Sam Kim is a Korean-American singer-songwriter, producer, and guitarist renowned for his soulful blend of R&B, pop, soul, folk, and jazz influences.[1] Born in Seattle, Washington, in 1998, he first gained widespread recognition in South Korea as the runner-up on the third season of the SBS talent competition K-pop Star in 2014, which led to his signing with Antenna Music.[2]Kim made his official debut in 2016 at the age of 18 with the EP I Am Sam, showcasing his guitar skills and emotive vocals through self-written tracks.[1] He followed this with his first full-length album, Sun and Moon, in 2018, which he fully composed, arranged, and produced, earning praise for its introspective lyrics and collaborations with artists like Crush and Zico.[1][3] Over the years, Kim contributed to soundtracks, including the OST "Love Me Like That" for the drama I Know But... in 2021, and the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial theme song "Closer" with Jukjae and Kwon Jin Ah.[1]In March 2024, after a decade with Antenna Music, Kim's exclusive contract concluded amicably, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career.[4] Later that year, on September 20, he signed with Herbigharo, the agency founded by fellow singer Park Hyo-shin, signaling a new phase focused on expanded creative endeavors.[5] As of 2025, Kim continues to release music, including the OST "Like a Moonlight" for the SBS drama Love Scout, solidifying his status as a versatile artist bridging American and Korean music scenes.[5]
Early life
Family background
Sam Kim was born Kim Gun-ji on February 19, 1998, in Federal Way, Washington, to Korean immigrant parents in a Korean-American household.[6][7] He grew up as the eldest child in a family that emphasized cultural ties to South Korea while navigating life in the United States.[8]His father, Hansoo Kim, was a 58-year-old Korean-American entrepreneur who co-owned and operated Rainier Teriyaki, a family-run restaurant in Seattle's Rainier Valley neighborhood, reflecting the common immigrant experience of establishing small businesses in the local community.[9][10] Tragically, Hansoo Kim was fatally shot during an armed robbery at the restaurant on January 14, 2023, an event that deeply affected the family and prompted Sam Kim to adapt his song "Don't Worry"—originally written for his mother—to honor his father's memory.[11][12] Following the incident, his younger brother Jooyoung reopened the restaurant in April 2023 to continue the family legacy.[13]Sam Kim has two younger siblings: a sister named Sujin and a brother named Jooyoung, with whom he shares a close bond, often highlighted in lighthearted family interactions shared through media appearances.[6][7] His mother, whose name has not been publicly disclosed, has been a supportive figure in his life, particularly noted in his songwriting inspirations.[11] The family's bilingual environment and emphasis on music fostered Kim's early interests, blending American and Korean influences from a young age.[8]
Education and early interests
Sam Kim spent his early years in Federal Way, Washington, as the eldest of three siblings. From a young age, music became integral to his life.[8]Kim attended Todd Beamer High School in Federal Way, during which his passion for music deepened significantly. He frequently skipped classes to roam the hallways with his guitar in hand, performing covers of favorite songs for classmates and demonstrating an emerging talent as a guitarist and vocalist. This period marked the shift to more self-expressive pursuits, including acoustic performances that highlighted his prodigious guitar skills.[8][14]At age 15, in 2013, Kim relocated to South Korea after passing preliminary auditions, a move that propelled his musical ambitions forward. Shortly after arriving, he auditioned for the third season of the SBS talent show K-pop Star, accompanying himself on acoustic guitar and advancing to become the runner-up. This exposure not only validated his early dedication to music but also ignited his interest in songwriting and production within the K-pop industry.[15][16][17][6]
Career
K-pop Star 3 and debut
Sam Kim, a Korean-American singer-songwriter born in 1998 in Seattle, Washington, gained early prominence through his participation in the third season of SBS's audition program K-pop Star in 2014. At age 15, he auditioned in Los Angeles and advanced to the main competition in South Korea, showcasing his guitar skills and soulful vocals that blended R&B influences with acoustic elements.[18][8]Throughout the competition, Kim impressed judges and audiences with distinctive covers, including a reimagined version of Big Bang's "Lie" infused with his personal flair and Sting's "Englishman in New York," which highlighted his groove-oriented guitar performance and emotional depth. His ability to merge Western pop sensibilities with K-pop's energy earned him a dedicated fanbase, leading him to the finals where he competed against Bernard Park. On April 13, 2014, Kim finished as runner-up, with Park declared the winner.[16][19]Following the show, Kim signed with Antenna Music, the label headed by judge and producer Yoo Hee-yeol, who recognized his potential as a singer-songwriter. This affiliation provided a platform for his professional development over the next two years, during which he honed his songwriting and production skills.[8][18]Kim made his official debut under Antenna on April 10, 2016, with the EP I Am Sam, following a pre-release part titled My Name Is Sam on March 28, 2016. The full EP featured six tracks, led by the single "No Sense" (NO눈치) featuring Crush, which peaked at number 37 on the Gaon Digital Chart and showcased Kim's introspective lyrics about relationships over smooth R&B production. Other notable tracks included "Seattle," a nod to his hometown, and "Mama Don't Worry," emphasizing themes of familial reassurance. The release marked Kim's transition from contestant to established artist, blending acoustic folk with contemporary R&B to establish his signature sound.[20][21][22]
