K-pop has successfully transcended cultural boundaries and gained a massive international following. While South Korea remains the hub of K-pop, it is worth mentioning that several talented idols have risen to prominence from various global regions. Despite the common assumption that most overseas idols originate from the United States, Canada has made a significant contribution to the international K-pop scene.
Let’s have a look at some of the K-pop idols who are from Canada.
1. Jeon Somi
Jeon Somi, a talented and charismatic K-pop soloist, hails from Canada, adding an international flair to the vibrant Korean music industry. She was born on March 9, 2001, in Ontario, Canada. Her passion for music led her to participate in the survival show "Produce 101." Since then, she has become a prominent figure in the K-pop scene.
2. NCT’s Mark
Mark Lee, born on August 2, 1999, in Toronto, Canada, is a member of the popular boy group NCT. As part of the sub-units of NCT and SuperM, Mark has showcased his versatility as a rapper, singer, and dancer. With his Canadian background, Mark has become a relatable figure to fans worldwide, contributing to NCT's success.
3. THE BOYZ’ Jacob and Kevin
Jacob and Kevin, two talented members of THE BOYZ, hail from Canada. Jacob was born in 1997 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Kevin was born in South Korea but moved to Vancouver, Canada, when he was 4. Their Canadian roots and fluency in English have helped them connect with international fans and have contributed to their global success.
4. P1Harmony's Keeho
The leader of P1Harmony, Keeho, was born on September 27, 2001, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Keeho brings a unique international flair to P1Harmony's music and performances. With his talent and charisma, Keeho has established himself as a rising K-pop idol, representing Canada.
5. ZB1’s Seok Matthew
Seok Matthew is a member of the upcoming boy group ZEROBASEONE. He was born on May 28, 2002, in Vancouver, Canada. He competed on Mnet's reality survival show "Boys Planet" and finished third overall in the final episode, becoming a member of ZEROBASEONE.
6. BIGFLO’s Lex
Lex, a member of BIGFLO, is from Toronto, Canada. He debuted with BIGFLOW in 2017, and in 2021 he made his solo debut. As a Korean-Canadian artist making waves in the K-pop industry, Lex embodies the spirit of cross-cultural exchange and demonstrates the global appeal of K-pop.
7. Henry Lau
Henry Lau, a talented artist hailing from Canada, is widely recognized for his remarkable contributions as a former member of Super Junior-M. He was born on October 11, 1989, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Renowned for his multifaceted abilities, he excels as a singer, rapper, songwriter, composer, producer, beatboxer, and actor.
8. Red Velvet's Wendy
Wendy, a member of Red Velvet, moved to Brockville, Ontario, with her older sister during elementary school. She briefly lived in the United States before returning to Canada to attend Richmond Hill High School in Richmond Hill, Canada. She is a talented singer and also plays piano, flute, saxophone, and guitar.
The rise of K-pop has opened doors for talented individuals from various countries to make their mark in the industry. Canadian-born K-pop idols’ success reinforces the fact that talent knows no boundaries.
Wendy has always been my favorite! All of them are talented musicians, singers, dancers, and actors! Canada somehow rules!🤞 There are rightfully many more idols from Canada not mentioned here.