The Korean-Australian idol that never stops giving his all.

Stray Kids

Bang Chan, born Bahng Christopher Chahn, created the world renowned K-pop group Stray Kids in 2017. The members, selected by Bang Chan himself, competed on the JYP Entertainment survival show Stray Kids, named after the group. Bang Chan joined JYP Entertainment at the age of 13-years-old; however, he did not debut until he was 20. His seven-year trainee period prepared him for the roles of: leader, producer, eldest member, and composer that he took on upon the formation of Stray Kids. Bang Chan tends to have less lines in their newer title tracks, which gives the other members more time to shine. Stray Kids’ discography is a testament to Bang Chan's versatility.

3RACHA

Prior to his Stray Kids debut, Bang Chan became a member of hip-hop trio 3RACHA under JYP Entertainment alongside fellow trainees and Stray Kids members Han and Changbin. The trio is now credited as the powerhouse of Stray Kids, writing and producing for the group. They operate alongside a few other producers, but are independent for the most part making them some of the youngest credited artists in Korea. Bang Chan himself is credited as the youngest artist in the KOMCA (Korean Music Copyright Association) top 10 list. In September 2023, 3RACHA performed at the Global Citizen Festival on behalf of Stray Kids. Despite only three out of eight Stray Kids members being present, Bang Chan, Han, and Changbin lit up the stage.

Solo Activities

Bang Chans’ first and only SKZ-RECORD "인정하기 싫어", originally released in 2020, was re-released in December 2022 under the English title “i hate to admit” on the Stray Kids album SKZ-REPLAY. All of the Stray Kids members have yet to make any solo debuts. 

Leader

Bang Chan is known among fans as a selfless and caring leader. He has implemented the rule that the youngest member eats first despite the traditional Korean practice of elders starting off the meal. Upon receiving awards on behalf of Stray Kids, Bang Chan often hands the award to maknae I.N. as a sign of respect and adoration for the youngest member. He attently follows behind the members whenever they walk together, making sure no one falls behind. This behavior extends beyond the members as Bang Chan frequently expresses his love and gratitude to their fans, STAY, as well. He expresses his love for STAY despite the distance and the language barriers, and he vows to always protect and support them.

Edited by Lacey Diluvio