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Tim (singer)
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Key Information
| Korean name | |
| Hangul | 황영민 |
|---|---|
| RR | Hwang Yeongmin |
| MR | Hwang Yŏngmin |
Hwang Young-min (Korean: 황영민; born December 23, 1981),[1] best known as Tim (팀), is a Korean-American singer based in South Korea.[2] He is referred to as South Korea's "ballad prince."[3] He debuted in 2003 with the album, First Tim, which included the hit ballad, "I Love You."[4]
Life and career
[edit]Early life and works
[edit]Tim was born in Philadelphia and raised just west of the city in Upper Darby to a Christian family with his father as a pastor for a local church, and has four brothers. He was exposed to a musical environment early on as a child. At his father's church, he naturally learned to play various instruments like the saxophone and piano. Throughout his childhood, Tim pursued musical activities in both schools and churches, as a member of the church choir and a saxophonist in the school jazz band. However, until he was picked up by an entertainment agency, he had never thought of becoming a professional singer. During his high school career, Tim also modeled and acted.
Prior to his singing debut, however, Tim was in charge of an MTV Korea program called "Tim's World" (started on December 2, 2002) which showed documentaries on the path and struggles of new singers like himself.
Debut
[edit]The story told as by Tim has it that at the age of 20, Tim was approached by a Korean pop music producer (the son of a fellow church member). After listening to a tape, it was requested that Tim fly to Korea for a full audition to make a debut as a pop singer in Korea. Though he and his family had a very conservative background, Tim decided to fly to Seoul alone for the first time, give up his life as a college student and try his hand at becoming a Korean pop singer. Having never had visited Korea until he graduated high school, Tim spent the first two years in Korea focusing on learning the Korean language and preparing for his debut as a singer. While training for his debut album, Tim was very fortunate to have met Yoon Sang, one of the top songwriters in Korea and also a great senior and mentor as a singer. Yoon Sang wrote "사랑합니다 (I Love You)," a soft ballad that matches Tim's voice and image perfectly. Tim was supported by Yoon Sang in creating his musical style, and his debut album (released April 21, 2003 by Yejeon Media) received great response. Tim began gaining great recognition in the local pop music market when senior ballad singers like Shin Seung Hun commented favorably on Tim's music. His second album Second Breath was able to mirror the success of his first album with the hits "Gomawottago. .. (I Was Thankful)" and "Iyagi (The Story)."
He has since appeared on a number of Korean variety shows such as Love Letter, Strong Heart, X-Man, Star Golden Bell, and Heroine 6.
TV Series: "SARANGHAE, I LOVE YOU" with Revalina S. Temat (2012)
Personal life
[edit]In 2020, Tim married businesswoman Kim Bo-ra, with whom he had been in a relationship for 8 years.[5] Later, on March 29, 2022, his wife gave birth to their first son.[6]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Album details | Peak chart positions | Sales |
|---|---|---|---|
| KOR [7][8] | |||
| First Tim |
Track listing
|
—[A] |
|
| Second Breath |
Track listing
|
—[B] |
|
| 감성 |
Track listing
|
—[C] |
|
| Love is... |
Track listing
|
—[D] |
|
| New Beginnings |
|
4 | N/a |
| "—" denotes album did not chart. | |||
Extended plays
[edit]| Title | Album details | Peak chart positions | Sales |
|---|---|---|---|
| KOR [8] | |||
| ...하루가 길다 |
Track listing
|
8 |
|
| 그려본다 |
Track listing
|
— | |
| "—" denotes album did not chart. | |||
Contributed singles and songs
[edit]As featured artist
[edit]| Title | Year | Album | Ref |
|---|---|---|---|
| 바래요 (Son Ho-young feat. Tim) |
2008 | Returns | |
| 겨울인데 (Pento feat. Tim) |
2014 | Non-album single |
Music videos
[edit]| Song | Year | Album | Starring | Ref |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| "We Can Make It" (Jang Keun-suk, Son Ho-young and Tim as "WEE Band") |
2008 | Ministry of Education WEE Project | [14] |
Filmography
[edit]- 2012: Saranghae, I Love You
- 2017: Just for You
Awards
[edit]| Year | Award-Giving Body | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Mnet Asian Music Awards | Best New Male Artist | "I Love You" (사랑합니다)[15] | Nominated |
Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ 팀. Daum Encyclopedia (in Korean). Retrieved November 20, 2018.
