Beyond the Spotlight: 4 K-Pop Idols You Might Not Know Are Dads

From Changmin to Bobby, K-Pop's New Generation of Fathers

While the K-pop industry has long upheld a carefully curated image for its idols, a growing number of stars are navigating a dual life: performer and parent. For some, this personal milestone remains relatively under the radar. Here are four male idols who are already fathers, a fact that might surprise even dedicated fans.

TVXQ’s Changmin: A Private Family Man

Given how active TVXQ remains, it's easy to overlook that member Changmin is a father. The veteran idol married his non-celebrity girlfriend in 2020 and, according to his agency, the couple welcomed a son in 2022. Changmin has deliberately kept his family out of the public eye, choosing a path of privacy. However, reports often speak to his dedication and care as a father, painting a picture of a life balanced between global stardom and quiet fatherhood.

iKON’s Bobby: Openly Embracing Fatherhood

iKON's Bobby took a more direct approach. In a surprise announcement in August 2021, he revealed he was getting married and that his fiancée was expecting a child the following month. The couple welcomed a son, and news outlets later confirmed they had officially married. Bobby has been candid about this new chapter, once stating that things didn't have to change after he became a father and has since spoken with fans about the joys of his new role, challenging old industry norms.

2PM’s Chansung: A Surprise Announcement and New Chapter

The 2PM member surprised many when he announced his marriage and his then-girlfriend's pregnancy in December 2021. The following July, his company officially confirmed that she had safely delivered a baby girl. While his activities in Korea have been less frequent, Chansung has remained active as a solo artist in Japan. He released multiple singles and a full studio album this past October 2025, continuing his career while embracing his new family life.

UNIQ’s Sungjoo: An Unplanned Reveal

UNIQ hasn't been active as a full group for years, but Sungjoo has pursued solo work. His fatherhood was revealed in a uniquely modern way: during a live stream. Fellow UNIQ member Wenhan casually asked if his son was sleeping, prompting a surprised Sungjoo to confirm that he was indeed married and had a son. He later leaned into the reveal, sharing photos with his son on his personal Weibo account.

PRISM Insight: This growing trend of 'idol fathers' signals a significant shift in the K-pop industry's rigid 'romance-free' image. The varied announcement styles—from official statements to candid live stream reveals—reflect a new generation of artists navigating personal milestones more publicly, testing the boundaries of a traditionally conservative fan culture.