How Old Is Chen?

Chen, whose birth name is Kim Jong-dae, was born on September 21, 1992, making him currently 31 years old. He was born in Daejeon, South Korea. Chen is a talented South Korean singer and songwriter, known for being a member of the popular boy band Exo. He has also pursued a successful solo career and has contributed to various television drama soundtracks.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Chen’s early life was marked by his passion for music. Born as Kim Jong-dae on September 21, 1992, in Daejeon, South Korea, he discovered his love for singing at a young age. At 19, Chen embarked on a journey that would shape his future career – he became a trainee at SM Entertainment in 2011, where he honed his skills and prepared for his debut.

On December 29, 2011, Chen’s career officially took flight when he was introduced as the fourth member of Exo, an internationally renowned boy band. His powerful vocals quickly captivated audiences, solidifying his role as the group’s main vocalist. Chen made his first public appearance as an Exo member at the esteemed 2011 SBS Gayo Daejeon, instantly leaving fans in awe of his talent.

Not content with just being a part of Exo, Chen also joined the ballad group SM the Ballad, showcasing his versatility as an artist. During this time, he also ventured into the world of solo music, releasing memorable tracks such as “The Best Luck” for the drama “It’s Okay, That’s Love.” Chen’s career beginnings were marked by his dedication and natural talent, which quickly propelled him to stardom.

Solo Career and Collaborations

In 2019, Chen embarked on his highly anticipated solo career, marking a significant milestone in his musical journey. He released his debut solo EP, “April, and a Flower,” captivating listeners with his powerful vocals and introspective lyrics. The title track of the EP, “Beautiful Goodbye,” resonated with fans, showcasing Chen’s talent as both a singer and a storyteller.

“April, and a Flower” was a massive success, reaching number two on South Korea’s Gaon Album Chart and solidifying Chen’s position as a sought-after solo artist. This EP not only showcased Chen’s artistic growth but also paved the way for more solo endeavors.

Following the success of his debut, Chen continued to captivate audiences with his second EP, “Dear My Dear,” which was released later in 2019. This album featured the heartfelt single “Shall We?” which further highlighted Chen’s vocal prowess and emotional depth.

Although Chen’s solo albums have been a testament to his individual artistry, he has also embraced collaborations with other talented musicians. He has collaborated with esteemed artists such as Dynamic Duo, Ailee, and Onestar, creating unique and memorable musical partnerships. Chen’s collaborations have not only enriched his discography but have also showcased his versatility as an artist.

In addition to his solo ventures and collaborations, Chen has also contributed his exceptional vocals to various drama soundtracks, adding another layer of depth to his musical repertoire. Through his solo career and collaborations, Chen has solidified himself as a multifaceted artist, continuously pushing boundaries and creating heartfelt music that resonates with listeners.

Personal Life and Future Plans

Chen, whose birth name is Kim Jong-dae, has had eventful years outside of his music career. In January 2020, he announced his upcoming marriage to his non-celebrity girlfriend, bringing joy to fans worldwide. The couple’s happiness multiplied when they welcomed their first child, a daughter, in April 2020. Their family further grew with the arrival of their second child in January 2022.

In addition to his personal milestones, Chen fulfilled his mandatory military service obligations, enlisting in October 2020 and being discharged in April 2022. He dedicated his time to serving his country, demonstrating his commitment and patriotism as a Korean citizen.

During this period, Chen also faced a contract dispute with his agency, SM Entertainment. However, the matter has now been resolved, and he continues to pursue his solo activities while maintaining a strong partnership with the agency. With his musical journey and family life aligned, Chen’s future plans are anticipated with excitement and support from his fans.