Antenna Music years (2016–2023)
In 2016, Sam Kim made his official debut under Antenna Music with the EP I Am Sam, released on April 10, following a pre-release mini-album My Name Is Sam on March 28 that featured self-composed tracks including the single "Mama Don't Worry."[23][20] The EP showcased his soulful vocals and guitar skills, blending R&B, pop, and indie elements, and marked his transition from audition show contestant to professional artist. Later that year, he contributed the track "Who Are You" to the soundtrack of the popular drama Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin), released on December 25, which became one of the OST's standout songs and helped elevate his profile in the K-drama music scene.[24]Throughout 2017 and 2018, Kim continued building his catalog with collaborations and his first full-length album. He teamed up with labelmate Kwon Jin Ah for "For Now" and "Everyday" on the The Lovebirds: Year 1 X Antenna OST, highlighting his versatility in duet formats.[25] His debut studio album Sun and Moon, released on November 22, 2018, featured eight tracks including the collaborative single "Make Up" with Crush, emphasizing themes of love and introspection through acoustic and R&B influences; the album peaked in the top 30 on South Korean charts.[26][27]From 2019 to 2023, Kim shifted focus toward soundtrack contributions and singles, becoming a sought-after voice for K-dramas while occasionally releasing standalone work under Antenna. Notable OSTs included "Scent" for Search: WWW (2019), "Breathe" for It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020), and multiple 2021 releases such as "Love Me Like That" for Nevertheless—which went viral with over 170 million Spotify streams and topped charts due to its emotional resonance with the series' themes—"I Just Want to Stay with You" for Our Beloved Summer, and the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial theme song "Closer" in collaboration with Jukjae and Kwon Jin Ah.[28] In 2022, he provided "With You" for Twenty-Five Twenty-One, further solidifying his reputation for crafting poignant, drama-synced ballads. Collaborations during this period included "Think About' Chu" with Loco (2018) and "Like a Fool" with NIve (2020), often featuring his production touch.[29] Kim also participated in Antenna's annual Christmas projects, such as the 2020 single "We in Winter." By early 2023, amid growing international recognition, Antenna announced the end of his exclusive contract, effective March 2024, after nearly a decade of partnership that shaped his indie-R&B sound.[4]
Label transition and recent projects (2024–present)
In March 2024, after a decade-long tenure with Antenna Music, Sam Kim's exclusive contract expired, leading to an amicable parting of ways that allowed him to pursue new opportunities as an independent artist.[30] During this transitional period, he continued contributing to soundtracks, including the release of "Shining You" on August 25, 2024, as part of the original television soundtrack for the romantic comedy drama Cinderella at 2 AM, where his soulful ballad underscored key emotional scenes.[31]On September 20, 2024, Kim signed an exclusive contract with Herbigharo, the agency founded by veteran singer Park Hyo-shin, marking a significant shift toward a label known for supporting artist-driven projects and ballad-oriented talents.[5] Under this new affiliation, he expanded his soundtrack work with "Playing Pretend," released on September 24, 2024, for the film Love in the Big City, a poignant track reflecting themes of urban romance and introspection that complemented the movie's narrative.[32]Extending into 2025, Kim's contributions remained focused on dramatic OSTs, notably "Like a Moonlight" on January 11, 2025, for the series Love Scout, a gentle R&B-infused piece that highlighted his signature melodic sensitivity and earned praise for enhancing the show's romantic tension.[33] These releases underscore his ongoing role as a sought-after composer for visual media, blending his production skills with Herbigharo's emphasis on emotional depth, while he marked his ninth debut anniversary in April 2025 with fan engagements via the agency's platforms.[34]
Personal life
Family and relationships
Sam Kim was born on February 19, 1998, in Seattle, Washington, to Korean parents who had immigrated to the United States. His father, Hansoo Kim, owned and operated the Rainier Teriyaki restaurant in Seattle alongside his wife.[9] On January 14, 2023, Hansoo Kim was fatally shot in the chest during an armed robbery at the restaurant when he intervened to protect his wife from one of the assailants; he was 58 years old at the time of his death.[9][35]Kim has a younger sister named Sujin, whom he has described as academically smart, and a younger brother named Jooyoung, whom he has called the "baby of the family" who requires extra affection.[36] He maintains a close bond with his mother and siblings, often referencing the challenges of leaving them behind in the U.S. when he moved to South Korea at age 15 to train as a musician.[37]Details about Kim's romantic relationships remain private, with no confirmed public information available from credible sources.
