelmate Kwon Jin Ah for "For Now" and "Everyday" on the The Lovebirds: Year 1 X Antenna OST, highlighting his versatility in duet formats. His debut studio album Sun and Moon, released on November 22, 2018, featured eight tracks including the collaborative single "Make Up" with Crush, emphasizing themes of love and introspection through acoustic and R&B influences; the album peaked in the top 30 on South Korean charts. From 2019 to 2023, Kim shifted focus toward soundtrack contributions and singles, becoming a sought-after voice for K-dramas while occasionally releasing standalone work under Antenna. Notable OSTs included "Scent" for Search: WWW (2019), "Breathe" for It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020), and multiple 2021 releases such as "Love Me Like That" for Nevertheless—which went viral with over 170 million streams and topped charts due to its emotional resonance with the series' themes—"I Just Want to Stay with You" for , and the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial theme song "Closer" in collaboration with Jukjae and . In 2022, he provided "With You" for , further solidifying his reputation for crafting poignant, drama-synced ballads. Collaborations during this period included "Think About' Chu" with Loco (2018) and "Like a Fool" with (2020), often featuring his production touch. Kim also participated in Antenna's annual Christmas projects, such as the 2020 single "We in Winter." By early 2023, amid growing international recognition, Antenna announced the end of his exclusive contract, effective March 2024, after nearly a decade of partnership that shaped his indie-R&B sound.

Label transition and recent projects (2024–present)

In March 2024, after a decade-long tenure with Antenna Music, Sam Kim's exclusive contract expired, leading to an amicable parting of ways that allowed him to pursue new opportunities as an independent artist. During this transitional period, he continued contributing to s, including the release of "Shining You" on August 25, 2024, as part of the original television for the drama Cinderella at 2 AM, where his soulful underscored key emotional scenes. On September 20, 2024, Kim signed an exclusive contract with Herbigharo, the agency founded by veteran singer , marking a significant shift toward a label known for supporting artist-driven projects and ballad-oriented talents. Under this new affiliation, he expanded his soundtrack work with "Playing Pretend," released on September 24, 2024, for the film Love in the Big City, a poignant track reflecting themes of urban romance and introspection that complemented the movie's narrative. Extending into 2025, Kim's contributions remained focused on dramatic OSTs, notably "Like a Moonlight" on January 11, 2025, for the series Love Scout, a gentle R&B-infused piece that highlighted his signature melodic sensitivity and earned praise for enhancing the show's romantic tension. These releases underscore his ongoing role as a sought-after for visual media, blending his production skills with Herbigharo's emphasis on emotional depth, while he marked his ninth debut anniversary in April 2025 with fan engagements via the agency's platforms.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Sam Kim was born on February 19, 1998, in , to Korean parents who had immigrated to the . His father, Hansoo Kim, owned and operated the Rainier Teriyaki restaurant in alongside his wife. On , 2023, Hansoo Kim was fatally shot in the chest during an armed robbery at the restaurant when he intervened to protect his wife from one of the assailants; he was 58 years old at the time of his death. Kim has a younger sister named Sujin, whom he has described as academically smart, and a younger brother named Jooyoung, whom he has called the "baby of the family" who requires extra affection. He maintains a close bond with his mother and siblings, often referencing the challenges of leaving them behind in the U.S. when he moved to at age 15 to train as a . Details about Kim's romantic relationships remain private, with no confirmed public information available from credible sources.

