B.I Shines at 8WONDER: Talent Compared to G-Dragon and Insights into BLACKPINK’s Debut Success

The excitement within the K-pop community has surged following rapper B.I’s confirmation of his attendance at the 8WONDER Moon Festival, scheduled to take place in Ocean City, recognized as the “new destination city” east of Hanoi. This festival is set to be the largest international music festival of 2024, bringing together numerous domestic and international stars in the capital of Vietnam.

This will mark B.I’s third visit to Vietnam and his first return as a solo artist, prompting K-pop fans to rush to secure tickets for this unprecedented festival featuring the popular rapper.

B.I – The Multi-Talented Leader of iKON, Comparison to G-Dragon for Songwriting

B.I, whose real name is Kim Han Bin, was born in 1996 and first gained recognition as a rapper on MC Mong’s song “Indian Boy” at the young age of 13. In January 2011, he became a trainee at YG Entertainment and gained further fame through the survival show “Show Me The Money 3,” where he showcased his original composition “BE I,” which was hailed as one of the standout performances of the season.

After participating in the survival program “Mix & Match,” B.I secured his position as the leader of the 7-member group iKON in 2015. His debut composition for iKON, “My Type,” was regarded as a significant milestone, with YG Entertainment aspiring for iKON to become a “Gen 3 monster,” following the success of groups like BIGBANG and WINNER.

In recognition of his talents, B.I became the first K-pop idol to earn the “Songwriter of the Year” award at the 2018 MelOn Music Awards for his hit “Love Scenario.” This song garnered numerous awards and became a favorite across South Korea.

Aside from his work with iKON, B.I has penned hits for top K-pop artists, including “Empty” (WINNER), “Born Hater” (Epik High), and collaborated with PSY on tracks like “Bomb,” “Last Scene,” and “Auto Reverse.” He was also a co-writer for BLACKPINK’s breakout single “Whistle,” showcasing his exceptional songwriting skills that have drawn comparisons to G-Dragon of BIGBANG, both of whom represent the creative core of their groups.

B.I’s Departure from iKON and YG Entertainment Due to Drug Scandal

Rebuilding His Career as a Solo Artist

In 2021, B.I made a comeback after a period away from the spotlight. He released the “Midnight Blue” album, donating proceeds to support children in crisis. His return was highlighted by the MV “Got It Like That,” featuring collaborations with Destiny Rogers and Tyla Yaweh.

He continued his successful resurgence with the albums “Waterfall” and “Cosmos,” with “Waterfall” dominating iTunes charts in 18 countries, becoming one of the highest-selling solo albums by a Korean artist in 2021.

Despite the controversies surrounding his past, B.I has maintained a devoted fanbase due to his undeniable talent since leading iKON. He is actively rebuilding his solo career and is set to tour across 14 European countries. His eagerly awaited appearance at the 8WONDER Moon Festival in Hanoi is anticipated to be a highlight of the event.

The 8WONDER Moon Festival is set to take place at Ocean City on September 14, 2024, featuring B.I alongside notable Vietnamese artists such as Binz, Chi Pu, Orange, and Low G.

For music lovers, the 8WONDER Moon Festival 2024 will also present a 3-day international autumn festival from September 13 to 15, 2024. Visitors can expect a vibrant celebration of European autumn culture, including an Italian food festival, Beer Land, an EDM Orchestra Fest paired with fashion shows, street art performances, and the Hanoi autumn festival. This promises a rich and layered experience for attendees in Ocean City this September.

Source: K14