In a groundbreaking moment for K-pop, JUST B member Bain—born Song Byeonghee—came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community during the group’s recent Los Angeles stop on their “JUST ODD” tour. The concert, held at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, marked a significant milestone in the industry’s evolving stance on LGBTQ+ representation.
A Bold Declaration
Before launching into a cover of Lady Gaga’s iconic anthem “Born This Way,” Bain addressed the audience with a heartfelt message. “All right, before I sing this next song, tonight I wanna share something with you guys,” he began, pausing to let the anticipation build. With the crowd eagerly awaiting his words, he continued, “I’m f**king proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community.” The revelation was met with thunderous applause and cheers from fans, signaling widespread support for the artist’s courageous disclosure.
“I’m fucking proud to be part of the LGBTQ community” – Bain#Bain #송병희 #배인#JUSTB #저스트비 pic.twitter.com/xREw3jdR5r
— tam ˖⋆˙ is fckin proud of Bain (@eternal_codeb) April 23, 2025
As the performance unfolded, Bain energetically danced across the stage, waving a pride flag, embodying the spirit of the song and the significance of the moment. His rendition of “Born This Way” resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom considered it a personal anthem of empowerment and acceptance.
Industry Impact
K-pop, traditionally known for its conservative values, has seen a gradual shift towards inclusivity in recent years. While some artists have expressed support for the LGBTQ+ community, Bain’s public coming out is unprecedented in the genre. His actions have sparked conversations about representation and acceptance within the K-pop industry, challenging long-standing norms and encouraging a more open dialogue about identity and expression.
Following the performance, Bain took a moment to express his gratitude to the fans. “I’m so happy that I can be myself,” he shared, his voice filled with emotion. “I just wanna say until next time: Stay bold, stay fierce, and lastly, always, always be your true selves.” His words left a lasting impression on the audience, reinforcing the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance.
Support from Bandmates and Fans
The support for Bain extended beyond the audience. His fellow JUST B members—Geonu, Lim Ji-min, Siwoo, DY, and Sangwoo—gathered around him on stage, offering their unwavering support and solidarity. Their presence underscored the unity and camaraderie within the group, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and understanding.
Fans took to social media to express their pride and admiration for Bain’s bravery. One fan tweeted, “Even if you don’t stan JUST B, no one can deny the impact Bain has made tonight in the K-pop community. I hope he receives endless support for coming out & I hope it helps others feel comfortable enough to be their true selves publicly.” Another shared, “Oh my Bain, it takes so, so much courage to do what you did and I hope that you feel all the love and support from everyone around you.” These reactions reflect the profound effect Bain’s coming out has had on fans worldwide.
A Pioneering Moment in K-pop
Bain’s decision to publicly identify as LGBTQ+ represents a significant step forward for K-pop, a genre that has often been criticized for its lack of diversity and representation. His actions have opened the door for more artists to express their true selves without fear of retribution or exclusion. As the industry continues to evolve, moments like Bain’s coming out serve as beacons of hope and progress, inspiring future generations of artists and fans alike.
In a world where music often serves as a platform for social change, Bain’s performance in Los Angeles stands as a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of embracing one’s identity. As fans continue to celebrate this historic moment, the hope is that it will pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting K-pop industry, where all voices and identities are valued and celebrated.
JUST B’s “JUST ODD” tour continues to gain momentum, with upcoming performances in various cities. Fans eagerly anticipate the group’s next steps, hopeful that the momentum of this pivotal moment will lead to lasting change within the K-pop industry.
For more updates on JUST B and their tour, fans can follow the group’s official social media channels and stay tuned for announcements regarding future performances and events.
As the K-pop landscape continues to shift, Bain’s courageous act serves as a reminder that music has the power to unite, inspire, and transform. His story is one of resilience, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of authenticity, setting a new precedent for artists and fans in the K-pop community and beyond.
