Kim Min-gyu, known professionally as Mingyu, is a South Korean rapper and singer who has captivated global audiences as a member of the powerhouse boy band Seventeen. Born on April 6, 1997, in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, he was drawn to music and performance from a young age. His journey to stardom began when he joined Pledis Entertainment as a trainee, where he honed his skills in rap, dance, and stage presence alongside fellow future members of Seventeen. Mingyu made his official debut in 2015 as a member of the 13-piece group, quickly distinguishing himself through his deep, commanding voice and charismatic stage persona as part of the hip hop team.
Mingyu’s rise to prominence came as Seventeen carved out a unique identity in the K-pop landscape, known for their self-produced music and intricate choreography. He contributed significantly to the group’s songwriting and production, co-writing and co-composing tracks that showcased his lyrical depth and versatility. The group’s breakthrough came with hits like "Adore U" and "Very Nice," propelling them to international fame. Mingyu’s visual appeal and sharp rap delivery made him a standout member, earning him a dedicated fanbase and recognition as a key figure in the group’s dynamic. He also ventured into variety shows, appearing on programs like Knowing Bros and Running Man, where his playful and earnest personality endeared him to viewers beyond the music scene.
Beyond his work with Seventeen, Mingyu expanded his artistic horizons in 2025 when he debuted a sub-unit with fellow member S.Coups under the name CxM. This collaboration allowed the two rappers to explore a darker, more intense musical style, further solidifying Mingyu’s reputation as a versatile artist. Throughout his career, he has been part of Seventeen’s numerous chart-topping albums, including "Love & Letter," "Teen, Age," and "FML," which shattered records and earned the group multiple Daesang awards, such as Album of the Year at the Golden Disc Awards. Mingyu’s influence extends to fashion, where he has modeled for luxury brands and graced magazine covers, cementing his status as a style icon.
As of the present, Mingyu continues to thrive as a central member of Seventeen, actively participating in world tours, album releases, and variety content. His dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with fans through both music and personality have made him a beloved figure in K-pop. With the CxM sub-unit offering a fresh creative outlet, Mingyu remains a dynamic force in the industry, poised for continued success as both a group performer and a solo artist.