Jinu (WINNER) Profile 2026: Bio, Age, Height & Interesting Facts
In the landscape of K-pop, few voices are as instantly recognisable as that of Kim Jin-woo, better known to fans as Jinu (formerly Jinwoo). As the lead vocalist and visual of the iconic boy group WINNER under YG Entertainment, Jinu has carved a distinct niche for himself with his ethereal vocals, delicate visuals, and gentle personality.
Born on September 26, 1991, on the remote Imja Island in South Korea, Jinu’s journey to K-pop stardom is nothing short of remarkable. From being scouted by BIGBANG’s Seungri to surviving the intense competition of WIN: Who Is Next, his path has been defined by perseverance, talent, and an unwavering dedication to his craft. He debuted with WINNER on August 12, 2014, and has since become one of the most beloved idols in the industry, known not just for his musical abilities but also for his philanthropic efforts and down-to-earth nature.
This comprehensive Jinu WINNER profile covers everything you need to know about the artist-from his early life and career milestones to his personal interests, family background, and fascinating facts that even long-time fans might not know. Whether you’re a new Inner Circle (WINNER’s fandom) or a seasoned K-pop enthusiast, this guide offers the most complete and up-to-date look at Kim Jin-woo in 2026.
Quick Facts Table
Table of Contents
Who Is Jinu (WINNER)?
Jinu, born Kim Jin-woo, is a South Korean singer, actor, and a core member of the YG Entertainment boy group WINNER. He is the group’s lead vocalist and visual, renowned for his clear, emotive singing voice and his striking, doll-like features. Initially promoting under the name Jinwoo, he later simplified his stage name to Jinu.
Jinu’s musical identity is defined by his unique vocal tone-a soft, refreshing quality that often carries the emotional weight of WINNER’s songs. Over the years, he has evolved from a trainee with raw potential into a polished lead vocalist, taking on more challenging parts and demonstrating remarkable growth. Beyond group activities, Jinu has also established himself as a solo artist with the single album Jinu’s Heyday and has ventured into acting, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.
Off-stage, Jinu is known for his gentle, introverted personality (ISFJ), his deep love for his pet Sphynx cats, and his commitment to charitable work. He is a beloved figure not only within the K-pop community but also among the general public for his humility and kindness.
Early Life and Education
Childhood on Imja Island
Kim Jin-woo was born on September 26, 1991, on Imja Island (also known as the “Island of Angels”), located in Sinan County, South Jeolla Province, South Korea. He is the middle child of three siblings, with an older sister, Kim Hee-ra (born 1989), and a younger sister, Kim Jin-hee (born 1999).
Jinu’s early life was shaped by the sea. His father worked as a captain of a fishing boat, often absent from home for three to six months at a time due to the nature of the fishing industry. As a result, Jinu was primarily raised by his grandmother, to whom he remains deeply attached. He has spoken fondly of his grandmother, crediting her for much of his upbringing.
The family moved to Mokpo when Jinu was seven years old, where he spent the rest of his childhood and adolescence. He attended Mokpo Sangdong Elementary School and Mokpo Yudal Middle School.
High School and Early Aspirations
Contrary to what one might expect from a future K-pop idol, Jinu did not initially pursue the arts. He majored in Chemical Engineering and graduated from Mokpo Technical High School. It was during his second year of high school that he discovered his passion for performance. Inspired by the late actress Choi Jin-sil, he decided to pursue acting.
University Education
Jinu is enrolled in the Entertainment Department at International Cyber University, balancing his academic pursuits with his demanding career as an idol. He also completed his mandatory military service as a social service worker from April 2, 2020, to December 31, 2021.
Career Journey
Pre-Debut: Trainee Days and Survival Show
Jinu’s path to debut was unconventional. He was scouted by Seungri of BIGBANG, who encouraged him to audition for YG Entertainment. He joined YG as a trainee in 2010 and trained for approximately four years before debuting.
In 2013, Jinu was selected as a contestant on the Mnet survival show WIN: Who Is Next, which pitted YG’s trainee teams (Team A and Team B) against each other. As a member of Team A, alongside future WINNER members Kang Seung-yoon, Lee Seung-hoon, Song Min-ho, and Nam Tae-hyun, Jinu faced immense pressure. The show was gruelling, and the stakes were high-the winning team would debut as YG’s next boy group.
During the final episode, when Team A was announced as the winner, Jinu became emotional and even experienced a nosebleed from the sheer tension and relief. This moment became iconic among fans, symbolising the intense dedication and emotional investment of the trainees. Team A’s victory secured their debut, and they were named WINNER.
