Artist Highlight: TAEMIN

One of the youngest idols to ever debut, SHINee’s maknae TAEMIN had a lot to prove.

DEBUT

Debuting at 14-years-old TAEMIN, born Lee Taemin, had a hard time standing out compared to his older bandmates. In the beginning of SHINee's career, TAEMIN’s lines were often cut as the other members' vocals seemed to outshine his. However, his voice improved as his career went on due to age and vocal training. He has become a popular solo artist in recent years, attesting to his vocal improvements. He is now regarded as an all-rounder and considered one of the best dancers in the industry.

SOLO DEBUT

TAEMIN made his solo debut in 2014 with the mini-album ACE. He has released five mini albums and three studio albums since then, many of which are in Japanese. Despite being the youngest, TAEMIN was the first SHINee member to release a solo album, and he makes up most of the group's solo discography. He has become one of the most popular Korean solo artists and is loved by SHINee fans and nonfans alike. His abilities, which have greatly improved since his 2008 SHINee debut, pair well with his unique artistic expression. 

TAEMIN’s most notable song is the title track “MOVE” off of his 2017 studio album of the same name. The music video has garnered 72 million views since its release six years ago. The video is known for its androgynous style, emotional vocals, and skillfully crafted choreography that many find difficult to master. 

MILITARY

His most recent mini album, Advice, was released on May 18, 2021. But, less than two weeks later, TAEMIN enlisted in the Korean military as a military band member.

Nearly a year into his service, SM Entertainment released a statement informing fans that TAEMIN transferred to public service due to his pre-existing mental health conditions worsening. Following this, his service time was extended, and it pushed back the possible release of any new SHINee albums. On December 25, 2022, TAEMIN announced on Instagram that he would complete his military service in 100 days. SM Entertainment uploaded a video titled “TAEMIN IS BACK” to commemorate his discharge on April 3, 2023.

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES

TAEMIN is back on track to release his fourth Korean mini-album, Guilty, on October 30. With this, he is expected to have solo performances in Seoul. This will be TAEMIN’s first Korean solo concert since 2017, and he has expressed concern about fans' attendance. Contrary to his worries, SHINee is known to sell out shows within minutes both as a group and as solo artists, and all three days of TAEMIN’s 2017 concert completely sold out.

Edited by Lacey Diluvio