Peniel

Peniel, born Shin Dong-geun (신동근) on March 10, 1993, and known internationally as Peniel Dong Shin, is a Korean-American rapper, singer, and dancer, and the lead rapper and vocalist of the K-pop boy group BtoB. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, he’s one of the few American-born members in the K-pop industry today, and his bicultural background has shaped much of his career.

Peniel moved to South Korea to pursue a career in entertainment, first training briefly at JYP Entertainment before joining Cube Entertainment. He was the last trainee to join what would become BtoB, and he debuted with the group on March 21, 2012, on the promotional single “Insane.” He attended Cheongdam High School after transferring from Barrington High School in the U.S., and later studied international studies at Hanyang University.

Beyond the group’s music, Peniel has carved out a notable solo career as a hip-hop artist. He released his debut solo single, “That Girl,” on June 27, 2017, as part of BtoB’s “Piece of BtoB” solo project series. In 2019 alone, he dropped three more solo tracks — “B.O.D,” “Fly23,” and “Flip” (featuring rapper Beenzino) — showcasing a party-driven, nightlife-inspired sound distinct from BtoB’s signature ballads.

In November 2020, Peniel became part of BtoB’s second official sub-unit, BtoB 4U, alongside Eunkwang, Minhyuk, and Changsub, releasing the EP Inside while fellow members Hyunsik and Sungjae were completing military service. The sub-unit followed up with 4U: Outside in 2021.

When BtoB’s contract with Cube Entertainment ended in November 2023, Peniel joined Eunkwang, Minhyuk, and Hyunsik in founding BtoB Company in February 2024 to continue the group’s activities independently.

Known for his easy charisma, fluent English, and warm rapport with both Korean and international fans, Peniel remains one of BtoB’s most recognizable global ambassadors — equally at home delivering a rap verse, acting, or connecting with MELODY around the world.