Health challenges and hiatus

In early 2022, following the release of his soundtrack contribution "Summer Rain" for (Original Television Soundtrack, Pt. 8) in January, Sam Kim entered an extended hiatus primarily from promotional activities and music shows, marking a significant pause after nearly a decade in the industry. This period aligned with his departure from Antenna Music in March 2024, after ten years with the label, during which he had built a reputation for soulful R&B and acoustic releases. He continued to contribute soundtrack songs during this time, including "Say You Love Me" for in 2023 and "Shining You" for Cinderella at 2 AM in 2024. The hiatus from music shows lasted approximately four years, with Kim making his first such appearance in June 2025 on KBS2TV's The Seasons – ’s Cantabile. The primary catalyst for Kim's break was burnout, stemming from intense self-imposed pressure and ambition in his craft. In a 2025 , he reflected, “Because I love music so much, I started to want more from myself and got overly ambitious. That eventually led to burnout.” This was compounded by profound personal tragedy: in January 2023, his father, Hansoo Kim, was fatally shot during an armed robbery at the family-owned Rainier Teriyaki restaurant in . Kim briefly addressed fans in February 2023 via , stating he was “going through a bit of a hard time” but working diligently amid the , without detailing specific health impacts beyond the evident emotional strain. No physical health conditions were publicly disclosed during this time, though earlier discussions in a 2021 highlighted recurring slumps and burnout as ongoing challenges in his career. By mid-2025, Kim expressed renewed optimism, noting that his “relationship with music has improved a bit” and committing to a fresh start. This return emphasized a more balanced approach to his artistry, allowing him to resume and projects without the previous intensity that contributed to his withdrawal.

Artistry

Musical style and themes

Sam Kim's musical style is characterized by a blend of R&B, , and folk elements, often accentuated by his signature work and soothing vocals. He incorporates neo- influences in tracks that emphasize emotional depth, while experimenting with fusions of , rock, , and to create versatile soundscapes. Over time, Kim has expanded into and hip-hop territories, as seen in his 2022 releases like "," produced with Dutch DJ , marking his first foray into upbeat . His production approach is spontaneous and collaborative, drawing from personal experiences and partnerships with artists such as Crush and Zico, which allow him to shift seamlessly between rhythmic, guitar-driven ballads and more experimental pieces. Thematically, Kim's lyrics frequently explore , relationships, and , reflecting mature and introspective narratives that resonate with listeners navigating emotional turmoil. Songs often delve into the complexities of romance, such as lovers' quarrels in "Someday" or the pain of unrequited affection in "Love Me Like That," an OST for the drama Nevertheless that he wrote during a personal rough patch. Broader personal themes include family bonds, as in "Mama Don’t Worry," and feelings of loneliness and insecurity, particularly in "," which captures his experiences relocating to . These motifs are enhanced by his OST contributions, like "Breath" for It's Okay to Not Be Okay, where he conveys healing and emotional release through heartfelt delivery, and more recent works such as the 2021 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial theme song "Closer" (with Jukjae and ) and the 2025 OST "Like a " for the SBS drama Love Scout, which continue to emphasize relational introspection. Kim's influences, including Stevie Wonder's soulful balladry and Kendrick Lamar's hip-hop introspection, inform his ability to infuse vulnerability into diverse genres, evolving from folk-R&B roots in his 2018 album Sun and Moon to more genre-bending works in recent projects. This progression underscores his commitment to authentic storytelling, prioritizing emotional connection over rigid stylistic boundaries.

Influences and production approach

Sam Kim's musical influences span a wide array of genres, reflecting his Korean-American background and exposure to both Western and Korean artists. He has cited as a significant inspiration, particularly admiring the soulful ballad "Overjoyed" for its emotional depth and melodic structure. Additionally, Kim draws from progressive metal guitarist , whose intricate guitar work influences his own guitar-driven compositions, as seen in tracks like "No Sense." In the hip-hop realm, serves as his primary go-to artist, while the neo-soul and funk revival of —featuring and —shapes his rhythmic and groovy elements. Within Korean music, he looks to ballad singer for vocal expressiveness and emotional delivery. Early covers of artists like BIGBANG and Sting during his time on K-pop Star 3 further highlight his genre-blending roots in R&B, hip-hop, and pop. Kim's production approach emphasizes spontaneity and , often beginning with to capture raw ideas before layering in electronic or orchestral elements. He describes his process as unstructured, stating, "Whatever comes out is what comes out," allowing personal vulnerability to guide the outcome rather than adhering to a rigid formula. For instance, in producing "" (2022), he started with a guitar demo and then partnered with Dutch DJ to infuse production, transforming it into an upbeat track suitable for global audiences. Similarly, collaborations with producers like Simon Pétren on songs such as "The Juice" (2021) involve detailed breakdowns of musicality, focusing on mix and mastering to enhance his R&B core. His label at the time, Antenna, aided in conceptualizing releases by selecting from his extensive song bank, ensuring thematic cohesion without stifling creativity. In songwriting, Kim prioritizes emotional authenticity, drawing from personal experiences like family dynamics in "Mama Don’t Worry" (2021) or relational introspection in OST contributions such as "Love Me Like That" for Nevertheless. He writes prolifically, often co-authoring tracks—eight on his album Sun and Moon (2018)—and adapts to OST demands by deeply analyzing lyrics to convey narrative emotion. This method has led to versatile outputs, from neo-soul ballads to hip-hop-infused singles like "Someday" with Raisa (2021), co-produced with Jukjae to blend R&B with Southeast Asian sensibilities.