- ^ Woo, Michelle (February 1, 2008). "Seoul Idol". KoreAm. Archived from the original on March 22, 2019. Retrieved November 20, 2018.
- ^ Gim, Myeong-yeon (November 17, 2011). 최시원 응원 화제! 가수 팀 신곡에 '저희도 오늘 하루가 길 듯' 센스 발휘. Star Daily News (in Korean). Retrieved November 20, 2018.
- ^ Kim, Yoon-mi (January 19, 2011). "Singer Tim grateful for 'New Beginnings'". The Korea Herald. Retrieved November 20, 2018.
- ^ Ha Su-jeong (July 14, 2021). "[단독] '와카남' 팀, 미모의 CEO ♥김보라 신혼 공개 "조건없는 사랑 알려줘"(인터뷰)" [[Exclusive] 'Wakanam' team, beautiful CEO ♥ Kim Bo-ra newlyweds "Tell me about unconditional love" (interview)]. Osen (in Korean). Naver. Retrieved July 14, 2021.
- ^ Jang Woo-young (March 29, 2022). "팀, 오늘(29일) 득남…♥김보라 건강 회복이 먼저인 사랑꾼 [Oh!쎈 이슈]" [Tim, today (29th) gave birth... ♥Bora Kim A lover who puts health recovery first [Oh! Strong Issue]] (in Korean). OSEN. Retrieved March 29, 2022 – via Naver.
- ^ "K-pop Album Sales Volume" (in Korean). Recording Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on February 19, 2009. Retrieved November 20, 2018.
- ^ a b "Gaon Album Chart". Gaon Music Chart (in Korean). Retrieved November 20, 2018.
- ^ "2003.05월 - 가요음반 판매량" (in Korean). Music Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on April 9, 2009.
- ^ "2004.06월 - 가요음반 판매량" (in Korean). Music Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on March 15, 2005.
- ^ Cumulative sales for 감성:
- "2006.04월 - 가요음반 판매량" (in Korean). Music Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on June 14, 2008.
- "2006.05월 - 가요음반 판매량" (in Korean). Music Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on May 18, 2009.
- ^ Cumulative sales for Love is...:
- "2007.10월 - 가요음반 판매량" (in Korean). Music Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on May 18, 2009.
- "2007.11월 - 가요음반 판매량" (in Korean). Music Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on June 23, 2008.
- "2007.12월 - 가요음반 판매량" (in Korean). Music Industry Association of Korea. Archived from the original on March 14, 2009.
- ^ "2011년 11월 Album Chart" (in Korean). Korea Music Content Industry Association.
- ^ "Wee Band (JangKeunSuk & Tim & SonHoYoung)_ We Can Make It". YouTube. December 15, 2009. Archived from the original on December 13, 2021.
- ^ "2003 MMF part 1". Mwave. Retrieved 2014-08-20.
