Following Just B's Ba-in, XG's Kokona has declared coming out.
▲ Just B's Ba-in "I'm proud to be gay"…first coming out by a male idol with Korean nationality
The one who first mustered the courage was Just B member Ba-in. During a recent world tour concert he declared his coming out, saying "I am proud to belong to the LGBT community." This is the first case of a male idol group member with Korean nationality officially coming out.
Afterward, Ba-in appeared on YouTube channel "Hong Seok‑cheon's jewel box" and spoke in detail about his feelings over the years. Ba-in said he realized his sexual identity during his trainee days and trembled with anxiety and fear about the future, and that on the day of rehearsal he decided to confess on stage after receiving support from members and the company.
About the changes after coming out he said, "When I wrote song lyrics I had to make gender ambiguous or hide it, but now I can write freely and it feels like the possibilities have grown," conveying a sense of liberation as an artist. However, he said, "The reaction was fierce when I returned to Korea," expressing realistic fears and apologizing for any misunderstandings members might face because of him. Ba-in drew a clear line, saying "The members are not gay; only I am gay," and thanked fans who accept him as he is.
▲ XG's Kokona reveals chest reduction surgery scars…"the process of accepting myself"
Following Ba-in, XG member Kokona confessed their sexual identity on their 20th birthday. Through XG's official SNS Kokona announced that they are 'AFAB transmasculine non-binary.' This means they were designated female at birth but form their identity closer to masculinity or within that spectrum.
Along with revealing their identity, Kokona surprised people by posting photos showing scars from chest reduction surgery. They said, "The hardest thing in life was accepting and acknowledging myself," and conveyed the message, "I hope this writing becomes a small light for someone."
The agency also fully supported the artist's courage. XG's executive producer Jacobs said, "I have deep respect for Kokona for having the courage to share their heart with the world," and added, "We will support them so they are respected not only as an artist but as a human being."
The consecutive coming-outs of the two artists are regarded as an unusual occurrence in the idol industry, where strict image management is required. Ba-in and Kokona went beyond simply revealing their personal sexual orientations and delivered a weighty message to the public about "how to love yourself" and "courage." Attention is focused on the paths Ba-in, who vowed "I will live confidently" despite his fears, and Kokona, who said "I opened a new door" while revealing their wounds, will take in the future.
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