Health challenges and hiatus
In early 2022, following the release of his soundtrack contribution "Summer Rain" for Our Beloved Summer (Original Television Soundtrack, Pt. 8) in January, Sam Kim entered an extended hiatus primarily from promotional activities and music shows, marking a significant pause after nearly a decade in the industry. This period aligned with his departure from Antenna Music in March 2024, after ten years with the label, during which he had built a reputation for soulful R&B and acoustic releases. He continued to contribute soundtrack songs during this time, including "Say You Love Me" for My Demon in 2023 and "Shining You" for Cinderella at 2 AM in 2024. The hiatus from music shows lasted approximately four years, with Kim making his first such appearance in June 2025 on KBS2TV's The Seasons – Park Bo Gum’s Cantabile.[38][4]The primary catalyst for Kim's break was burnout, stemming from intense self-imposed pressure and ambition in his craft. In a 2025 interview, he reflected, “Because I love music so much, I started to want more from myself and got overly ambitious. That eventually led to burnout.” This emotional exhaustion was compounded by profound personal tragedy: in January 2023, his father, Hansoo Kim, was fatally shot during an armed robbery at the family-owned Rainier Teriyaki restaurant in Seattle. Kim briefly addressed fans in February 2023 via Instagram, stating he was “going through a bit of a hard time” but working diligently amid the grief, without detailing specific health impacts beyond the evident emotional strain. No physical health conditions were publicly disclosed during this time, though earlier discussions in a 2021 podcast highlighted recurring slumps and burnout as ongoing challenges in his career.[38][12][39][40]By mid-2025, Kim expressed renewed optimism, noting that his “relationship with music has improved a bit” and committing to a fresh start. This return emphasized a more balanced approach to his artistry, allowing him to resume performances and projects without the previous intensity that contributed to his withdrawal.[38]
Artistry
Musical style and themes
Sam Kim's musical style is characterized by a blend of R&B, soul, and folk elements, often accentuated by his signature acoustic guitar work and soothing vocals.[16] He incorporates neo-soul influences in tracks that emphasize emotional depth, while experimenting with fusions of jazz, rock, country, and gospel to create versatile soundscapes.[16] Over time, Kim has expanded into dance and hip-hop territories, as seen in his 2022 releases like "Smile," produced with Dutch DJ R3HAB, marking his first foray into upbeat dance music.[41] His production approach is spontaneous and collaborative, drawing from personal experiences and partnerships with artists such as Crush and Zico, which allow him to shift seamlessly between rhythmic, guitar-driven ballads and more experimental pieces.[15]Thematically, Kim's lyrics frequently explore love, relationships, and vulnerability, reflecting mature and introspective narratives that resonate with listeners navigating emotional turmoil.[41] Songs often delve into the complexities of romance, such as lovers' quarrels in "Someday" or the pain of unrequited affection in "Love Me Like That," an OST for the drama Nevertheless that he wrote during a personal rough patch.[16][41] Broader personal themes include family bonds, as in "Mama Don’t Worry," and feelings of loneliness and insecurity, particularly in "Seattle," which captures his experiences relocating to South Korea.[15] These motifs are enhanced by his OST contributions, like "Breath" for It's Okay to Not Be Okay, where he conveys healing and emotional release through heartfelt delivery, and more recent works such as the 2021 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial theme song "Closer" (with Jukjae and Kwon Jin-ah) and the 2025 OST "Like a Moonlight" for the SBS drama Love Scout, which continue to emphasize relational introspection.[16][1][5]Kim's influences, including Stevie Wonder's soulful balladry and Kendrick Lamar's hip-hop introspection, inform his ability to infuse vulnerability into diverse genres, evolving from folk-R&B roots in his 2018 album Sun and Moon to more genre-bending works in recent projects.[15] This progression underscores his commitment to authentic storytelling, prioritizing emotional connection over rigid stylistic boundaries.[41]
Influences and production approach
