A rainbow revolution is cooking up in K-pop, with idols such as KATSEYE’s Lara and JUST B’s Bain! These artists have bravely stepped into the spotlight not just as performers but as proud members of the LGBTQ+ community, helping transform an industry that has kept diversity behind the curtain.
In honor of Bain’s coming out during his LA concert this year, let’s talk about some K-pop idols that are LGBTQ+:
#4. Holland (Go Tae Seob)
Today marks my 7th debut anniversary!
As a gay person, I never imagined that I could work and be loved like this in Korea. These past 7 years have been the happiest of my life, filled with incredible experiences. I want to give back the love and lessons I’ve received to my fans… pic.twitter.com/7FHuZ6Z7Ig
— HOLLAND (@HOLLAND_vvv) January 22, 2025
Debuting back in 2018, Holland didn’t wait around for permission. He came out as gay and dropped music that unapologetically featured same-sex love stories. Without a major label, he built his own lane and paved the way for queer idols to come.
#3. Lara Raj (KATSEYE)
KATSEYE’s Lara comes out as queer via Weverse:
“I knew i was half fruitcake when i was like 8 so i really was wanting everybody. Honestly probably before 8. Isn’t “half fruitcake” such a good way to explain it without saying it?” pic.twitter.com/0syKRpszuc
— Pop Base (@PopBase) March 24, 2025
With sass and self-love, Lara came out as bisexual on Weverse in March 2025. Her post—“I’ve known I’m half a fruitcake since I was 8”—giving a blend of humor and honesty, and fans loved her for it!
#2. Ji Ae (Formerly of Wa$$up)
Jiae, soloist, former WA$$UP member and out bissexual, posting pictures with her girlfriend pic.twitter.com/nRXnr2BfvA
— kpop moments that could kill a sapphic (@kpopsapphic) February 16, 2023
Ji Ae dropped the bisexual bombshell in 2024 via Instagram, casually blessing fans with some Bali pics and her girlfriend in tow. No drama, just vibes. And the response? Only love for a bi icon in the making!
#1. Bain (JUST B)
JUST B member Bain came out during the group’s concert in Los Angeles tonight:
“I’m fucking proud to be a part of the LGBT community.”
— Pop Base (@PopBase) April 23, 2025
And now, the moment that brought this convo back into the spotlight: Bain. During JUST B’s LA concert on April 23, he performed Born This Way by Lady Gaga, waved a pride flag, and declared, “I’m f*cking proud to be part of the LGBTQ community.” He later took to Instagram and said he was a part of the community as a gay person.