External links
[edit]- Official Twitter
- Artist Profile on Mnet (in Korean)
Tim (singer)
View on GrokipediaEarly life and education
Childhood in the United States
Tim, born Hwang Young-min on December 23, 1981, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, grew up in a devout Christian family as the fourth of five sons. His father served as a pastor for a local church, and his eldest brother followed in the family vocation as a Protestant pastor, fostering a deeply religious household environment.[1][4][7] From an early age, Tim was immersed in music through his father's church activities, where he naturally developed skills on various instruments, including the saxophone and piano. This exposure laid the foundation for his musical interests, supplemented by childhood training in vocals, drums, and keyboard, as well as brief involvement in modeling. He spent his formative school years in the Philadelphia area, attending local institutions and participating in church-related musical programs like choir.[1][8][9] Tim remained in the United States through high school graduation and briefly attended Temple University in Philadelphia, initially pursuing a degree in pharmacy before dropping out at age 20 to pursue a singing career in South Korea. During this period, he had not visited Korea, maintaining close ties to his American roots and family.[1][8][9]Move to South Korea and training
Tim, born Hwang Young-min in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1981 as the fourth of five brothers, was offered an audition opportunity in South Korea in 2000 while attending Temple University. At age 20, he decided to drop out of college and relocate to Seoul in 2001, leaving behind his family—including his father, a pastor in a Christian household—and his life in the United States after being approached by a Korean pop music producer who recognized his vocal potential from a demo tape.[4][1] Upon arriving in South Korea, where he had never visited before graduating high school, Tim dedicated the initial two years (2001–2003) to intensive language immersion and professional training to adapt to the Korean entertainment industry. This period involved rigorous vocal practice, cultural acclimation, and preparation for a debut as a ballad singer, as he focused on mastering Korean fluency and refining his musical style amid the challenges of living abroad without prior connections.[4][1] Under the guidance of renowned producer Yoon Sang during his training, Tim developed his signature emotive ballad delivery, culminating in the composition of his breakthrough single "I Love You" for his debut.[1]Musical career
Debut and breakthrough
Tim, born Hwang Young-min in the United States, relocated to South Korea at age 20 to pursue a music career, spending two years training in Korean language and vocal techniques under the guidance of songwriter Yoon Sang.[1] His debut album, First Young Min, was released on March 1, 2003, by Yejeon Entertainment, marking his entry into the Korean music scene as a ballad singer.[1] The album featured 11 tracks, including the lead single "I Love You" (사랑합니다), a soft ballad penned by Yoon Sang that showcased Tim's emotive vocals and gentle image.[1] Other notable songs included "Sometimes I Cry," "Yes," "Reunion," and "Bye Bye Love," blending heartfelt lyrics with piano-driven arrangements typical of early 2000s Korean ballads.[1] The release of First Young Min came during a period when the Korean music industry was experiencing a resurgence in ballad popularity, and Tim's debut filled a void for listeners seeking sincere, vocal-focused music amid the rising dominance of idol groups.[8] "I Love You" quickly gained traction, topping charts and earning praise from veteran ballad artist Shin Seung-hoon, who publicly endorsed Tim as a promising successor to icons like Lee Seung-hwan.[1] This endorsement amplified Tim's visibility, leading to widespread media coverage and fan acclaim for his calm, intellectual persona that contrasted with the era's more energetic pop acts.[8] The song's success established Tim as South Korea's "ballad prince," captivating audiences with its themes of unrequited love and emotional depth.[10] Tim's breakthrough was solidified by his win for the Newcomer Award at the 2003 Korea Music Awards, recognizing his immediate impact on the ballad genre.[10] Although nominated for Best New Male Artist at the Mnet Asian Music Awards that year, the debut's commercial performance—driven by strong radio play and live performances—propelled First Young Min to notable sales, cementing his position as a key figure in revitalizing male ballad artistry in the mid-2000s.[11]Mid-career albums and challenges