Sam Kim's musical influences span a wide array of genres, reflecting his Korean-American background and exposure to both Western and Korean artists. He has cited Stevie Wonder as a significant inspiration, particularly admiring the soulful ballad "Overjoyed" for its emotional depth and melodic structure.[15] Additionally, Kim draws from progressive metal guitarist Plini, whose intricate guitar work influences his own guitar-driven compositions, as seen in tracks like "No Sense."[15] In the hip-hop realm, Kendrick Lamar serves as his primary go-to artist, while the neo-soul and funk revival of Silk Sonic—featuring Anderson .Paak and Bruno Mars—shapes his rhythmic and groovy elements.[41] Within Korean music, he looks to ballad singer Park Hyo Shin for vocal expressiveness and emotional delivery.[41] Early covers of artists like BIGBANG and Sting during his time on K-pop Star 3 further highlight his genre-blending roots in R&B, hip-hop, and pop.[16]Kim's production approach emphasizes spontaneity and collaboration, often beginning with acoustic guitar to capture raw ideas before layering in electronic or orchestral elements. He describes his process as unstructured, stating, "Whatever comes out is what comes out," allowing personal vulnerability to guide the outcome rather than adhering to a rigid formula.[15] For instance, in producing "Smile" (2022), he started with a guitar demo and then partnered with Dutch DJ R3HAB to infuse dance-pop production, transforming it into an upbeat track suitable for global audiences.[41] Similarly, collaborations with producers like Simon Pétren on songs such as "The Juice" (2021) involve detailed breakdowns of musicality, focusing on mix and mastering to enhance his R&B core.[16] His label at the time, Antenna, aided in conceptualizing releases by selecting from his extensive song bank, ensuring thematic cohesion without stifling creativity.[15]In songwriting, Kim prioritizes emotional authenticity, drawing from personal experiences like family dynamics in "Mama Don’t Worry" (2021) or relational introspection in OST contributions such as "Love Me Like That" for Nevertheless.[15] He writes prolifically, often co-authoring tracks—eight on his album Sun and Moon (2018)—and adapts to OST demands by deeply analyzing lyrics to convey narrative emotion.[41][16] This method has led to versatile outputs, from neo-soul ballads to hip-hop-infused singles like "Someday" with Raisa (2021), co-produced with Jukjae to blend R&B with Southeast Asian sensibilities.[16]
Discography
Studio albums
Sam Kim's debut studio album, Sun and Moon, was released on November 22, 2018, by Antenna Music.[27] The full-length project marked his first major release following the 2016 EP I Am Sam, showcasing his evolution as a singer-songwriter with a blend of R&B, pop, and acoustic elements.[27] Produced primarily by Kim himself, the album features collaborations with prominent artists, including Zico on "It's You" and Crush on "Make Up," highlighting his growing network in the Korean music scene.[42] It debuted and peaked in the top 30 on South Korea's Gaon Album Chart, reflecting solid initial commercial reception for an independent release.[27]The album consists of eight tracks, all written and composed by Kim, emphasizing introspective themes of love, longing, and personal growth. The title track "Sun and Moon" opens with a soulful acoustic arrangement, setting a reflective tone.[42] "It's You," serving as the lead single, incorporates hip-hop influences through Zico's verse and has garnered over 10 million streams on platforms like Spotify.[43] Other notable songs include "Make Up," a smooth R&B duet with Crush exploring reconciliation, and "Sunny Days, Summer Nights" (그 여름밤), which evokes nostalgic summer vibes with minimalistic guitar work.[26] Tracks like "The One" and "Would You Believe" demonstrate Kim's vocal range and production versatility, while "If" closes the album on an emotive, piano-driven note.[42]
Sun and Moon received praise for its authentic songwriting and Kim's guitar-centric production, establishing him as a key figure in the indie R&B space.[27] The album's singles, including pre-release "The Juice," contributed to its streaming success, with the project accumulating millions of plays globally by 2025.[27] As of November 2025, it remains Kim's sole studio album, with subsequent releases focusing on EPs, singles, and soundtrack contributions.[44]
Extended plays
Sam Kim's debut extended play, I Am Sam, was released on April 10, 2016, by Antenna Music, marking his entry into the music industry as a Korean-American singer-songwriter and producer.[20] The EP features six tracks, primarily composed, written, and arranged by Kim himself, blending contemporary R&B with folk and soul elements to establish his signature introspective style.[22] Recorded at Antenna Studio in Seoul, it reflects Kim's transition from high school talent show performances to professional recording, emphasizing live-band instrumentation over heavy digital production.The tracklist includes:
The lead single, "No Sense," featuring rapper Crush, served as the promotional title track and exemplifies Kim's ability to fuse smooth vocals with collaborative rap verses, drawing attention for its nostalgic yet youthful vibe.[45] Other standout tracks like "Seattle" showcase longer, atmospheric arrangements inspired by personal experiences, while the collaborative closer "Your Song" highlights Kim's connections within the indie music scene. Critics praised the EP for its warm, organic sound and Kim's multifaceted role in its creation, noting it as a promising debut that avoids overproduced trends in favor of genuine emotional expression. The release peaked at number 11 on the Gaon Album Chart, providing early context for Kim's growing domestic presence.
