Digital cover: Tae-min Lee

Tenacious, driven and ambitious: these are only a few words to describe the talented K-pop artist Tae-min Lee

He is the youngest member of renowned K-pop group SHINee, who instantly gained recognition in Korea and across the world after their debut in 2008. Their unique concept of music, dance and fashion became a huge trend, influencing the ever-growing global popularity of South Korea’s pop culture and Hallyu.

At a sensible age of 25, Tae-min already has a firm vision of his own unique identity as an artist, which is captivating more and more fans worldwide. Over the years, he has grown to be a hugely influential performer; making strides in the K-pop scene with music and choreography unlike anything fans had seen before. From the beginning, his solo career was a huge success, particularly his hit single MOVE, which made the K-pop cult create a new self-induced “disease” called “Move Disease” named after the song’s addictive beats and infectious dance sequences.

“I had little to no expectations. Since the music, creative direction and performances were a little distant from what is considered ‘mass appealing’ – but I’m really grateful for the attention it received,” he told us when we recently met him.

Tae-min comes across as humble and genuine when he expresses gratitude for this notoriety and global fame. It’s no surprise, in fact, that his music resonated with music lovers after witnessing first-hand how artistically in tune he is with himself and his persona and how he carries himself with a sense of integrity.

Listen to Tae-min Lee’s April Playlist

https://open.spotify.com/embed/user/hashtag_legend/playlist/6Q623IcgfEOJNAfxIHC3R8

“I continuously immerse myself in things I like to do. Continuing to dance and sing as an artist, which was something I chose to do from a young age, makes the whole process to me somewhat purer,” Tae-min says.

He still harnesses the same passion for music and dancing that led him to start his career, continuing to perform and positively influence his audience and fans. Yes, he doesn’t want people to just listen to his music – but to actually interact and create a mutual experience through his art.

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch “Dark Side of the Moon” Apollo 8 watch in black ceramic on leather strap Thom Browne grey blazer, blue and white shirt Ambush gold daisy necklace

“Instead of just moving according to a certain choreography, I try to show who I am through every move I make and give an intention to it,” he adds.

(clockwise) Photos 1&4: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch “Dark Side of the Moon” Apollo 8 watch in black ceramic on leather strap; JW Anderson chain link bracelet; Ambush orange and yellow tie-dye shirt; Giuseppe Zanotti black and white ‘Archibald Twist’ loafers; (jeans Tae-min’s own)Photos 2&3: Omega Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer in Stainless Steel on leather strap; Gucci red monogram blazer; Ambush fluorescent orange money clip; Thom Browne orange and white striped cardigan; Giuseppe Zanotti black ‘Sailor’ loafers; (jeans Tae-min’s own)

Thom Browne grey blazer, blue and white shirt and yellow striped trousers Ambush gold daisy necklace Giuseppe Zanotti white ‘Urchin’ sneakers

Just as he said, Tae-min shows his individuality not only through his performances, but even when answering questions or posing in front of the camera. His responses were diplomatic and he seemed enraptured when speaking of his vision. He is pioneering a new trend in K-pop with his distinctive identity that’s only possible because it’s him. Tae-min has already established himself as a talented performer but there’s a lot that he still wants to prove and achieve in his career, both as an artist and as person. In the K-pop multifaceted universe, his approach is both refreshing and inspiring.

(full outfit) Omega Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer in Stainless Steel on leather strap Kenzo sand printed shirt Gucci green and gold knitted top and crystallised snake cuff Giuseppe Zanotti khaki ‘Chaos’ studded high-top sneakers  Salvatore Ferragamo khaki overall

Text / Danny Kang Photo / Younghak Lee Styling & Direction / Kieran Ho Hair/ Jungho Im Make-up / Juhee Kim Personal Stylist / Wook Kim