Official Debut with WINNER (2014)
WINNER officially debuted on August 12, 2014, with their full-length studio album 2014 S/S. The album was a commercial success, topping the Gaon Album Chart, and its lead single “Empty” topped the Gaon Digital Chart. Jinu’s vocal contributions were immediately praised, with his soft yet powerful delivery becoming a signature element of WINNER’s sound.
Over the years, WINNER has released numerous hit songs, including “Really Really” (2017), which surpassed 100 million streams on the Gaon Music Chart and sold over 2.5 million digital copies in South Korea. The group’s discography includes multiple studio albums, EPs, and Japanese releases, solidifying their status as one of the top boy groups in K-pop.
Vocal Growth and Artistic Evolution
At the time of his debut, Jinu’s vocal skills were considered slightly lacking compared to his bandmates. However, through relentless practice and dedication, he improved remarkably after 2017, when he took on more prominent lead vocal parts. His growth has been widely acknowledged by fans and critics alike, with many noting his increased stability, range, and emotional expression.
Jinu is known for often singing the “killing parts” of WINNER’s songs, thanks to his unique, refreshing vocal tone. Tracks like “Fool” and “Remember” showcase his ability to convey deep emotion, making him an indispensable part of the group’s musical identity.
Solo Debut: “Jinu’s Heyday” (2019)
Jinu made his solo debut on August 14, 2019, with the single album Jinu’s Heyday. The album featured the title track “Call Anytime” (featuring Mino), a catchy, upbeat song that highlighted Jinu’s versatility as a solo artist. The release was well-received, demonstrating that he could hold his own outside the group dynamic.
Military Service (2020–2021)
Jinu enlisted for his mandatory military service on April 2, 2020, serving as a social service worker. He was officially discharged on December 31, 2021. During his service, he maintained a low profile, but his return was eagerly anticipated by fans. Upon his discharge, he rejoined WINNER for their subsequent activities, including the release of their fourth mini-album in July 2022.
Acting Career
Beyond music, Jinu has pursued acting, appearing in various projects. He made his acting debut in the web drama Love for a Thousand More (2019) and has since taken on roles that showcase his range as a performer. While his acting filmography is not as extensive as his music career, it remains an area of interest and potential growth for the artist.
Personal Life
Family Background
Jinu comes from a close-knit family. He has two sisters: Kim Hee-ra (born 1989) and Kim Jin-hee (born 1999). His father, Kim Yong-un, worked as a fishing boat captain, a profession Jinu initially disliked but later came to respect and feel proud of.
Interestingly, Jinu has a distant relationship with his younger sister Jin-hee, who is eight years younger. They barely talk to each other, and she once wrote him an online letter during his military service, but he didn’t read it because he had received too many.
Pets: Ray and Bay
Jinu is a devoted pet owner. Despite being allergic to cats, he takes medication so he can keep his two Sphynx cats, named Ray and Bay. He has said that if he were born as a cat, he would be a Sphynx.
Religion and Beliefs
Jinu is a Protestant Christian.
Relationship Status
Jinu’s current relationship status is not publicly confirmed. Like many K-pop idols, he keeps his personal life private. In a past interview, he mentioned that he thinks he will get married before his bandmate Lee Seung-hoon (Hoony), but this was made in a lighthearted context.
Net Worth
Jinu’s exact net worth is not publicly available. As a member of WINNER, a top-tier K-pop group, and a solo artist under YG Entertainment, his income is derived from album sales, concerts, merchandise, endorsements, and royalties. Estimates suggest his net worth is in the range of several million US dollars, but these figures are speculative.
Social Media Profiles
Jinu maintains a presence on social media, primarily through Instagram:
- Instagram: @xx_jxxu (Private account)
He does not have a publicly known Twitter/X or TikTok account. Official updates can be found through WINNER’s group channels and YG Entertainment’s official platforms.
Interesting Facts About Jinu (WINNER)
- Island Origins: Jinu was born on Imja Island, a small island off the coast of South Jeolla Province, earning him the nickname “Island Boy”.
- Scouted by Seungri: He was scouted by BIGBANG’s Seungri, who encouraged him to audition for YG Entertainment.
- Chemical Engineering Major: Before becoming a singer, Jinu studied Chemical Engineering in high school.
- Nosebleed Moment: He became so emotional when Team A won WIN: Who Is Next that he got a nosebleed.