Tim followed his debut with his second studio album, Second Breath, released on June 1, 2004, by SidusHQ. The album continued his ballad-focused style, featuring popular tracks such as "Story" (이야기) and "Day Dream," which further solidified his reputation for emotive, introspective music.[1] Tim's mid-career phase, spanning the mid-2000s to early 2010s, saw the release of several albums that explored deeper emotional themes in balladry, though it was also marked by significant professional and personal hurdles. His third studio album, Emotions, arrived on April 28, 2006, via SidusHQ, building on his established R&B-infused ballad style with tracks emphasizing introspection and romance. This was followed later that year by the mini-album Break Up Pains on October 26, 2006, which delved into themes of heartbreak and separation, reflecting a maturation in his songwriting approach.[1] In 2007, Tim issued his fourth studio album, Love Is..., on September 6, 2007, also under SidusHQ, featuring collaborations and a mix of upbeat and melancholic tracks that attempted to broaden his appeal beyond pure ballads. However, the album received mixed commercial reception compared to his debut, prompting a period of reevaluation.[1] Following Love Is..., Tim entered a three-year hiatus from major releases, a challenging interlude that tested his resolve in the competitive K-pop landscape. He struggled to secure a suitable record label after parting with SidusHQ, leading to prolonged uncertainty about his musical direction and future. During this time, Tim reflected deeply on his identity as an artist, stating that he questioned whether he was truly "born to sing" but ultimately reaffirmed his passion. This break was compounded by a severe health setback in 2010, when he contracted Hepatitis A while volunteering in Africa; the illness required a month of hospitalization and self-managed recovery, as there is no specific cure for the condition.[4][4] Tim returned in 2010 with his fifth studio album, New Beginnings, released under Sony Music Korea on December 28, 2010, signaling a fresh start after his trials. The album included notable tracks like "Unnecessary Words," composed by Yiruma with lyrics by Lyn and popularized through the drama Secret Garden, as well as bilingual English-Korean songs such as "Liquid" and "He Said, She Said" aimed at international audiences. Self-producing elements in the record underscored his growth, with Tim expressing gratitude for overcoming his challenges and focusing on authentic expression. This release helped reestablish his presence in the ballad scene, though subsequent years brought ongoing efforts to balance personal recovery with artistic output.[4][4]Later works and recent activities
Following the release of his fifth studio album New Beginnings in 2010, Tim took a four-year break from new music before returning with the digital single "Expectation" on April 25, 2016. Produced by Tim himself in collaboration with composer Lee Sang-hoon, the track showcased his emotive ballad style and addressed themes of longing and anticipation in relationships, receiving positive reception from fans for its heartfelt lyrics and vocal delivery. To mark his 20th anniversary since debuting in 2003, Tim held a solo concert titled The AND on October 13 and 14, 2023, at Shinhan Card SOL Pay Square Live Hall in Seoul. The two-night event featured performances of his classic hits like "I Love You" alongside newer arrangements, reflecting on his career trajectory and collaborations, with special guest appearances by artists such as Maymay Kim.[12] In 2025, Tim maintained an active presence through television performances, appearing on KBS's long-running music program Open Concert (episode 1531, aired July 6), where he delivered a live rendition of his signature 2007 hit "I Love You," earning applause for his sustained vocal prowess.[13] He also participated in the KBS National Tour Concert in Changwon on September 27, 2025, joining fellow artists including DickPunks and Loveholic for a set that highlighted his enduring appeal in the ballad genre.[14] Earlier that year, on June 6 and 7, Tim performed at the Captain Planet Concert: Confession in Seoul, contributing to a lineup celebrating veteran musicians.[15] These appearances underscore his shift toward live performances and nostalgic revivals amid a quieter period for original releases.Personal life
Relationships and marriage
Tim has maintained a low profile regarding his personal relationships prior to his marriage, with no public details emerging about past romances. In 2013, he began dating Kim Bo-ra, a businesswoman two years his junior, though the exact circumstances of their meeting remain undisclosed. The couple dated for eight years, during which Tim faced significant personal challenges, including severe depression that tested their bond.[16] Originally planning a wedding in Hawaii for June 2020, Tim and Kim postponed the ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They ultimately married in a private ceremony in Seoul on February 5, 2021, attended by only immediate family members—four people in total—with additional relatives participating via video call. The intimate event, described by Tim as a "marriage worship ceremony in the presence of God," reflected their desire for a simple union amid global restrictions. Tim announced the marriage that day via Instagram, expressing gratitude to fans and highlighting Kim as his "forever partner, friend, and love" who had supported his growth.[17][18][16] The couple welcomed a son on March 29, 2022. As of July 2025, their son was three years old, and Tim has openly shared the joys and struggles of fatherhood, including initial sleep deprivation and chaotic early months. He has expressed hopes for a second child, specifically a daughter, while crediting his wife for her unwavering support through his career ups and downs and mental health battles.[19][16]Artistry and public image
