On October 2, 2025, fans of WHIB and the popular idol survival show “BOYS II PLANET” were greeted with heartfelt news—Jayder, the charismatic leader of WHIB, is officially changing his stage name to his real name, Kim Junmin.
This announcement marks not only a personal milestone for the artist but also a symbolic new chapter in his career following his widely praised appearance on the survival competition show.
Kim Junmin, formerly known by his stage name Jayder, rose to prominence as a contestant on “BOYS II PLANET,” where he competed under his real name.
His performance throughout the show earned him admiration for his strong leadership, vocal talent, and stage presence.
He ultimately finished in 13th place, narrowly missing the final lineup of the new debut group ALPHA DRIVE ONE, but leaving a lasting impression on both viewers and industry professionals.
C-Jes Studio Announces Name Change With Official Statement
The news of Junmin’s name change was confirmed through an official statement released by C-Jes Studio, the agency managing WHIB.
The agency addressed the group’s loyal fandom, known as AnDs, with sincere gratitude and respect, stating:
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the AnDs who always support WHIB.
We are writing to inform you about the change of stage name for WHIB member Jayder.”
According to the statement, the decision to drop the stage name Jayder and proceed with his birth name, Kim Junmin, was made after thoughtful discussion.
Junmin himself expressed a strong desire to be recognized under his real name moving forward, aligning with his personal and professional growth since “BOYS II PLANET.”
“After long discussions, Jayder, who wished to pursue activities under his real name, will officially change his stage name to Kim Junmin starting from October 2, 2025,” the agency added.
Symbolic Transition: From Jayder to Kim Junmin
The change from a stylized stage name to a real name signifies a deep and deliberate shift in identity. In the highly competitive K-pop and idol industry, stage names are often carefully crafted for branding and memorability.
However, some artists eventually opt to use their real names to project a more authentic image—especially when seeking longevity and emotional resonance with fans.
For Kim Junmin, this transition is not only a personal decision but also a strategic move that reflects his evolution from trainee to performer, and now to a recognized figure in the K-pop scene.
His experience on “BOYS II PLANET” appears to have been transformative, giving him a fresh sense of purpose and clarity about how he wants to present himself moving forward.
By using his birth name, Junmin may be seeking to bridge the gap between the idol persona and the real person behind the stage lights, offering fans a more intimate connection.
Impact of “BOYS II PLANET” on Kim Junmin’s Career
“BOYS II PLANET,” the sequel to the popular show “Boys Planet,” brought together dozens of talented trainees and idols, including established group members like Junmin, to compete for a spot in a new global boy group. Throughout the show, Junmin consistently showcased his abilities as a seasoned performer, often stepping into leadership roles during team missions and earning praise for his vocal stability and maturity.
Although he didn’t make it into the final debut lineup, his 13th-place finish was no small feat—especially considering the fierce competition and immense global exposure of the show. The experience undoubtedly expanded his fanbase and elevated his profile within and beyond WHIB’s existing audience.
Now, as Kim Junmin, he has the opportunity to capitalize on the momentum generated by the show and reintroduce himself to the public on his own terms.
A New Era for WHIB and Their Leader
WHIB, under the representation of C-Jes Studio, is one of the rising idol groups in the fourth generation of K-pop. With their leader embracing a renewed image, the group is likely to experience a period of reinvention and growth as well. Fans can expect new music, stages, and content reflecting the identity shift of their leader.
The agency’s statement concluded with a warm message of support, urging fans to continue their love for Junmin and WHIB:
“Please continue to give your love and support to Junmin as he embarks on this new journey, and let’s keep supporting WHIB together.”
This gesture demonstrates the agency’s commitment to Junmin’s personal vision and their understanding of how important name identity can be in shaping an artist’s trajectory.
What’s Next for Kim Junmin?
While there are no official announcements yet about upcoming solo activities or WHIB comebacks, it is clear that Kim Junmin is poised for a dynamic second chapter.
Having just emerged from the high-pressure environment of a survival show, he now carries with him a blend of new experience, public recognition, and momentum that will likely influence WHIB’s future direction.
Fans can relive his journey by watching “BOYS II PLANET” on Viki and look forward to his next steps—this time, under the name Kim Junmin.