Singles as lead artist
Sam Kim has released several digital singles as a lead artist, often blending R&B, pop, and soul elements to explore personal emotions and relationships. These tracks frequently served as standalone releases or precursors to his larger projects, highlighting his songwriting and production skills without reliance on soundtrack affiliations.[25][46]His debut single era began in 2018 with promotional releases tied to his albumSun and Moon, including "Sun and Moon Part. 1," a mellow track emphasizing introspection, and "When You Fall" featuring Chai, which incorporates light electronic touches for a collaborative vibe.[25][47] By 2019, he ventured into more upbeat territory with "Where's My Money," a funky, bass-driven song reflecting everyday frustrations.[25]In 2020, "What About?" featuring PENOMECO marked a shift toward hip-hop-infused R&B, delving into relational doubts with raw lyricism. The following year brought two introspective releases: "The Juice" in June, a smooth, groove-oriented track about desire and connection, and "These Walls" in July, a vulnerable piece on emotional barriers.[25][48] No additional original singles as lead artist followed through 2025, with his focus shifting toward collaborations and soundtracks.[44]
Sam Kim has established himself as a prominent contributor to original soundtracks (OSTs) for Korean dramas and films, leveraging his emotive R&B style to underscore themes of love, longing, and introspection. His OST work often features intimate ballads that resonate with audiences, frequently achieving viral success on streaming platforms and social media. Beginning with his debut in 2016, Kim's contributions have spanned over a dozen projects, collaborating with artists like Kwon Jin-ah and appearing in high-profile series produced by major networks such as tvN and JTBC.[28]One of his earliest and most impactful works is "Who Are You" from the fantasy romance Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin), released as Part 6 of the OST in December 2016. The song's melancholic melody and lyrics exploring destiny and reunion captured the drama's ethereal tone, contributing to its status as a cultural phenomenon with millions of streams.In 2017, Kim collaborated with vocalist Kwon Jin-ah on multiple tracks for the web drama The Lovebirds: Year 1, including the lead single "I Do," which blends acoustic guitar and harmonious vocals to evoke newlywed bliss. This EP marked his first extensive OST project, showcasing his versatility in duo performances.[49]Kim's 2019 contribution "Scent" (향기) to Search: WWW (OST Part 4) highlights his growth as a songwriter, with its subtle jazz influences and themes of subtle attraction aligning with the series' modern workplace romance. The track peaked at number 137 on the Gaon Digital Chart, underscoring its commercial appeal.His 2020 release "Breath" (숨) for It's Okay to Not Be Okay (OST Part 2) became a fan favorite, its gentle piano-driven arrangement complementing the drama's exploration of mental health and healing. The song amassed over 4 million YouTube views shortly after release, praised for its therapeutic quality.[50]The 2021 track "Love Me Like That" from Nevertheless (OST Part 6) marked a viral breakthrough, blending indie R&B with vulnerable lyrics about insecurity in relationships. Featured in the JTBC series' hyper-realistic romance narrative, it garnered widespread acclaim and propelled Kim's international recognition.[28]Subsequent works include "Summer Rain" (여름비) for Our Beloved Summer (OST Part 8) in 2022, a nostalgic ballad reflecting on past loves that enhanced the reunion rom-com's wistful vibe; "For You" and "Confession" (고백) for Cleaning Up and Cheer Up respectively, both from 2022, emphasizing themes of support and vulnerability; and "Say You Love Me" (그대라는 봄) for My Demon (OST Part 5) in 2023, a tender duet-style piece for the fantasy romance.[51][52]In 2024, Kim expanded into film with "Playing Pretend" for Love in the Big City, a poignant track about hidden emotions in urban life, and "Shining You" for the drama Cinderella at 2AM, an uplifting melody suited to its Cinderella-inspired rom-com plot. These releases continued his streak of chart-topping OSTs, solidifying his role as a go-to artist for emotional depth in Korean media. In 2025, he contributed "Like a Moonlight" to the SBS drama Love Scout OST Part 3, further bridging his soulful style with dramatic narratives.[31][53]
Year
Title
Project
Label/Network
2016
"Who Are You"
Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin) OST Part 6
tvN / CJ E&M
2017
"I Do" (with Kwon Jin-ah)
The Lovebirds: Year 1 OST
Antenna
2017
"Everyday" (with Kwon Jin-ah)
The Lovebirds: Year 1 OST
Antenna
2017
"Cooking (Guitar Version)"
The Lovebirds: Year 1 OST
Antenna
2019
"Scent" (향기)
Search: WWW OST Part 4
tvN / Genie Music
2020
"Breath" (숨)
It's Okay to Not Be Okay OST Part 2
tvN / Stone Music
2021
"Love Me Like That"
Nevertheless OST Part 6
JTBC / Warner Music Korea
2022
"Summer Rain" (여름비)
Our Beloved Summer OST Part 8
SBS / Genie Music
2022
"For You"
Cleaning Up OST Part 1
JTBC / Warner Music Korea
2022
"Confession" (고백)
Cheer Up OST Part 2