Discography

Studio albums

Sam Kim's debut studio album, Sun and Moon, was released on November 22, 2018, by Antenna Music. The full-length project marked his first major release following the 2016 EP I Am Sam, showcasing his evolution as a with a blend of R&B, pop, and acoustic elements. Produced primarily by Kim himself, the album features collaborations with prominent artists, including Zico on "It's You" and Crush on "Make Up," highlighting his growing network in the Korean music scene. It debuted and peaked in the top 30 on South Korea's Gaon Album Chart, reflecting solid initial commercial reception for an independent release. The album consists of eight tracks, all written and composed by Kim, emphasizing introspective themes of , longing, and personal growth. The title track "Sun and Moon" opens with a soulful acoustic , setting a reflective tone. "It's You," serving as the , incorporates hip-hop influences through Zico's verse and has garnered over 10 million streams on platforms like . Other notable songs include "Make Up," a smooth R&B with Crush exploring reconciliation, and "Sunny Days, Summer Nights" (그 여름밤), which evokes nostalgic summer vibes with minimalistic guitar work. Tracks like "The One" and "Would You Believe" demonstrate Kim's and production versatility, while "If" closes the album on an emotive, piano-driven note.
No.TitleFeatured ArtistLength
1"Sun and Moon"-5:01
2"It's You"Zico4:17
3"Make Up"Crush3:27
4"Sunny Days, Summer Nights" (그 여름밤)-4:09
5"The One"-4:19
6"Would You Believe"-3:42
7"Apathy" (무기력)-3:58
8"If"-4:12
Sun and Moon received praise for its authentic songwriting and Kim's guitar-centric production, establishing him as a key figure in the indie R&B space. The album's singles, including pre-release "The Juice," contributed to its streaming success, with the project accumulating millions of plays globally by 2025. As of November 2025, it remains Kim's sole studio , with subsequent releases focusing on EPs, singles, and soundtrack contributions.

Extended plays

Sam Kim's debut extended play, , was released on April 10, 2016, by Antenna Music, marking his entry into the music industry as a Korean-American and . The EP features six tracks, primarily composed, written, and arranged by Kim himself, blending with folk and elements to establish his signature introspective style. Recorded at Antenna Studio in , it reflects Kim's transition from high school performances to professional recording, emphasizing live-band over heavy digital production. The tracklist includes:
No.TitleFeatured artist(s)Length
1"No Sense"Crush3:39
2"Dance"3:09
3"Touch My Body"3:24
4"Mama Don't Worry"4:05
5"Seattle"5:08
6"Your Song", Jung Seung-hwan, 3:28
The , "No Sense," featuring rapper Crush, served as the promotional title track and exemplifies Kim's ability to fuse smooth vocals with collaborative rap verses, drawing attention for its nostalgic yet youthful vibe. Other standout tracks like "" showcase longer, atmospheric arrangements inspired by personal experiences, while the collaborative closer "" highlights Kim's connections within the . Critics praised the EP for its warm, organic sound and Kim's multifaceted role in its creation, noting it as a promising debut that avoids overproduced trends in favor of genuine emotional expression. The release peaked at number 11 on the Gaon Album Chart, providing early context for Kim's growing domestic presence.

