Kim Jaejoong Becomes the First K-pop Idol Grandpa — What’s Going On?

Singer and actor Kim Jaejoong recently surprised fans with unexpected family news — he’s about to become a grandfather.

On March 24, Kim posted on his Instagram Story, writing, “A new life has been born into my niece’s family,” before adding, “In 10 months, I’ll be a grandfather. The very first idol grandfather.” Alongside the message, he shared a photo of himself looking adorably shocked, as if still trying to process the news.

Fans found the moment both hilarious and heartwarming — not just for the news itself, but for Kim’s honest reaction.

Kim Jaejoong has previously opened up about his complex family background on various variety shows. The youngest son in a family of eight older sisters, he was adopted at the age of three. He only learned that he wasn’t his adoptive parents' biological child during his teenage years — after debuting as a member of TVXQ.

His story sparked public discussion, especially when his biological mother, Oh Seo-jin, appeared on multiple television programs including Mnet’s Superstar K, frequently referencing him and causing some controversy.

Kim Jaejoong first rose to fame in 2003 as a member of the five-member K-pop group TVXQ, launched by SM Entertainment. With hit songs like "Hug," "The Way U Are," "Rising Sun," "O-Jung.Ban.Hap," and "Mirotic," the group enjoyed massive success both in Korea and internationally.

In 2009, citing unfair contract terms, Kim left SM Entertainment. Since then he has successfully built a solo career as both a singer and actor.

Most recently, on March 21, his self-founded agency, inkode entertainment, announced a major investment deal totaling 12 billion KRW (approximately $8.2 million USD), backed by firms including Stick Ventures, CJ Investment, SL Investment, and Mirae Asset Venture Investment. The company expressed plans to grow into a global powerhouse in K-pop and K-culture.

Currently, inkode is home to artists such as the girl group SAY MY NAME and former KARA member Nicole.