- Cat Lover with Allergies: Despite being allergic to cats, he owns two Sphynx cats, Ray and Bay, and takes medication to keep them.
- Solo Debut: He made his solo debut on August 14, 2019, with the single album Jinu’s Heyday.
- MBTI Type: Jinu’s MBTI type is ISFJ, known as the “Defender” personality, characterised by being warm, conscientious, and reserved.
- Role Model: He considers former BIGBANG member Seungri as his role model.
- Philanthropy: He frequently participates in charitable activities.
- Close Friends: He is close with B.I, Bobby, and Jay of iKON.
- Cooking Skills: He learned how to cook cold ramen from Sechskies’s Eun Ji-won.
- Hobbies: His hobbies include swimming, watching dramas, and playing games.
- Awkward Sibling Relationship: He has a distant relationship with his younger sister and they barely talk.
- Complement He Loves: He wants to hear “You look handsome” anytime.
- Father’s Profession: He initially disliked his father’s job as a fisherman but now feels proud of him.
- Raised by Grandmother: He was raised by his grandmother and is most attached to her.
- Military Service: He served as a social service worker from April 2, 2020, to December 31, 2021.
- Blood Type: Jinu has blood type A.
- Height: His height is approximately 174–177 cm (5’8½” – 5’10”).
- Zodiac Sign: As a Libra, he is known for being balanced and harmonious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Jinu in WINNER?
Jinu (Kim Jin-woo) is the lead vocalist and visual of the K-pop boy group WINNER under YG Entertainment.
2. What is Jinu’s real name?
Jinu’s real name is Kim Jin-woo (김진우).
3. When is Jinu’s birthday?
Jinu’s birthday is September 26, 1991.
4. How old is Jinu in 2026?
Jinu is 34 years old (international age) in 2026.
5. How tall is Jinu?
Jinu’s height is approximately 174–177 cm (5’8½” – 5’10”).
6. What is Jinu’s weight?
Jinu’s weight is approximately 58 kg (128 lbs).
7. What is Jinu’s blood type?
8. What is Jinu’s MBTI type?
9. When did Jinu debut with WINNER?
Jinu debuted with WINNER on August 12, 2014.
10. When did Jinu make his solo debut?
Jinu made his solo debut on August 14, 2019, with the single album Jinu’s Heyday.
11. What is Jinu’s solo debut song?
Jinu’s solo debut song is “Call Anytime” (featuring Mino).
12. Did Jinu serve in the military?
Yes, Jinu served as a social service worker from April 2, 2020, to December 31, 2021.
13. What is Jinu’s Instagram?
Jinu’s Instagram handle is @xx_jxxu (private).
14. Does Jinu have pets?
Yes, Jinu has two Sphynx cats named Ray and Bay.
15. Is Jinu allergic to cats?
Yes, Jinu is allergic to cats but takes medication so he can keep his pets.
16. What are Jinu’s hobbies?
Jinu’s hobbies include swimming, watching dramas, and playing games.
17. Who is Jinu’s role model?
Jinu considers former BIGBANG member Seungri as his role model.
18. What is Jinu’s zodiac sign?
19. Where was Jinu born?
Jinu was born on Imja Island, Sinan County, South Jeolla Province, South Korea.
20. What is Jinu’s position in WINNER?
Jinu is the lead vocalist and visual of WINNER.
21. What is Jinu’s net worth?
Jinu’s net worth is not publicly available.
22. Is Jinu dating anyone?
Jinu’s relationship status is not publicly confirmed.
23. What is Jinu’s fandom name?
Jinu’s fandom is Inner Circle (WINNER’s official fandom name).
24. What agency is Jinu under?
Jinu is under YG Entertainment.
25. What was Jinu’s former stage name?
Jinu’s former stage name was Jinwoo.
Conclusion
Kim Jin-woo, known to the world as Jinu, is more than just a lead vocalist and visual of WINNER. He is a testament to the power of perseverance, having journeyed from a remote island to the global stage. His story-from being scouted by a BIGBANG member to surviving a high-stakes survival show-resonates with fans who admire his humility, dedication, and growth.
in 2026, Jinu continues to be an active and beloved member of WINNER, balancing group activities with his solo pursuits and personal interests. His gentle personality, combined with his undeniable talent, ensures that he remains a cherished figure in the K-pop industry. Whether through his emotive vocals, his philanthropic efforts, or his candid interactions with fans, Jinu exemplifies what it means to be a true artist.
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