Singles as lead artist

Sam Kim has released several digital singles as a lead artist, often blending R&B, pop, and elements to explore personal emotions and relationships. These tracks frequently served as standalone releases or precursors to his larger projects, highlighting his songwriting and production skills without reliance on soundtrack affiliations. His debut single era began in 2018 with promotional releases tied to his Sun and Moon, including "Sun and Moon Part. 1," a mellow track emphasizing introspection, and "When You Fall" featuring Chai, which incorporates light electronic touches for a collaborative vibe. By 2019, he ventured into more upbeat territory with "Where's My Money," a funky, bass-driven song reflecting everyday frustrations. In 2020, "What About?" featuring marked a shift toward hip-hop-infused R&B, delving into relational doubts with raw . The following year brought two introspective releases: "The Juice" in June, a smooth, groove-oriented track about desire and connection, and "These Walls" in July, a vulnerable piece on emotional barriers. No additional original singles as lead artist followed through 2025, with his focus shifting toward collaborations and soundtracks.
TitleRelease YearFeatured Artist(s)Notes
Sun and Moon Part. 12018NonePre-release single for Sun and Moon album
When You Fall2018ChaiPromotional single with electronic influences
Where's My Money2019NoneStandalone funky R&B track
What About?2020Hip-hop R&B exploration of relationships
The Juice2021NoneGroove-focused single on desire
These Walls2021NoneIntrospective track on

Soundtrack contributions

Sam Kim has established himself as a prominent contributor to original soundtracks (OSTs) for Korean dramas and films, leveraging his emotive R&B style to underscore themes of love, longing, and introspection. His OST work often features intimate ballads that resonate with audiences, frequently achieving viral success on streaming platforms and . Beginning with his debut in , Kim's contributions have spanned over a dozen projects, collaborating with artists like and appearing in high-profile series produced by major networks such as tvN and . One of his earliest and most impactful works is "" from the fantasy romance (Goblin), released as Part 6 of the OST in December 2016. The song's melancholic melody and lyrics exploring destiny and reunion captured the drama's ethereal tone, contributing to its status as a cultural phenomenon with millions of streams. In , Kim collaborated with vocalist on multiple tracks for the web drama The Lovebirds: Year 1, including the lead single "I Do," which blends and harmonious vocals to evoke newlywed bliss. This EP marked his first extensive OST project, showcasing his versatility in duo performances. Kim's 2019 contribution "Scent" (향기) to Search: WWW (OST Part 4) highlights his growth as a songwriter, with its subtle influences and themes of subtle attraction aligning with the series' modern workplace romance. The track peaked at number 137 on the Gaon Digital Chart, underscoring its commercial appeal. His 2020 release "Breath" (숨) for It's Okay to Not Be Okay (OST Part 2) became a fan favorite, its gentle piano-driven arrangement complementing the drama's exploration of and healing. The song amassed over 4 million views shortly after release, praised for its therapeutic quality. The 2021 track "Love Me Like That" from Nevertheless (OST Part 6) marked a viral breakthrough, blending indie R&B with vulnerable about insecurity in relationships. Featured in the series' hyper-realistic romance narrative, it garnered widespread acclaim and propelled Kim's international recognition. Subsequent works include "Summer Rain" (여름비) for (OST Part 8) in 2022, a nostalgic reflecting on past loves that enhanced the reunion rom-com's wistful vibe; "For You" and "" (고백) for Cleaning Up and Cheer Up respectively, both from 2022, emphasizing themes of support and vulnerability; and "Say You Love Me" (그대라는 봄) for (OST Part 5) in 2023, a tender duet-style piece for the fantasy romance. In 2024, Kim expanded into film with "Playing Pretend" for Love in the Big City, a poignant track about hidden emotions in urban life, and "Shining You" for the drama at 2AM, an uplifting melody suited to its Cinderella-inspired rom-com plot. These releases continued his streak of chart-topping OSTs, solidifying his role as a go-to artist for emotional depth in Korean media. In 2025, he contributed "Like a Moonlight" to the SBS drama Love Scout OST Part 3, further bridging his soulful style with dramatic narratives.
YearTitleProjectLabel/Network
2016"Who Are You"Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin) OST Part 6tvN / CJ E&M
2017"I Do" (with Kwon Jin-ah)The Lovebirds: Year 1 OSTAntenna
2017"Everyday" (with Kwon Jin-ah)The Lovebirds: Year 1 OSTAntenna
2017"Cooking (Guitar Version)"The Lovebirds: Year 1 OSTAntenna
2019"Scent" (향기)Search: WWW OST Part 4tvN / Genie Music
2020"Breath" (숨)It's Okay to Not Be Okay OST Part 2tvN / Stone Music
2021"Love Me Like That"Nevertheless OST Part 6JTBC / Warner Music Korea
2022"Summer Rain" (여름비)Our Beloved Summer OST Part 8SBS / Genie Music
2022"For You"Cleaning Up OST Part 1JTBC / Warner Music Korea
2022"Confession" (고백)Cheer Up OST Part 2SBS / Warner Music Korea
2023"Say You Love Me" (그대라는 봄)My Demon OST Part 5SBS / Warner Music Korea
2024"Playing Pretend"Love in the Big City OSTFilm / Warner Music Korea
2024"Shining You"Cinderella at 2AM OST Part 2TVING / Mystic Story
2025"Like a Moonlight"Love Scout OST Part 3SBS / Warner Music Korea

