JayB (formerly JB)

Who Is JayB?

JayB (formerly known as JB), whose real name is Im Jae-beom, is a South Korean singer-songwriter, producer and leader of the K-pop group GOT7. Renowned for his smooth vocals, sharp b-boy-rooted dance skills and quiet leadership style, he has spent over a decade guiding GOT7 while carving out one of K-pop’s most respected solo and production careers.

From B-Boy to Trainee

Before entertainment, Jaebeom was a devoted b-boy performing under the name “Defsoul.” His dancing caught the attention of JYP Entertainment, and in 2009 he and fellow trainee Jinyoung won first place at a massive open audition among over 10,000 applicants, launching both of their careers.

JJ Project, GOT7 and Leadership

Jaebeom debuted first in 2012 as part of the duo JJ Project with Jinyoung, before becoming the appointed leader of GOT7 at its debut on January 16, 2014. Under the stage name JB, he guided the seven-member group through hit eras like Flight Log, 7 for 7 and Present: YOU, while writing and producing many of the group’s biggest tracks, including “You Are” and “LOOK.”

Rebranding as JayB and Going Independent

When GOT7’s contract with JYP ended in January 2021, Jaebeom changed his stage name to Jay B and signed with H1GHR Music to pursue a solo career, releasing his first EP as “Def.” He later moved through CDNZA Records and Mauve Company, releasing his debut full album, Archive 1: [Road Runner], in 2024 after completing his mandatory military service.

Leading GOT7’s Comeback

In 2025, JayB spearheaded GOT7’s long-awaited full-group comeback with the EP Winter Heptagon under Kakao Entertainment, reaffirming his role as the group’s steady leader more than a decade after debut. In January 2026, Mauve Company announced the end of its exclusive contract with him, and fans continue to watch closely for his next musical chapter.