SBS / Warner Music Korea
2023
"Say You Love Me" (그대라는 봄)
My Demon OST Part 5
SBS / Warner Music Korea
2024
"Playing Pretend"
Love in the Big City OST
Film / Warner Music Korea
2024
"Shining You"
Cinderella at 2AM OST Part 2
TVING / Mystic Story
2025
"Like a Moonlight"
Love Scout OST Part 3
SBS / Warner Music Korea
Guest features and other songs
Sam Kim has frequently collaborated as a featured artist on tracks by other musicians, contributing his signature soulful vocals and guitar work to a diverse range of genres including R&B, pop, and indie. These guest appearances often highlight his versatility in blending with established Korean artists as well as international talents, expanding his reach beyond his solo discography.[54]Early in his career, Kim featured on "For Now" (여기까지) alongside Kwon Jin Ah, released in July 2016 as part of Antenna Music's Love Antenna Project; the duet explores themes of parting ways amicably, with Kim's harmonies complementing Kwon’s emotive delivery.[55] In 2017, he collaborated twice with rapper Loco under AOMG: first on "Think About' Chu" from the Boys and Girls Music Vol. 1 single in January, a laid-back track reminiscing about youthful romance, and later on "Alright, Summer Time" from Loco's Summer Go Loco EP in August, capturing carefree seasonal vibes through breezy production.[56][57]Kim's features continued to gain prominence in the late 2010s and early 2020s. On So!YoON!'s 2019 album So!YoON!, he provided backing vocals and co-writing credits for "Forever Dumb," an introspective piece about embracing simplicity amid chaos.[58] In 2020, he joined NIve on "Like a Fool" from the latter's debut EP, a melancholic R&B track delving into unrequited love, and participated in the Antenna collective cover "Everything Is OK (with Antenna Ver.)," a uplifting rendition of Peppertones' original featuring multiple labelmates like Lee Jin Ah and Jung Seung Hwan to spread positivity during the pandemic.[59][60]In late 2021, Kim collaborated with Jukjae and Kwon Jin Ah on "Closer," the theme song for the 2021 Seoul UN Peacekeeping Ministerial, a hopeful track promoting unity and peace.[61] Venturing internationally, Kim teamed up with Indonesian singer Raisa on "Someday" in November 2021, a poignant ballad about unspoken feelings co-produced by Kim and arranger Jukjae, marking his first major Southeast Asian crossover.[62] That same year, he featured on Thai artist Mew Suppasit's "Before 4:30 (She Said…)," an English-language single released in December that conveys anxious anticipation in romance, further showcasing Kim's global appeal.[63]More recent collaborations include his 2022 feature on BIBI's "Loveholic's Hangover" from the album Lowlife Princess: Noir, where his smooth ad-libs enhance the song's hazy exploration of addictive love.[64] In November 2022, Kim appeared on Jukjae's "Same Same (너나 나나)" from the album The LIGHTS, a reflective indie-folk track about shared human experiences. He continued with "only u" by Kangziwon in April 2023, a dreamy pop song about singular devotion co-written by the duo.[65] In 2024, Kim featured on TWICE member NAYEON's "Heaven" from her EP NA, a soaring pop-R&B duet emphasizing escapism and joy that peaked at number 8 on the Circle Digital Chart.[66] These features underscore Kim's role in bridging indie and mainstream K-pop scenes.[67]
Performances
Headlining concerts and tours
Sam Kim's headlining performances began in 2019, marking the start of his solo concert career following the release of his debut studio album Sun and Moon. His first major outing was a two-night show in Seoul, titled Sam Kim 1st Concert: Sun and Moon, held on February 16 and 17 at Samsung Hall in Ewha Womans University.[68] The concerts featured a setlist drawn primarily from the album, including tracks like "Sun and Moon" and "Your Song," performed with a full band to an audience of around 1,000 per night.[69]Building on this success, Kim embarked on his first international tour, the Sam Kim 2019 Europe Tour, spanning three cities over four days in late April. The tour kicked off on April 27 at Trabendo in Paris, followed by April 28 at Electric Ballroom in London, and concluded on April 30 at Columbia Theater in Berlin.[70] Organized by Cult of Ya, these intimate venues—each with capacities under 1,500—highlighted Kim's acoustic and R&B style, with fans noting his engaging covers and originals like "Think About' Chu."[71] The tour received positive reception for its raw, personal energy, solidifying Kim's growing international presence.[72]Later that year, Kim extended his Sun and Moon promotions to Asia with a standalone headlining concert in Singapore on July 26 at Zouk, organized by Cross Ratio Entertainment.[73] Billed as his first solo show in the city-state, it drew a sold-out crowd of 1,000, featuring hits such as "Your Song" and interactive fan segments.[74] Kim expressed appreciation for the enthusiastic local support during the performance.[75]Kim's second Seoul-based headliner, 2019 Sam Kim Live: Kunge, took place on November 23 and 24 at Blue Square iMarket Hall, accommodating about 800 attendees each evening.[76] The setlist expanded to include newer material and covers, with Kim handling vocals and guitar alongside a live band, emphasizing his versatile songwriting.[77] These shows, produced by Antenna Music, showcased his evolution as a performer post-album release.[78]Following 2019, Kim's headlining activities shifted toward festival and collaborative appearances amid his label transition from Antenna to independent status in 2024. A planned solo concert, Sam Kim 2024 Live in Jakarta, set for March 9 at Balai Sarbini, was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, marking his intended debut in Indonesia.[79] As of late 2025, no further headlining tours have been announced.[80]
