Korea 
Vanessa Nakate to Open Giving Black Conference 2026 With Climate Justice Keynote
2 weeks ago
Youngjae has established himself as a versatile artist, transitioning from a prominent K-pop idol to a solo musician, songwriter, and actor, actively engaging in various ventures.
Youngjae signed an exclusive contract with Sublime Artist Agency after leaving JYP Entertainment. Jackson also signed as a business partner.
Youngjae signed an exclusive contract with the newly established Andbut Company after parting ways with Sublime Artist Agency.
Youngjae was appointed as the Asia ambassador for the premium Thai mattress brand LUNIO (2025).
Youngjae became a brand ambassador/influencer for Givenchy and Levi's.
JYP agreed to let GOT7 keep their name, and while currently without management, the group's music is distributed by Kakao Entertainment.
Youngjae is listed as an artist under A-Side Company (in addition to AndBut Company).
Choi Young-jae, known professionally as Youngjae, was born on September 17, 1996, in Mokpo, South Korea. His aspiration to become a singer began in childhood, singing alongside his older brother. After his brother enlisted in the military, Youngjae enrolled in a practical music academy in Mokpo to formally train, supporting himself through part-time work. His early talent was recognized in 2011 when he received the Vocal Excellence Award at the Mokpo Youth Music Festival. In 2013, JYP Entertainment discovered him through a closed audition at his academy, leading to his recruitment as a trainee. After seven months of training, he debuted as the main vocalist of the seven-member boy group Got7 on January 16, 2014, with the single “Girls Girls Girls” from their first EP, “Got It?”.
Youngjae expanded his career beyond group activities by writing songs and lyrics under the pseudonym Ars, starting in 2016 with “Rewind” for Got7’s “Flight Log: Departure” EP. He pursued his interest in music therapy and engaged in collaborations, including “Victim of Love” with Sanjoy and Elliott Yamin in 2017, and “I’m All Ears” with Park Ji-min in 2018 for a youth suicide prevention campaign. His acting career began with appearances in various television dramas and web series, notably featuring in Netflix’s sitcom “So Not Worth It” in 2021, where his portrayal of Sam received positive feedback for its realistic emotional expression. He continued to participate in OSTs for dramas such as “Wok of Love” (2018) and “When My Love Blooms” (2020).
In January 2021, following the conclusion of his contract with JYP Entertainment, Youngjae signed an exclusive contract with Sublime Artist Agency, marking a new phase in his career. He made his solo debut with the extended play “Colors from Ars” and its title track “Vibin'” in October 2021. He also ventured into musical theater, taking on the lead role of Ha-ram in “Midnight Sun” (2021) and Moo-young in “The Days” (2023), earning praise for his vocal stability and acting. In 2022, he became a fixed DJ for MBC Radio’s “Best Friend” and later released his second EP, “Sugar.” In 2024, he signed with AndBut Company and released his first full album, “Do It,” continuing to release digital singles and embark on Asia tours.
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.
