Jus2 (Korean: 저스투) is a South Korean R&B duo consisting of singers Jay B and Yugyeom, who are also members of the boy band GOT7.[1][2] Formed as a sub-unit by JYP Entertainment, the duo debuted on March 5, 2019, with their first extended playFocus, which emphasizes alternative R&B styles and vocal harmonies.[3][4]The EP Focus includes six tracks, such as the lead single "Focus on Me," "Drunk on You," and "Touch," with Jay B and Yugyeom co-writing and co-composing multiple songs to showcase their creative involvement.[5] Upon release, Focus achieved commercial success, debuting at number 6 on the Billboard World Albums chart, marking a strong entry for the duo in the K-pop landscape.[6][7]Following GOT7's departure from JYP Entertainment in January 2021 after the expiration of their contracts, Jus2 entered an indefinite hiatus, with no further group releases as of 2025; both members have since pursued successful solo careers, including Jay B's albums under Mauve Company and Yugyeom's solo career since 2021, including his first studio album in 2024.[8][9][10][11]
Members
Jay B
Lim Jae-beom, better known by his stage names Jay B (formerly JB) and Defsoul, was born on January 6, 1994, in Siheung, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.[12]He joined JYP Entertainment in 2009 after being scouted at a b-boy competition before debuting as the leader, main vocalist, and rapper of the seven-member boy group GOT7 on January 20, 2014, with the EP Got It?.[13]In the duo Jus2, formed with fellow GOT7 member Yugyeom, Jay B served as the leader and main vocalist, contributing significantly to their creative process as the primary songwriter and producer. He co-wrote the lyrics and composed music for the title track "Focus on Me" from their debut extended play Focus (2019), alongside Yugyeom and other collaborators, and handled key production aspects for the album, including experimenting with multiple versions of the lead single. Additionally, he penned lyrics for other tracks on Focus, such as "Touch," "Senses," and "Drunk on You," emphasizing the duo's R&B-focused sound.[14][12][15]Prior to Jus2's formation, Jay B had experience in GOT7's first sub-unit, JJ Project, debuting with the duo in 2012, and released his pre-debut mixtape as Defsoul on SoundCloud in 2016, featuring self-produced tracks like "Switch Up" that showcased his budding songwriting and production skills relevant to the duo's artistic direction.Following GOT7 and Jus2's departure from JYP Entertainment in January 2021 upon contract expiration, Jay B signed with H1GHR MUSIC (2021–2022), then CDNZA Records (2022–2023), and Mauve Company (2023–present), but no additional Jus2 activities have occurred since.[16][17][18][19] In 2024, he released his debut solo album Archive 1: [Road Runner] and announced his first solo U.S. tour for 2025.[20][21]
Yugyeom
Kim Yu-gyeom (born November 17, 1997), known professionally as Yugyeom or Gyeom, is a South Korean singer, dancer, and songwriter. Born in Seoul, he developed an early interest in dance and joined the underground dance crew Body & Soul at age 14, participating in national competitions that honed his freestyle skills.[22][23] In late 2010 or early 2011, at age 13, Yugyeom became the youngest trainee at JYP Entertainment, training rigorously for about three years before debuting as the main dancer, lead vocalist, and maknae (youngest member) of the boy group GOT7 on January 20, 2014, with their EP Got It?.[13][24]In Jus2, the R&B-focused sub-unit of GOT7 formed with leader Jay B, Yugyeom served as the main dancer, secondary vocalist, and visual, bringing his dynamic performance energy to complement Jay B's vocal depth. He contributed significantly to the choreography for their debut single "Focus on Me" from the 2019 EP Focus, collaborating on revisions and suggesting changes during practice sessions to refine the sensual, synchronized moves. Yugyeom also explained the duo's name origin during promotional interviews, stating it combines "just" and "two" to reflect their straightforward pairing.[15][25]Within GOT7, Yugyeom earned the nickname "Dance King" for his powerful and versatile dancing, which influenced the sub-unit's formation by pairing his dance prowess with Jay B's vocal synergy to explore mature R&B concepts beyond the group's typical style. Prior to Jus2, his dance crew experience and trainee performances showcased a raw, expressive style that became central to the duo's stage presence. Following GOT7's departure from JYP in January 2021, Yugyeom signed with AOMG in February 2021, shifting to solo projects emphasizing dance-oriented music, with no additional Jus2 releases occurring thereafter.[12][26] As of 2025, he released his second full-length solo album Interlunar in June and announced the 'Trusty' tour for North and Latin America.[27][28]
Name and concept
Name origin
The name "Jus2" was officially announced by JYP Entertainment on February 13, 2019, through a teaser video titled "And the Story Begins," marking the formation of the duo as a sub-unit of GOT7.[29] The name combines the English word "just," implying simplicity or exclusivity, with the numeral "2" to denote the two members, JB and Yugyeom, thereby symbolizing a pure, unadorned partnership centered solely on their collaboration.[25] During debut promotions on a radio show, Yugyeom elaborated that the duo arrived at the name organically after completing their album production, stating, "It simply means just two. We didn't have a complicated process. We just combined 'just' and '2,'" underscoring the emphasis on their essential duo chemistry without extraneous elements.[30] This straightforward etymology reflects the sub-unit's roots in GOT7's tradition of focused pairings, such as JJ Project. Initial fan reception highlighted the name's appeal for its clean, direct simplicity, which resonated well with audiences upon reveal.[12]
