Kim Ki Bum, known professionally as Key, is a South Korean singer, dancer, musical actor, commercial model, former member of TOHEART (투하트) and current member of SHINEE (샤이니, stylized as SHINee). He graduated from Yeongshin High School and later obtained a bachelor's degree in Film and Musical Studies from Myongji University and a master's degree in Education and Cultural Content Development from Woosuk University.

He made his debut in May 2008 as the group's lead rapper, lead dancer and sub-vocalist with their first EP, "Replay". They immediately gained attention for starting a fashion trend amongst students, which the media dubbed the "Shinee Trend". In 2008, they won the Newcomer Album of the Year Award at the 23rd Golden Disc Awards for "The Shinee World". He became the primary costume designer for the group and has also written the rap parts for several SHINEE songs.

In June 2011, SM Entertainment (SM엔터테인먼트) decided to expand to Japan, and alongside EMI Records, they debuted with a Japanese version of "Replay" and continued to earn prizes and fans both domestically and internationally. The group has also been included in the Forbes South Korea Power Celebrity 40 twice, in 2014 and in 2016.

In March 2014, he joined a special project alongside INFINITE's Nam Woo Hyun called TOHEART. The duo debuted with their mini-album, "Delicious", and promoted for the rest of the year before returning to their respective groups.

In November 2018, he made his debut as a solo artist with his first digital single, "Forever Yours". He enlisted for his mandatory military service on March 4, 2019, and was discharged on October 7, 2020.

He has also appeared in some dramas, was a host for music shows and is a regular member of several variety shows.

On December 17, 2025, he suspended all of his activities, following his admission that he received illegal medical treatment from an unlicensed medical practitioner named Miss Lee.

(Source: kisskh) Edit Biography