Guest features and other songs

Sam Kim has frequently collaborated as a featured on tracks by other musicians, contributing his signature soulful vocals and guitar work to a diverse range of genres including R&B, pop, and indie. These guest appearances often highlight his versatility in blending with established Korean artists as well as international talents, expanding his reach beyond his solo . Early in his career, Kim featured on "For Now" (여기까지) alongside , released in July 2016 as part of Antenna Music's Love Antenna Project; the duet explores themes of parting ways amicably, with Kim's harmonies complementing Kwon’s emotive delivery. In 2017, he collaborated twice with rapper Loco under : first on "Think About' Chu" from the Boys and Girls Music Vol. 1 single in , a laid-back track reminiscing about youthful romance, and later on "Alright, Summer Time" from Loco's Summer Go Loco EP in August, capturing carefree seasonal vibes through breezy production. Kim's features continued to gain prominence in the late and early . On So!YoON!'s 2019 album So!YoON!, he provided backing vocals and co-writing credits for "Forever Dumb," an introspective piece about embracing simplicity amid chaos. In 2020, he joined on "Like a Fool" from the latter's debut EP, a melancholic R&B track delving into , and participated in the Antenna collective cover "Everything Is OK (with Antenna Ver.)," a uplifting rendition of ' original featuring multiple labelmates like and Jung Seung Hwan to spread positivity during the pandemic. In late 2021, Kim collaborated with Jukjae and on "Closer," the theme song for the 2021 Seoul UN Peacekeeping Ministerial, a hopeful track promoting and . Venturing internationally, Kim teamed up with Indonesian singer Raisa on "Someday" in November 2021, a poignant about unspoken feelings co-produced by Kim and arranger Jukjae, marking his first major Southeast Asian crossover. That same year, he featured on Thai artist Mew Suppasit's "Before 4:30 (She Said…)," an English-language single released in December that conveys anxious anticipation in romance, further showcasing Kim's global appeal. More recent collaborations include his 2022 feature on BIBI's "Loveholic's Hangover" from the album Lowlife Princess: Noir, where his smooth ad-libs enhance the song's hazy exploration of addictive love. In November 2022, Kim appeared on Jukjae's "Same Same (너나 나나)" from the album The LIGHTS, a reflective indie-folk track about shared human experiences. He continued with "only u" by Kangziwon in April 2023, a dreamy pop song about singular devotion co-written by the duo. In , Kim featured on TWICE member NAYEON's "" from her EP NA, a soaring pop-R&B emphasizing and joy that peaked at number 8 on the Circle Digital Chart. These features underscore Kim's role in bridging indie and mainstream scenes.