Artistic concept
Jus2 was formed by JYP Entertainment as a mature R&B duo to showcase the complementary strengths of JB's vocal prowess and Yugyeom's dance expertise in an intimate duo setting, announced in February 2019.[3] The core concept positions the unit as a "grown-up" evolution from GOT7's broader, high-energy appeal, emphasizing seamless vocal harmonies, synchronized choreography, and introspectivelyrics centered on love, focus, and emotional intimacy.[31] This approach allows the members to explore a reserved, sensual style distinct from the group's typical pop dynamics, with JB noting their intent to present a more mature side through R&B influences.[12]Visually, Jus2 adopts sleek, minimalist aesthetics in promotions and music videos, utilizing artistic sets and negative space to evoke immersion and elegance, as seen in the exhibition-like environments of their debut visuals.[32] Their choreography integrates contemporary dance fluidity with R&B grooves, prioritizing subtle, expressive movements that highlight partnership and emotional vulnerability over overt power.[31]Yugyeom described this as a "reserved" execution, reflecting the duo's balanced interplay of strengths and subtleties.[31]Thematically, Jus2's work delves into emotional depth and relational concentration, drawing from sensory experiences like sight and touch to narrate partnership's nuances, aligning with the simplicity of their name as "just us two."[31] JYP's vision supported this by enhancing tracks with innovative elements, such as synthesizer layers added by founder Park Jin-young, to amplify the duo's creative synergy and introspective focus.[31]
History
Formation and debut (2019)
On February 13, 2019, JYP Entertainment announced the formation of Jus2 as GOT7's second sub-unit, consisting of members JB and Yugyeom, who were selected to showcase a synergy between JB's role as the group's main vocalist and Yugyeom's position as its main dancer following internal discussions within the agency.[3][4] The announcement highlighted the duo's potential to explore a mature R&B concept emphasizing vocal expression and intricate choreography.Pre-debut preparations began shortly after, with concept photos for the upcoming EP Focus released in late February 2019, featuring the members in sleek, minimalist attire to tease the project's sensual and focused aesthetic.[33] These efforts included filming the music video for the title track "Focus on Me," directed to capture multidimensional visuals and synchronized dance sequences that aligned with the sub-unit's artistic vision.Jus2 officially debuted with the EP Focus on March 5, 2019, comprising six tracks that blended R&B grooves with electronic elements, led by the single "Focus on Me." The music video for "Focus on Me" premiered on March 3, 2019, garnering attention for its artistic glitch effects and the duo's chemistry.[34] Their first live performance took place on Mnet's M Countdown on March 7, 2019, where they delivered a polished stage that emphasized vocal harmonies and dynamic footwork.[15] Later that month, on March 25, 2019, Jus2 released the OST single "Take" for the drama He Is Psychometric, starring fellow GOT7 member Jinyoung.[35]The EP received positive initial reception, peaking at number 2 on the Gaon Album Chart in its debut week and reaching number 6 on the Billboard World Albums chart, reflecting strong domestic sales and international interest.[36][6]
Activities and departure (2020–2021)
In 2020, Jus2 did not release any new music, with JB and Yugyeom instead prioritizing activities for their parent group GOT7's fourth studio albumBreath of Love: Last Piece, which was released on November 30, 2020, under JYP Entertainment. The duo had been scheduled to perform at the "Music Bank World Tour in Dubai" on March 21, 2020, alongside acts like EXO's Baekhyun, MONSTA X, SEVENTEEN, and TWICE, but the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[37] Their visibility as a unit remained limited, as the members participated in GOT7's promotional interviews and content for the album in late 2020, marking their final joint appearances under JYP.The subunit entered an extended hiatus amid ongoing contract renewal discussions for GOT7, which reduced group and subunit schedules throughout the year. On January 11, 2021, JYP Entertainment confirmed that all seven GOT7 members, including JB and Yugyeom, would not renew their contracts upon expiration, stating the agency respected their decisions to pursue individual paths while expressing hopes for future collaborations.[38]Jus2's contract with JYP officially ended on January 19, 2021, leading both members to depart the agency and focus on solo endeavors, placing the duo on indefinite hiatus. No further music or promotions have been released under the Jus2 name since their 2019 debut EP Focus. In a February 2021 Instagram Live, JB affirmed his intent to continue promoting Jus2 alongside GOT7 activities, reflecting fondly on the subunit's R&B-focused concept.[39]
Discography
Extended plays
Jus2 debuted with their first and only extended play, FOCUS, released on March 5, 2019, by JYP Entertainment. The mini album consists of six tracks centered on an R&B theme exploring the senses, with "Focus on Me" serving as the lead single. The EP was produced primarily by the JYP Entertainment team, with significant input from the duo: Jay B (under his artist name Defsoul) and Yugyeom contributed lyrics to the title track "Focus on Me," while Defsoul also handled lyrics for "Drunk on You" and "Touch."[40][41]The track listing emphasizes smooth, sensual R&B arrangements, blending electronic elements with the duo's vocal harmonies and choreography-focused performances.