Musical style and influences
Tim is renowned for his emotive delivery in the ballad genre, which has defined much of his career and earned him the nickname "Prince of Ballads" in South Korea.[1] His music often features soft, piano-driven arrangements that emphasize vocal range and heartfelt lyrics, as showcased in his debut single "I Love You" (2003), composed by prominent songwriter Yoon Sang.[1] Under Yoon Sang's mentorship, Tim developed a style that balances introspective calm with intellectual depth, positioning him as a successor to veteran ballad singers like Lee Seung-hwan and Shin Seung-hoon.[1] His early influences stem from a Christian upbringing in the United States, where he participated in church choirs and learned to play the saxophone and piano, fostering a foundation in gospel and instrumental music.[1] During high school, Tim explored jazz through his school band and developed an appreciation for classical music, which informed his versatile approach to melody and harmony.[20] Upon moving to South Korea, he adapted to the local music scene by studying Korean ballads, while drawing from American R&B groups like Boys II Men, hip-hop, and pop, aiming to create a signature "Tim Pop" that incorporates personal emotional narratives.[20] Over time, Tim's style has evolved to include collaborations that blend genres, such as his work with pianist Yiruma on "Never Forget" (2012), highlighting piano balladry with subtle classical undertones.[20] This fusion reflects his goal of connecting with audiences through music that addresses themes like love, resilience, and social issues, while maintaining a focus on vocal expressiveness over elaborate production. His ballad style has remained consistent into the 2020s, emphasizing emotional depth in personal and familial contexts.[21][22]Vocal career and health issues
Tim is recognized for his distinctive vocal style in the Korean ballad genre, characterized by a clear, sweet timbre that contrasts with the huskier tones common among male ballad singers like Lee Seung-hwan and Shin Seung-hoon.[1] His smooth delivery and emotional depth, often delivered in soft ballads, align with his calm and intellectual public image, emphasizing pure musical expression over performative visuals.[1] Mentored by renowned songwriter Yoon Sang, he honed a style blending R&B influences with Korean ballad traditions, earning the Newbie Award at the 2003 Korea Music Awards for his promising vocal talent.[1] Throughout his early career, Tim released four albums between 2003 and 2007, including contributions to OSTs like "Trust Me" for the drama A Thousand Kisses in 2011, where his versatile range—from mid-tones to subtle falsetto—supported narrative emotional arcs. However, subsequent releases struggled to match the debut's commercial impact, prompting introspection on his artistic direction.[4] In 2007, he initiated a three-year hiatus to reassess his path as a musician, during which he learned acoustic guitar to enhance his live performances and songwriting.[4] This period allowed him to draw inspiration from artists like John Mayer and Jack Johnson, refining a more acoustic-infused vocal approach focused on maturity and self-expression.[4] Tim's hiatus was interrupted by a significant health challenge in 2009, when he contracted Hepatitis A while volunteering in Africa; the viral liver infection, which has no specific cure, required extended self-recovery and impacted his physical well-being during an already reflective phase.[4] Despite this, he returned in late 2010 with the self-produced album New Beginnings, featuring the title track "Unnecessary Words" composed by Yiruma and Lyn, signaling a renewed vocal maturity with tracks that incorporated guitar elements for intimate delivery.[4] The album's release, under Sony Music Entertainment Korea, marked his comeback with plans for Asian expansion, underscoring resilience in his vocal artistry amid personal health trials.[4]Discography
Studio albums