Festival and collaborative appearances
Sam Kim has made several notable appearances at music festivals across Asia and Europe, showcasing his soulful R&B style to diverse audiences. In 2019, he performed at the Rainbow Music & Camping Festival in South Korea, where he delivered hits like "The One" amid a lineup featuring artists such as Zion.T and Jannabi.[81] His set contributed to the event's blend of live music and outdoor camping, emphasizing intimate, nature-inspired performances.[82]In 2022, Kim took the stage at HallyuPopFest London at the OVO Arena Wembley, performing a set including "It's You," "These Walls," "Rainy Days," "Seattle," and "The Juice."[83] The festival highlighted Korean wave artists, with Kim joining acts like Chen, Astro, and Hwasa on Day 1.[84] The following year, at the 2023 Seoul Jazz Festival held at Olympic Park, he captivated attendees with songs such as "Love Me Like That" and "That Summer Night," aligning his smooth vocals with the event's jazz-infused atmosphere.[85]Kim's international reach expanded in 2023 with a performance at the Asian Sound Syndicate festival in Jakarta, Indonesia, where he collaborated live with Indonesian singer Raisa on "Someday" for the first time.[86] This duet marked a highlight of the event, blending their styles before a crowd at Jakarta International Expo alongside performers like iKON and Lee Young Ji.[85] In 2025, he appeared at Beautiful Mint Life in Seoul's Olympic Park, delivering a set on the Mint Breeze Stage that included "Playing Pretend" and other tracks, sharing the bill with artists like Sunwoo Jung-a and Yuju.[87] Later that year, at the SBS Gayo Daejeon Summer: Unipop edition in Goyang, Kim performed "Like a Fool" as part of the Unipop lineup, which focused on ballad and OST artists including Solar and Paul Kim.[88] His participation underscored his prominence in Korean drama soundtracks.[89]More recently, in October 2025, Kim headlined a night at the KOOM Festival in Brooklyn, New York, performing a full set that resonated with the Korean-American community and startup enthusiasts at the event.[85] These festival outings, often featuring acoustic elements and emotional ballads, have solidified Kim's reputation for connecting with global fans through live settings. While primarily solo, his rare collaborative moments, like the one with Raisa, demonstrate his versatility in joint performances.
Television performances
Sam Kim gained widespread recognition through his participation in the third season of SBS's audition program K-pop Star in 2013–2014, where he competed as a 15-year-old Korean-American contestant and ultimately finished as runner-up, earning a contract with Antenna Music. His performances on the show highlighted his guitar skills and soulful R&B style, blending covers of classic tracks with original flair.After signing with Antenna, Kim made his solo debut in 2016 and promoted his single "No Sense" (featuring Crush) on major music programs, including a debut stage on SBS Inkigayo on April 17, 2016, where he delivered an energetic rendition emphasizing the track's smooth R&B production.[90] This appearance marked his entry into promotional cycles for subsequent releases like the EP I Am Sam, often featuring live band setups to showcase his songwriting and vocal range.Throughout his career, Kim has been a frequent guest on KBS's long-running music talk showYu Huiyeol's Sketchbook, known for its intimate stage format. Notable performances include a 2017 collaboration with Primary and Esna on the soulful track "~42," performed on September 20, which blended jazzy elements and harmonious vocals.[91] He returned in 2018 for solo renditions of "No Sense" and "It's You" (featuring Zico), demonstrating his interpretive depth,[92] and again in 2021 for "The Juice," his 2021 single, aired on June 25.[93] These appearances underscored his versatility, from collaborative sessions to stripped-down acoustics.In more recent years, Kim has continued to appear on variety music programs, including Arirang TV's Super K-Pop in 2021, where he discussed his creative process and performed hits like "Love Me Like That" from the NeverthelessOST.[94] In 2025, he guested on KBS2's The Seasons: Park Bo-gum's Cantabile, performing "Star" and dueting "Same Same" with host Park Bo-gum on June 20, sharing insights on his hiatus and artistic evolution.[95] These television outings have consistently amplified his discography's reach, prioritizing emotional delivery over high-energy choreography.
