Rain (also known as Bi which means Rain in English) is a well known actor and singer in South Korea whose real name is Jung Ji-hoon. He has a very deep and rich voice and amazing dancing skills, being a very well-rounded entertainer.
First Drop
Rain discovered his passion for dancing ever since he was in the 6th grade. As a teenager, he was part of the boy band called“Fanclub”. Years after the group ended, Park Jin Young①took Rain under his wings and trained him for years in dancing and singing. During those training years, Rain lied to his parents telling them he was gonna study in the library while in fact he went to the dance studio. He struggled financially and at times had to go without meals.
Finally in 2002 he debuted with the song “Bad Guy”, charming fans with his singing and powerful dancing. After the first album, he starred in the drama “Sangdoo, Let's Go to School”; many people were impressed by his acting skills. Following the success of his debut, he came back with a new style in his 2nd album and hit song “How to Avoid the Sun”. In 2004 he released the 3rd album “It's Raining” and starred in another successful drama called “Full House” and was one of the highest rating Korean dramas. “It's Raining” has sold more than 1 million in Asia. His concert called “Rainy day” which was held in Korea and Japan had concert tickets sold out on the first day.
The Pledge with Mom
Since his debut in 2002, Rain has been one of the most popular Korean artists in Asia. The success he achieved through his hard work is a promise that he made to his late mother. He cannot hide down his missing to the bone his mother who was unconditionally on his son's side during her life, “My mother would often say I might do something great someday. I didn't do something great yet, so without stopping here I think I shall do something world-great someday.”
Rain vs. Jay
In just two months since this K-popster launched his album in Asia, Rain has become such a pop phenomenon. Reports have it that he has an even bigger ambition—to replace Taiwanese R&B prince Jay Chou's royal status. But when quizzed by reporters about his rivalry with Jay, Rain said he was glad to work with Jay if there's a chance.
It’s Raining
In 2004, Rain received the“KBS Daesang Award②”in Korea and he has won the MTV Asia Grand Slam③. He was invited to perform in the American MTV Video Music Awards 2005 and also at the MTV Latin Video Music Awards 2005. But why stop there? Rain's managers believe he could be the first Korean star to break into the U.S. market, “We're targeting the global market. Rain's too big for Asia.”