Tim's debut studio album, titled Young Min (also known as First Tim), was released on April 22, 2003, under Yejeon Media. The album featured 10 tracks, including the lead single "I Love You," which showcased his R&B-influenced ballad style and helped establish him as an emerging talent in the South Korean music scene. It marked his entry into the industry as a Korean-American artist blending soulful vocals with emotional lyrics, achieving moderate success and peaking on Korean charts.[1] His second studio album, Second Breath, followed on June 1, 2004, with JM Entertainment and EMI Korea. Comprising 11 tracks, it included hits like "Thank You" and "Day Dream," emphasizing themes of love and introspection with richer production and orchestral elements. The album solidified Tim's reputation for heartfelt ballads and earned critical praise for his vocal maturity.[1] In 2006, Tim released his third studio album, Emotions (감성), on April 28, distributed by Yedang Entertainment. This 12-track effort featured "In Dreams (A Snowman’s Dream)" as the title track, incorporating piano-driven arrangements and collaborations that highlighted his versatility in pop-R&B. It received positive reviews for its emotional depth and charted well, contributing to his nickname as the "ballad prince."[1][8] The fourth studio album, Love Is..., came out on October 24, 2007, under LOBE Entertainment and Seoul Records. With 11 tracks, it spotlighted "As Much As I Love" and explored romantic themes through smooth melodies and guest features. Despite industry challenges, the album demonstrated Tim's commitment to authentic balladry and maintained a dedicated fanbase.[8] Tim's fifth and most recent studio album, New Beginnings, was released on November 25, 2010, by Sony Music Korea. This 11-track collection included the duet "Love Song" with Lyn and a cover of Yiruma's "River Flows in You," blending contemporary R&B with classical influences. It signified a career resurgence after a hiatus, praised for its polished sound and emotional resonance, and saw strong overseas demand in Asian markets.[4][24][25]Extended plays
Tim released two extended plays during his career, both mini-albums that highlighted his ballad style and vocal range. His debut extended play, Break Up Pains, was issued on March 27, 2007, by Sony Music Entertainment Korea. The four-track release focused on themes of heartbreak and emotional recovery, with the title track "Break Up Pains" leading the project. Other songs included "Easy Person," "Truth," and "Luv Again." This EP served as a bridge between his second and third studio albums, allowing Tim to experiment with more intimate arrangements.[24] Tim's second extended play, ...A Long Day (Korean: ...하루가 길다), arrived on November 28, 2011, as a remake collection of classic ballads. Produced under Sony Music Entertainment Korea, the five-track EP (plus instrumental) emphasized piano-driven melodies and Tim's emotive delivery. Key tracks were the title song "A Long Day" (3:50), a tear-jerking piano ballad; "Don't Say" (3:36); "Would You?" (4:17); "You're in My Heart" (3:55); and "Never Forget" (4:28). The project received praise for revitalizing older songs through Tim's signature warmth and sensitivity, marking a reflective phase in his mid-career.[26][27][28]| Title | Release date | Label | Format | Tracks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Break Up Pains | March 27, 2007 | Sony Music Entertainment Korea | CD | 4 |
| ...A Long Day | November 28, 2011 | Sony Music Entertainment Korea | CD | 6 (5 + instrumental) |
Singles and contributions
Tim debuted with the single "I Love You" (사랑합니다) in 2003, featured on his first album First Young Min, which was composed by renowned songwriter Yoon Sang and marked his entry into the South Korean ballad scene.[29] The track, an R&B-infused ballad about unrequited love, gained significant airplay and established Tim as a promising vocalist known for his emotive delivery.[30] Throughout his career, Tim released several solo singles that highlighted his ballad style, often exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and longing. Notable among these is "River Flows in You," a vocal adaptation of Yiruma's instrumental piano piece, released on his 2010 album New Beginnings and produced by the composer himself, blending pop elements with the original's serene melody.[31] Another key single, "Can't It Be Me?" (안되니), served as both a standalone release and a contribution to media projects, underscoring his versatility in emotional storytelling. Post-2012 digital singles include "You Can Lean On It" and "Draw" (2016), "Beautiful" (2017), and "Night End" (2019), continuing his focus on emotive ballads.[32] Tim has made significant contributions to Korean drama soundtracks, lending his voice to several popular series and enhancing their emotional narratives. In 2011, he sang "Can't It Be Me?" for the SBS drama 49 Days, a poignant ballad that captured the show's themes of regret and second chances, becoming one of the OST's standout tracks.[24] That same year, his single "Believe Me" (날 믿어요) featured in the MBC drama A Thousand Kisses, offering a message of trust amid relational turmoil.[33] In 2016, Tim contributed "Someday" to the JTBC series Fantastic, a gentle track reflecting hope and serendipity in love, which resonated with the drama's romantic plotline.[34] Additional OSTs include "Quiet Moments" for the 2017 movie I Want To Hear Only You, "Hide and Seek" for the 2018 drama Matrimonial Chaos, "A Day" for the 2020 drama Soul Repairer, and "Lean On The Shoulder" for the 2020 drama The Secret Man.[32] Beyond solo work and OSTs, Tim has collaborated with other artists to expand his musical footprint. A prominent example is the 2010 duet "Love Song" with fellow ballad singer Lyn, included on his New Beginnings album, where their harmonious vocals explored mutual affection in a classic pop-ballad format.[35] These partnerships, along with his OST involvements, have solidified Tim's reputation as a reliable contributor to collaborative projects in the K-pop industry.Filmography and television appearances