Other ventures
Songwriting credits for others
Sam Kim has contributed songwriting and production to numerous tracks by other artists, often blending indie pop, R&B, and soul influences in his compositions (as of November 2025). His early work includes composing the music for IU's "Ending Scene" from her 2017 album Palette, where he provided the melody while IU handled the lyrics, marking one of his first high-profile credits in the K-pop industry.[96][97] In the same year, he composed instrumental pieces for Lee Jin-ah's contributions to the soundtrack The Lovebirds: Year 1 X Antenna, including "Good Morning (Piano Solo)" and "Good Night (Piano Trio)", showcasing his piano-driven arrangements.[98]By 2019, Kim expanded his collaborations, co-writing and co-composing "Forever Dumb" for So!YoON!'s self-titled album, a track that emphasizes carefree living with his feature on vocals. He also lent lyrics and composition to Punchnello's "23", a reflective single about youth and worries, and "Jungle" from Show Me the Money 8 Final, highlighting his versatility in hip-hop-infused projects. These efforts were followed in 2020 by composing "Like a Fool" for NIve and co-writing "Awake" for Lee Jin-ah's Candy Pianist.[99]Kim's production role grew in 2021, where he co-composed and arranged "Eternal Sunshine" for Gray's album Grayground., a nostalgic track featuring meenoi, and served as writer, arranger, and producer for Mew Suppasit's "Before 4:30 (She Said…)", an English-language collaboration exploring anxious romance. He also co-wrote and co-composed "Overthink" for SHINDRUM's Who Am I. In 2023, Kim co-composed and arranged SHINee's Onew's "Rain On Me" from the album Circle, contributing to its emotional ballad style. Most recently, in 2024, he co-wrote "Heaven" for Nayeon's mini-album NA, a duet that captures rediscovering love.[100][101][102]
Following his debut, Kim frequently appeared on music performance shows, including multiple episodes of Yoo Hee Yeol's Sketchbook on KBS2. In April 2016, shortly after releasing his debut EP, he performed tracks from I Am Sam and discussed his career path.[103] He returned in November 2018 to perform "Make Up" and "It's You," highlighting his soulful guitar work and vocal style.[104]On Immortal Songs 2 (KBS2), Kim delivered notable covers in 2016, collaborating with Yangpa on Yoo Jae-ha's "Because I Love You" in July, which showcased their harmonious vocals, and performing a guitar-driven rendition of Chris Norman's "I'll Meet You at Midnight" in September.[105][106] He also covered "Chupung Pass" in a later episode, emphasizing his interpretive approach to classic songs.[107]In variety programming, Kim joined the music project segment of How Do You Play? (MBC) in 2019, contributing to the group Yoo-plash alongside artists like Crush, Gray, and Zion.T; the ensemble released the track "How Do You Play?" and participated in drum challenges led by host Yoo Jae-suk.[108]Kim expanded into reality formats with Antenna TV: Clumsy Antenna on Kakao TV in 2021, serving as a regular member in this variety series featuring Antenna label artists engaging in comedic challenges and music activities across 24 episodes. He guested on The Game Caterers (tvN) in episodes 3 and 4 of its 2021 season, playing games with fellow musicians like Kwon Jin-ah and Lee Jin-ah.[109]In 2022, Kim starred as a regular member on the international travel reality show Tripmate: Who Are You? (KBS World), joining celebrities from Southeast Asia for adventures in South Korea, including a trip to Jeju Island that fostered cross-cultural friendships.[110]More recently, in June 2025, Kim appeared on The Seasons: Park Bo Gum's Cantabile (KBS2), opening up about his musical hiatus and performing select tracks in episode 15.[38]Kim has no credited film roles, with his media presence centered on television music and variety formats that align with his singer-songwriter identity.
Awards and nominations
Major awards won
Sam Kim has received select accolades early in his career, primarily in the form of editorial and discovery recognitions as well as industry awards. In 2016, following his debut, the mini-album My Name Is Sam was chosen as Naver Music's "This Week's Discovery Album" for the week of April 3, highlighting his emergence as a promising new artist.[111]That same year, he won Best Rookie at the Beautiful Mint Life Awards.[112]In 2018, his sophomore album Sun and Moon earned inclusion in IZM magazine's Editors' Choice selections for the year, praised by critic Park Sujin for its emotional depth and musical maturity.[113]As of November 2025, these remain among his notable wins in specialized music media circles and early career recognitions, underscoring his critical reception within South Korea's indie and R&B scenes.
Notable nominations
Sam Kim has received several notable nominations throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to R&B, soul, and OST work in the Korean music industry. These accolades highlight his early breakthrough as a rookie artist and his later impact on drama soundtracks and album releases.In 2016, shortly after his debut, Kim was nominated for Best New Artist at the Melon Music Awards, competing against prominent newcomers like Blackpink, Bolbbalgan4, and NCT 127, which underscored his rapid rise following his appearance on K-pop Star Season 3.[114] He was also nominated in the Best Folk/Blues (Indie) category at the same awards for his single "No Sense," reflecting the song's emotional depth and acoustic style that resonated with listeners.[115]For his 2021 OST contribution, Kim earned a nomination for Best Original Soundtrack at the 32nd Seoul Music Awards (held in 2023) for "Summer Rain" from the drama Our Beloved Summer, a track that blended soulful vocals with nostalgic themes and charted prominently on music platforms.[116] More recently, at the 34th Seoul Music Awards in 2025, Kim was nominated again for Best Original Soundtrack for "Playing Pretend" from the film Love in the Big City, praising the song's melancholic melody and its role in enhancing the movie's emotional narrative.[117]