Lyrics: Yugyeom; Music/Arrangement: Re:One, Effn, Karla Maria Vel
Total length: 20:52[42][41][40])Commercially, FOCUS achieved solid performance in its debut week, selling 89,107 copies in March 2019 (Gaon) and peaking at number 2 on the Gaon Album Chart. It debuted at number 6 on the Billboard World Albums chart with 1,000 units sold, marking a top 10 entry for the duo. The Japanese edition, released on April 10, 2019, sold 13,252 copies in its first week, peaking at number 7 on the Oricon Albums Chart. Overall Korean sales reached approximately 89,107 copies as of 2019, establishing the EP's impact without reaching certification thresholds.[43][44][6])Critics praised FOCUS for its cohesive R&B sound, highlighting the duo's mature vocals and the EP's sultry, atmospheric production that unified its sensory theme. Reviews noted the tracks' electronic edges and minimalist grooves as a refreshing departure for JYP acts, with "Focus on Me" particularly commended for its hypnotic rhythm. No further extended plays were released by Jus2 following FOCUS as of November 2025.[45][46][47]
Singles
Jus2 released their only lead single, "Focus On Me", on March 5, 2019, as the title track of their debut extended playFocus. The track, a sensual R&B number showcasing the duo's vocal and dancesynergy, was distributed digitally without a physical single release."Focus On Me" achieved moderate commercial success, peaking at number 23 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart in its debut week. The single's promotion included live performances on prominent South Korean music programs, such as Inkigayo on SBS, where Jus2 delivered choreographed stages emphasizing their charismatic stage presence.Internationally, "Focus On Me" resonated strongly in Southeast Asia, contributing to sold-out showcase tours in cities like Singapore as part of the Focus Premiere Showcase Tour. As Jus2's sole lead single during their active period, it highlighted their unit concept without further standalone releases.)[6]
Soundtrack appearances
Jus2 made their sole contribution to television soundtracks with the release of "Take" on March 26, 2019, as Part 1 of the original soundtrack for the tvN drama He Is Psychometric, which starred their fellow GOT7 member Jinyoung in the lead role.[35][48]The track is a ballad-style duet that emphasizes the duo's vocal harmonies and emotional delivery, composed by Ha Hyun Sang and Jayins with lyrics penned by Naiv.[49][50] Released in conjunction with the drama's early episodes, "Take" served as a romantic underscore and garnered attention for highlighting JB and Yugyeom's chemistry as performers, though it did not achieve significant chart prominence beyond niche recognition.[35]Jus2 has not released any additional soundtrack singles as a duo following this appearance as of November 2025.[48]
Tours and concerts
Showcase tours
Jus2 embarked on their debut promotional tour, the FOCUS Premiere Showcase Tour, from April to May 2019, shortly after releasing their self-titled extended playFocus. The tour served as the primary international platform to showcase the duo's new music, emphasizing R&B-influenced performances and building fan engagement across Asia. Organized by JYP Entertainment, it featured no legs in North America or other regions beyond the continent, focusing instead on key markets to establish Jus2's presence as a subunit of GOT7.[51]The showcase format consisted of mini-concerts lasting approximately two hours, centered on tracks from Focus such as the lead single "Focus on Me," alongside solo performances by JB and Yugyeom, and select GOT7 hits like "Hard Carry" and "Never Ever." Each show incorporated interactive elements, including Q&A sessions divided into themes about the duo, individual members, and fans; games with penalties like dance challenges; and unique fan engagements such as 30-second staring contests. Special guest MCs from GOT7, including Mark Tuan and BamBam, hosted several dates to enhance the familial connection with audiences. Venues accommodated between 1,000 and 5,000 attendees, with capacities varying by location— for instance, Thunder Dome in Bangkok held up to 5,000. The tour drew strong attendance, with the three-night Bangkok residency selling out and mobilizing over 13,500 fans total.[52][53]
The tour concluded successfully in Singapore, marking Jus2's first major outing as a duo and solidifying their appeal through intimate, high-energy productions.[54]
Live performances
