How a South Korean rapper redefined his career after a high-profile industry departure
In short: Kim Han-bin, known as B.I, transitioned from a celebrated boy band leader to an independent solo artist and label head. After leaving his original agency in 2019, he navigated a complex path of creative reinvention, global collaborations, and international touring, ultimately establishing his own musical identity on his own terms.
B.I first gained prominence as the leader of the group iKon, where he served as the sole record producer for their releases. His work on the 2018 track Love Scenario earned him the Songwriter of the Year award at the Melon Music Awards, and the song was later named one of the 100 greatest in Korean pop history by Rolling Stone. Despite this success, his tenure ended abruptly in June 2019 following substance allegations, leading to his departure from both the group and his agency, YG Entertainment.
Rather than retreating, B.I pivoted to a solo career, founding his own label, 131. His return to music was marked by a series of ambitious projects, including the studio albums Waterfall, To Die For, and Wonderland. He expanded his reach through the global album project Love or Loved, which featured international collaborations with artists like Soulja Boy and Bipolar Sunshine. His 2023 European tour, Love or Die, saw him performing in countries where South Korean artists rarely appear, earning critical acclaim for his live performances.
Beyond his output as a performer, B.I has maintained a role as a producer and executive. He established the White Noise Club production team and has navigated various leadership roles within his own label, even stepping down and later returning as its head in 2025. His musical evolution reflects a blend of early hip-hop influences, such as Eminem and Jay-Z, alongside an appreciation for the melodic simplicity of the Beatles, allowing him to maintain a distinct creative voice while operating independently of major corporate structures.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: B.I (rapper)
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