Performances

Headlining concerts and tours

Sam Kim's headlining performances began in 2019, marking the start of his solo concert career following the release of his debut studio album Sun and Moon. His first major outing was a two-night show in Seoul, titled Sam Kim 1st Concert: Sun and Moon, held on February 16 and 17 at Samsung Hall in . The concerts featured a setlist drawn primarily from the album, including tracks like "Sun and Moon" and "Your Song," performed with a full band to an audience of around 1,000 per night. Building on this success, Kim embarked on his first international tour, the Sam Kim 2019 Europe Tour, spanning three cities over four days in late April. The tour kicked off on April 27 at Trabendo in , followed by April 28 at Electric Ballroom in , and concluded on April 30 at Columbia Theater in . Organized by Cult of Ya, these intimate venues—each with capacities under 1,500—highlighted Kim's acoustic and R&B style, with fans noting his engaging covers and originals like "Think About' Chu." The tour received positive reception for its raw, personal energy, solidifying Kim's growing international presence. Later that year, Kim extended his Sun and Moon promotions to with a standalone headlining in on July 26 at , organized by Cross Ratio Entertainment. Billed as his first solo show in the , it drew a sold-out crowd of 1,000, featuring hits such as "" and interactive fan segments. Kim expressed appreciation for the enthusiastic local support during the performance. Kim's second Seoul-based headliner, 2019 Sam Kim Live: Kunge, took place on November 23 and 24 at Blue Square iMarket Hall, accommodating about 800 attendees each evening. The setlist expanded to include newer material and covers, with Kim handling vocals and guitar alongside a live band, emphasizing his versatile songwriting. These shows, produced by Antenna Music, showcased his evolution as a performer post-album release. Following 2019, Kim's headlining activities shifted toward festival and collaborative appearances amid his label transition from Antenna to independent status in 2024. A planned solo concert, Sam Kim 2024 Live in Jakarta, set for March 9 at Balai Sarbini, was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, marking his intended debut in Indonesia. As of late 2025, no further headlining tours have been announced.

Festival and collaborative appearances

Sam Kim has made several notable appearances at music festivals across Asia and Europe, showcasing his soulful R&B style to diverse audiences. In 2019, he performed at the Rainbow Music & Camping Festival in South Korea, where he delivered hits like "The One" amid a lineup featuring artists such as Zion.T and Jannabi. His set contributed to the event's blend of live music and outdoor camping, emphasizing intimate, nature-inspired performances. In 2022, Kim took the stage at HallyuPopFest London at the OVO Arena Wembley, performing a set including "It's You," "These Walls," "Rainy Days," "Seattle," and "The Juice." The festival highlighted artists, with Kim joining acts like Chen, Astro, and on Day 1. The following year, at the 2023 Seoul Jazz Festival held at Olympic Park, he captivated attendees with songs such as "Love Me Like That" and "That Summer Night," aligning his smooth vocals with the event's -infused atmosphere. Kim's international reach expanded in 2023 with a performance at the in , , where he collaborated live with Indonesian singer Raisa on "Someday" for the first time. This duet marked a highlight of , blending their styles before a crowd at alongside performers like and . In 2025, he appeared at Beautiful Mint Life in Seoul's Olympic Park, delivering a set on the Mint Breeze Stage that included "Playing Pretend" and other tracks, sharing the bill with artists like and Yuju. Later that year, at the SBS Gayo Daejeon Summer: Unipop edition in , Kim performed "Like a Fool" as part of the Unipop lineup, which focused on ballad and OST artists including Solar and Paul Kim. His participation underscored his prominence in soundtracks. More recently, in October 2025, Kim headlined a night at the KOOM Festival in , New York, performing a full set that resonated with the Korean-American community and startup enthusiasts at the event. These festival outings, often featuring acoustic elements and emotional ballads, have solidified Kim's reputation for connecting with global fans through live settings. While primarily solo, his rare collaborative moments, like the one with Raisa, demonstrate his versatility in joint performances.