Television roles
Tim made his acting debut in the 2012 Korean-Indonesian co-production mini-series Saranghae, I Love You, where he portrayed the lead character Young Min, the son of a prominent Korean businessman who falls in love with an Indonesian woman amid cultural differences.[36][37] The drama, which aired on Indonesia's Indosiar network, explores a cross-cultural romance between characters from Korea and Indonesia, highlighting themes of love, family expectations, and reconciliation, and was noted for its scenic filming locations across both countries.[37] As a newcomer to acting, Tim's performance received positive reception in Indonesia, contributing to the series' popularity and marking his transition from music to screen roles.[37] In addition to his on-screen role, Tim contributed to the production by performing the original soundtrack "Saranghamnida," which complemented the drama's romantic narrative and further boosted his visibility in the Indonesian market.[37] The mini-series, comprising 30 episodes, holds an 8.4/10 rating on IMDb based on viewer feedback, praising its heartfelt storytelling and Tim's charismatic portrayal of Young Min.[36] This project remains his primary television acting credit, blending his musical background with dramatic elements to appeal to international audiences.[38]Variety show participations
Tim participated in several variety shows throughout his career, showcasing his vocal talents, sharing personal stories, and engaging in musical collaborations. These appearances often highlighted his ballad style and allowed him to reconnect with audiences during periods of reduced solo activity. In 2016, Tim appeared as the defending champion on MBC's King of Mask Singer (복면가왕), performing under the mask "The One Who Enjoys Life" and delivering renditions of songs like Lee Juck's "Lies" and Noel's "Confession." Despite earning high praise for his emotive vocals, he narrowly lost the final round by three votes, revealing his identity to the surprise of many viewers who had not seen him on television frequently.[39][40] Tim made a notable return to variety television in 2018 on JTBC's Two Yoo Project - Sugar Man 2 (투유 프로젝트 - 슈가맨 2), where he performed his debut hit "I Love You" (사랑합니다) as a Sugar Man for Yoo Jae-suk's team. The performance garnered 99 out of 100 votes from the audience, including a memorable handover to the crowd for a sing-along, evoking widespread nostalgia and reinforcing his status as a ballad icon. He reflected on the song's cultural impact, noting it never topped charts despite its popularity, but later achieved a number-one hit with "Thank You, Even Though It Hurt" (고마웠다고).[41][42][43] In 2021, shortly after his marriage, Tim and his wife Kim Bora joined TV Chosun's Wife Card Using Man (와이프 카드 쓰는 남자), sharing their eight-year relationship story and newlywed life for the first time on broadcast. The episode focused on their supportive partnership, with Tim praising Bora's role as a CEO of an influencer marketing company, highlighting how their dynamic predated modern trends in celebrity couples.[44][45] More recently, in May 2025, Tim performed "I Love You" on KBS2's The Seasons - Park Bo-gum's Cantabile (더 시즌즈 - 박보검의 칸타빌레), with host Park Bo-gum on accompaniment, in an episode featuring 2000s artists. The collaboration recreated the song's romantic essence, delighting fans with its heartfelt delivery.[46] In July 2025, Tim appeared on JTBC's Knowing Bros (아는 형님) alongside Paul Kim, Joji A, and Kang Daniel in a "Foreign Name Male Singers" special. He shared humorous anecdotes about his stage name origins, past variety experiences like being "traumatized" by host Kang Ho-dong's energetic style, and his career trajectory as a Korean-American artist, fostering lighthearted interactions with the cast.[47][48][49]| Show | Year | Role/Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| King of Mask Singer (MBC) | 2016 | Defending champion; performed ballads under mask |
| Two Yoo Project - Sugar Man 2 (JTBC) | 2018 | Sugar Man; "I Love You" performance with audience sing-along |
| Wife Card Using Man (TV Chosun) | 2021 | Guest with wife; shared marriage story |
| The Seasons - Park Bo-gum's Cantabile (KBS2) | 2025 | Performed "I Love You" with host accompaniment; nostalgic ballad revival |
| Knowing Bros (JTBC) | 2025 | Guest panel; name and career anecdotes |
Awards and nominations
{| class="wikitable" ! Year ! Award-giving body ! Category ! Work| ! Result |
|---|
| 2003 |
| Mnet Asian Music Awards |
| Best New Male Artist |
| "I Love You" |
| Nominated |
| - |
| 2004 |
| Korean Music Awards |
| Rookie Musician of the Year |
| ''First Youngmin'' |
| Won[50] |
| } |
References
- https://www.[soompi](/page/Soompi).com/article/358901wpp/artist-of-the-week-tim