Jus2 debuted on the music program M! Countdown on March 7, 2019, where they performed their lead single "Focus on Me" for the first time, showcasing their synchronized choreography and vocal harmony.[55]Following their debut, the duo appeared on several major South Korean music shows to promote their mini-album Focus. They performed "Focus on Me" on KBS's Music Bank on March 8, 2019, delivering a polished stage that highlighted JB's rap verses and Yugyeom's dance breaks.[56] On SBS's Inkigayo, Jus2 took the stage on March 10 and March 17, 2019, maintaining high energy with intricate formations and live vocals amid the competitive broadcast environment.[57][58] They also returned to Music Bank on March 15, 2019, for another rendition that emphasized their R&B-infused style.[59]In addition to broadcast appearances, Jus2 engaged fans through virtual platforms during their promotional period. On March 5, 2019, coinciding with the album release, they hosted the Jus2 Live Premiere on V Live, featuring live performances of tracks from Focus, interactive fan call-ins, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into their preparation process. This event allowed global audiences to connect directly with the duo, including Q&A sessions and casual discussions about their subunit formation.[60]After completing their showcase tour in mid-2019, Jus2 made occasional appearances as a subunit within GOT7's live events, such as select joint sets during the group's 2019–2020 concerts, where they performed 2–3 songs from their discography to integrate their subunit work into the full ensemble. In February 2020, Jus2 was announced as a performer for the Music Bank World Tour concert in Dubai, scheduled for March 21, 2020, at the Coca-Cola Arena; however, the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[61] Following GOT7's departure from JYP Entertainment in January 2021, Jus2 entered an indefinite hiatus, with no live performances recorded since.[9]
Filmography
Variety shows
Jus2 participated in several online variety series and guest spots on television programs in 2019, primarily to promote their debut EP Focus and showcase the duo's dynamic chemistry through behind-the-scenes content and interactive challenges.The series Jus2 Moments, aired on YouTube and V Live, consisted of seven episodes that captured intimate glimpses into JB and Yugyeom's preparations for their debut, including music video filming, live performances, photoshoots, and everyday duo interactions. Released weekly starting March 15, 2019, with the first episode titled "'LONG BLACK' LIVE BEHIND," the program emphasized their playful rapport and creative process, such as dance practice sessions and promotional activities. Episodes averaged around 10 minutes in length and garnered significant viewer interest on JYP Entertainment's platforms, reflecting the duo's appeal during their initial rollout.[62][63]Complementing their promotional efforts, Jus2 Tourgraph was a four-episode V Live series launched in conjunction with their Focus Premiere Showcase Tour from March to April 2019. This travel-focused program featured vlogs of their journeys across Asia, including backstage moments, fan interactions via messages, and lighthearted challenges that highlighted their camaraderie on the road. The episodes, such as the premiere installment documenting their tour kickoff, provided fans with an engaging, behind-the-curtain perspective on the duo's live performances and off-stage adventures.[64][65]In addition to these dedicated series, Jus2 made guest appearances on established variety shows in 2019, tied to their debut promotions, focused on their vocal and dance synergy without leading to any ongoing series beyond 2019, maintaining a emphasis on light-hearted content that amplified their subunit identity. High engagement across JYP's digital channels underscored the popularity of these appearances among fans.[66]
Music videos
Jus2 released their sole official music video as a duo for the title track "Focus On Me" from their debut extended play Focus on March 3, 2019, through JYP Entertainment's YouTube channel. The approximately 4-minute video emphasizes themes of intimacy and synchronization between JB and Yugyeom, featuring urban dance sequences set against minimalist, monochromatic backdrops that evoke a sense of focused emotional connection.[67][34]Produced in studios in Seoul, the video aligns with the R&B sensuality of the track through its sleek visuals and choreography that highlights the duo's chemistry. The choreography incorporates intricate mirroring and fluid movements, with significant creative input from Yugyeom, who reportedly revised the routine 15 times to perfect its execution.[15] This approach underscores the unit's emphasis on dance as a core element of their identity.As of November 2025, the music video had accumulated approximately 45 million views on YouTube, reflecting its enduring popularity among fans. It received acclaim for its cinematography and artistic editing, with outlets praising the innovative use of looping effects and visual motifs that draw viewers into the duo's dynamic.[68] No official music video was produced for Jus2's later releases, including their soundtrack contribution "Touch," maintaining the exclusivity of this visual project to their debut.