Television performances

Sam Kim gained widespread recognition through his participation in the third season of SBS's audition program K-pop Star in 2013–2014, where he competed as a 15-year-old Korean-American contestant and ultimately finished as runner-up, earning a contract with Antenna Music. His performances on the show highlighted his guitar skills and soulful R&B style, blending covers of classic tracks with original flair. After signing with Antenna, Kim made his solo debut in 2016 and promoted his single "No Sense" (featuring Crush) on major music programs, including a debut stage on SBS Inkigayo on April 17, 2016, where he delivered an energetic rendition emphasizing the track's smooth R&B production. This appearance marked his entry into promotional cycles for subsequent releases like the EP I Am Sam, often featuring live band setups to showcase his songwriting and vocal range. Throughout his career, Kim has been a frequent guest on KBS's long-running music Yu Huiyeol's Sketchbook, known for its intimate stage format. Notable performances include a 2017 collaboration with Primary and on the soulful track "~42," performed on September 20, which blended jazzy elements and harmonious vocals. He returned in 2018 for solo renditions of "No Sense" and "It's You" (featuring Zico), demonstrating his interpretive depth, and again in 2021 for "The Juice," his 2021 single, aired on June 25. These appearances underscored his versatility, from collaborative sessions to stripped-down acoustics. In more recent years, Kim has continued to appear on variety music programs, including Arirang TV's in 2021, where he discussed his creative process and performed hits like "Love Me Like That" from the Nevertheless OST. In 2025, he guested on KBS2's The Seasons: Park Bo-gum's Cantabile, performing "Star" and dueting "Same Same" with host on June 20, sharing insights on his hiatus and artistic . These television outings have consistently amplified his discography's reach, prioritizing emotional delivery over high-energy .

Other ventures

Songwriting credits for others

Sam Kim has contributed songwriting and production to numerous tracks by other artists, often blending , R&B, and soul influences in his compositions (as of November 2025). His early work includes composing the music for IU's "Ending Scene" from her 2017 album Palette, where he provided the melody while IU handled the lyrics, marking one of his first high-profile credits in the industry. In the same year, he composed instrumental pieces for Lee Jin-ah's contributions to the soundtrack The Lovebirds: Year 1 X Antenna, including "Good Morning (Piano Solo)" and "Good Night (Piano Trio)", showcasing his piano-driven arrangements. By 2019, Kim expanded his collaborations, co-writing and co-composing "Forever Dumb" for So!YoON!'s self-titled album, a track that emphasizes carefree living with his feature on vocals. He also lent lyrics and composition to Punchnello's "23", a reflective single about youth and worries, and "" from Show Me the Money 8 Final, highlighting his versatility in hip-hop-infused projects. These efforts were followed in 2020 by composing "Like a Fool" for and co-writing "Awake" for Lee Jin-ah's Candy Pianist. Kim's production role grew in 2021, where he co-composed and arranged "Eternal Sunshine" for Gray's album Grayground., a nostalgic track featuring , and served as writer, arranger, and producer for Mew Suppasit's "Before 4:30 (She Said…)", an English-language collaboration exploring anxious romance. He also co-wrote and co-composed "Overthink" for SHINDRUM's Who Am I. In 2023, Kim co-composed and arranged SHINee's Onew's "Rain On Me" from the album Circle, contributing to its emotional ballad style. Most recently, in 2024, he co-wrote "Heaven" for Nayeon's mini-album NA, a duet that captures rediscovering love.
YearArtistSongCreditAlbum/Single
2017IU"Ending Scene"ComposerPalette
2017"Good Morning (Piano Solo)"ComposerThe Lovebirds: Year 1 X Antenna (OST)
2017"Good Night (Piano Trio)"ComposerThe Lovebirds: Year 1 X Antenna (OST)
2019So!YoON!"Forever Dumb" (feat. Sam Kim)Co-writer, Co-composerSo!YoON!
2019"23" (feat. Sam Kim)Co-writer, Co-composerSingle
2019"Jungle" (feat. , Sam Kim)Co-writerShow Me the Money 8 Final
2020"Like a Fool"ComposerSingle
2020"Awake" (feat. Sam Kim)Co-writerCandy Pianist
2021Gray"Eternal Sunshine" (feat. )Co-composer, ArrangerGrayground.
2021Mew Suppasit"Before 4:30 (She Said…)" (feat. Sam Kim)Writer, Arranger, ProducerSingle
2021SHINDRUM"Overthink" (feat. Sam Kim)Co-writer, Co-composerWho Am I
2023"Rain On Me"Co-composer, ArrangerCircle
2024"Heaven" (feat. Sam Kim)Co-writerNA

