Happy Virus of ASTRO

​

Real Name: Kim Myung-jun (김명준)
Stage Name: MJ (엠제이)
Date of Birth: March 5, 1994
Place of Birth: Suwon, Gyeonggi, South Korea
Height: 175 cm
Weight: 58 kg
Blood Type: O
Agency: Fantagio
Position in ASTRO: Main Vocalist
Additional Group: Super Five (trot group)

​

Childhood and Early Years

​

From a young age, MJ showed a vibrant and extroverted personality. He grew up in Suwon, a city near Seoul, in a warm and supportive family environment. His love for music started early, influenced by television programs and artists of the time. Although he initially dreamed of becoming an architect due to his passion for drawing and design, he soon discovered that his true calling was on the stage.

During his teenage years, MJ participated in several auditions for entertainment agencies. In 2012, he auditioned for JYP Entertainment X HUM, where he impressed the judges with his vocal talent and won a one-year scholarship at Seoul Arts College. However, he was not accepted into JYP Entertainment, which led him to seek new opportunities.

​

Path to Debut (2013-2015)

​

MJ did not give up and continued to refine his skills. In 2013, he successfully joined Fantagio, an agency known for its talent development program called iTeen, where he trained alongside other future ASTRO members. During this period, he received intensive training in singing, dancing, and acting.

In 2015, MJ and his groupmates starred in the web drama To Be Continued, a production that served as an introduction to the group before their official debut. In this drama, the members of ASTRO portrayed fictional versions of themselves, which helped them gain recognition before their official debut.

Debut with ASTRO and Early Projects (2016-2019)

On February 23, 2016, MJ officially debuted with ASTRO with the mini-album Spring Up, which included the successful single "Hide & Seek".

From the beginning, MJ stood out for his powerful voice and contagious energy on stage. Over the next few years, ASTRO released several mini-albums and full albums, solidifying themselves as one of the most promising groups in the K-pop industry.

MJ, in particular, earned the affection of fans for his cheerful personality and his ability to make others laugh.

In 2018, during the ASTROAD To Seoul "Starlight" concert, MJ performed his first solo trot song, "Cheok Cheok", which was later included in the concert's DVD. This was a pivotal moment in his career, as it showcased his versatility as an artist.

In 2019, he released his first OST "You're My Everything" for the drama My Only One, demonstrating his ability to convey emotions through music.

Also in 2019, he appeared on several variety and travel shows, such as Have To Go to Know and Go Together, Travel Alone, where he showcased his fun and spontaneous side.

In August 2019, he appeared on King of Masked Singer under the alias "Driver Kim", surprising the audience with his impressive vocal range.

Expansion of His Career: Musicals and Super Five (2020-Present)

In 2020, MJ made his debut in the world of musicals with Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, playing the role of Jamie, a young man who dreams of becoming a drag queen. His performance was praised for its emotional depth and stage presence.

In August 2020, he debuted in the trot group Super Five, formed through the MBC Favorite Entertainment program. This project allowed him to explore a different musical genre and connect with a broader audience.

In November 2021, he released his first solo single, "Happy Virus", a song that reflects his optimistic personality and love for music.

MJ enlisted in the mandatory military service on May 9, 2022, and returned on November 8, 2023, resuming his activities with ASTRO and exploring new opportunities in the entertainment industry.

During his time in the military, MJ served in the Republic of Korea Army Military Band, where he participated in various musical activities. This allowed him to continue developing his vocal talent while fulfilling his duty.

Upon completing his service, he held a live stream on YouTube to greet his fans and express his gratitude for their support.
Watch the live stream here

In 2024 and 2025, MJ released several covers that were very well received by his fans:

• "Forest" (숲) by Choi Yuree in 2024, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotions.

• "Why So Pretty?" (왜 이렇게 예뻐) in September 2024, as part of a K-drama soundtrack.

• "To Heaven" (천국으로 보낸 편지).

He has also participated in recent musicals:

• "Zorro: The Actor Musician" (2024) – Playing the role of Zorro.

• "Jack the Ripper" (2024) – Playing the role of Daniel.

• "Winter Traveler" (2024).

In terms of TV programs, MJ has been present on:

• K-Music ON! Project (2024) – A program showcasing collaborations between artists and composers.

• "SHOOT! ~Legends' Challenge 4" (2024) – A football program aired by JTBC, where MJ demonstrated his skills in the sport.

Fun Facts about MJ

• His nickname is "Happy Virus", because he is always smiling and spreading positive energy.

• His favorite food is seafood, and he dreams of opening a sushi restaurant in the future.

• His favorite Marvel character is Iron Man.

• He has a talent for impersonations, including celebrity voices and animal sounds.

• If he weren’t a singer, he would have liked to be an architectural designer.

• He is the most talkative member of ASTRO and always encourages his fellow members.

• He shares a room with Rocky and Sanha.

• As a child, he dreamed of being an architect but gave up the idea due to the amount of studying required.

• In an interview on Astro Idol Party, he jokingly said that if he were a girl, he would date himself.

He is known for his sense of humor and his ability to make others laugh in any situation.

Military Service and Return to Music

MJ enlisted for mandatory military service in May 2022 and completed his service in November 2023. After returning, he quickly reconnected with his fans by releasing several covers on digital platforms.

In 2024 and 2025, MJ continued exploring his solo career, releasing new versions of popular songs and participating in special musical events.

His Personality and Interests

• Hobbies: Drawing and playing video games.

MJ continues to be a well-rounded artist, with an incredible voice, a positive spirit, and an unmatched passion for music. His energy has won the hearts of AROHA, and he will undoubtedly keep surprising us with new projects in the future.