Media and filmography

Following his debut, Kim frequently appeared on music performance shows, including multiple episodes of on KBS2. In April 2016, shortly after releasing his debut EP, he performed tracks from and discussed his career path. He returned in November 2018 to perform "Make Up" and "It's You," highlighting his soulful guitar work and vocal style. On Immortal Songs 2 (KBS2), Kim delivered notable covers in 2016, collaborating with Yangpa on Yoo Jae-ha's "Because I Love You" in July, which showcased their harmonious vocals, and performing a guitar-driven rendition of Chris Norman's "I'll Meet You at Midnight" in September. He also covered "Chupung Pass" in a later episode, emphasizing his interpretive approach to classic songs. In variety programming, Kim joined the music project segment of How Do You Play? (MBC) in 2019, contributing to the group Yoo-plash alongside artists like Crush, Gray, and Zion.T; the ensemble released the track "How Do You Play?" and participated in drum challenges led by host Yoo Jae-suk. Kim expanded into reality formats with Antenna TV: Clumsy Antenna on Kakao TV in 2021, serving as a regular member in this variety series featuring Antenna label artists engaging in comedic challenges and music activities across 24 episodes. He guested on The Game Caterers (tvN) in episodes 3 and 4 of its 2021 season, playing games with fellow musicians like Kwon Jin-ah and Lee Jin-ah. In 2022, Kim starred as a regular member on the international travel reality show Tripmate: Who Are You? (), joining celebrities from for adventures in , including a trip to that fostered cross-cultural friendships. More recently, in 2025, Kim appeared on The Seasons: Park Bo Gum's (KBS2), opening up about his musical hiatus and performing select tracks in episode 15. Kim has no credited film roles, with his media presence centered on television music and variety formats that align with his identity.

Awards and nominations

Major awards won

Sam Kim has received select accolades early in his career, primarily in the form of editorial and discovery recognitions as well as industry awards. In , following his debut, the mini-album My Name Is Sam was chosen as Naver Music's "This Week's Discovery Album" for the week of April 3, highlighting his emergence as a promising new artist. That same year, he won Best Rookie at the Beautiful Mint Life Awards. In 2018, his sophomore album Sun and Moon earned inclusion in IZM magazine's Editors' Choice selections for the year, praised by critic Park Sujin for its emotional depth and musical maturity. As of November 2025, these remain among his notable wins in specialized music media circles and early career recognitions, underscoring his critical reception within South Korea's indie and R&B scenes.

Notable nominations

Sam Kim has received several notable nominations throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to R&B, soul, and OST work in the Korean music industry. These accolades highlight his early breakthrough as a rookie artist and his later impact on drama soundtracks and album releases. In 2016, shortly after his debut, Kim was nominated for Best New Artist at the , competing against prominent newcomers like , Bolbbalgan4, and , which underscored his rapid rise following his appearance on Season 3. He was also nominated in the Best Folk/Blues (Indie) category at the same awards for his single "No Sense," reflecting the song's emotional depth and acoustic style that resonated with listeners. For his 2021 OST contribution, Kim earned a for Best at the (held in 2023) for "Summer Rain" from the drama , a track that blended soulful vocals with nostalgic themes and charted prominently on music platforms. More recently, at the 34th in 2025, Kim was nominated again for Best for "Playing Pretend" from the film Love in the Big City, praising the song's melancholic melody and its role in enhancing the movie's emotional narrative.
YearAwardCategoryWorkSource
2016Melon Music AwardsBest New ArtistN/ASeoulbeats
2016Melon Music AwardsBest Folk/Blues (Indie)"No Sense"Omonatheydidnt
2023Seoul Music Awards (32nd)Best OST"Summer Rain" (Our Beloved Summer)Soompi
2025Seoul Music Awards (34th)Best OST"Playing Pretend" (Love in the Big City)IB Times

References

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