Shindong
Shindong (born September 28, 1985) is a South Korean singer, rapper, dancer, television host, radio personality, and music video director, best known as a member of the long-running K-pop boy group Super Junior.[1][2] Shindong, whose real name is Shin Dong-hee, debuted with Super Junior on November 6, 2005, under SM Entertainment, initially as part of the 12-member project group Super Junior 05, which later solidified into the main group without the rotational concept.[2] He serves as one of the group's lead dancers and rappers, contributing to their signature blend of pop, dance, and variety entertainment across numerous albums, world tours, and sub-units like Super Junior-T and Super Junior-Happy. As of 2025, he continues to perform with Super Junior, including their 20th anniversary album Super Junior25 and Super Show 10 world tour.[3][4] Known for his comedic timing, expressive facial expressions, and humorous persona, Shindong has become and remains a staple in South Korean variety programming, including a 2025 appearance on Radio Star.[1][5] Beyond music, Shindong has built a multifaceted career in entertainment. He has hosted popular television shows, including co-hosting gaming variety program Legend Club: Heechul's Shindong PC Room with bandmate Heechul, and appeared on shows like My Little Old Boy and Battle of the Musicians.[6] As a radio DJ, he has presented programs on various radio stations, including MBC's Shim Shim Ta Pa (2008–2014). In recent years, Shindong has expanded into music video direction, helming projects for Super Junior such as "One More Chance," as well as works for Red Velvet, EXO, NCT, and others under the label.[7] He enlisted for mandatory military service on March 24, 2015, serving as an active-duty soldier, and was discharged on December 23, 2016.[8][9][10]Early life
Birth and family
Shindong was born Shin Dong-hee on September 28, 1985, in Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea.[11] The family relocated to the Ilsan area in Gyeonggi Province during his early childhood. His parents divorced when he was young, after which Shindong lived with his father while his younger sister, Ahn Da Young (born 1998), resided with their mother.[12] From a young age, Shindong displayed a strong interest in dance and performance, activities that would shape his future career path. In 2002, at the age of 16, he won the grand prize at the Goyangsi Youth Dance contest, highlighting his natural talent and passion for the art form. Upon joining SM Entertainment, Shindong adopted his stage name, which literally translates to "prodigy" and was derived from his given name to avoid similarity with bandmate Donghae while signifying his promising abilities in entertainment.[13]Education and training
Shindong attended Sewon High School in Goyang-si, where he developed an early interest in broadcasting and entertainment, aspiring to enter the industry as a performer or comedian.[14] In 2005, Shindong won first place in the Best Comedian category at the SM Best Youth Contest, leading to his recruitment by SM Entertainment as a trainee. He trained intensively in dance, rap, and stage performance that year as part of the company's rigorous idol preparation program. Initially recruited with the goal of becoming a comedian, he shifted toward multifaceted entertainment training that emphasized versatility in vocals, choreography, and public presentation.[15][16] After his debut, Shindong pursued higher education in the arts, earning an associate's degree in Practical Dance from Baekje Arts University, a bachelor's and master's degree in Broadcasting and Entertainment from Kyung Hee University, and a Ph.D. in Cultural Management from Inha University to further build his performance expertise.[14]Career
Pre-debut activities
Shindong demonstrated an early passion for dancing, participating in local competitions that highlighted his talent. In 2002, he won the grand prize at the Goyangsi Youth Dance contest, marking his first notable public appearance as a backup dancer on the associated TV show. He achieved similar success the following year by securing first place again in the same competition.[17][11] In 2005, Shindong auditioned for SM Entertainment's 9th SM Best Youth Selection, where he unexpectedly won first place in the Best Comedian category despite showcasing his dance skills. This victory led to his recruitment by the company, initially intended for comedic training under founder Lee Soo Man, though his dancing prowess was quickly noted.[14][16] As a new trainee, Shindong underwent intensive lessons to refine his performance abilities amid SM's rigorous evaluation system. He took part in internal trainee showcases and assessments during 2005, competing fiercely against dozens of other aspiring artists for limited positions in the agency's planned rotational boy group project. The high-stakes environment tested his adaptability, blending his comedic flair with dance and vocal training to stand out.Super Junior debut and group work
Shindong debuted as a member of the South Korean boy band Super Junior on November 6, 2005, with the group's first album, Super Junior 05 (TWINS), where he served as the lead rapper and lead dancer.[18][19] The project group, initially known as Super Junior 05, performed their lead single "Twins (Knock Out)" on SBS's Popular Songs, marking the start of Shindong's contributions to the band's hip-hop and dance elements alongside members like Eunhyuk.[20] Throughout his time with Super Junior, Shindong participated in several sub-units that highlighted the group's versatility in genres like trot and contemporary pop. In 2007, he joined Super Junior-T for their debut single "Rokkugo!!!" (로꾸거!!!), a trot-infused track released on February 23 that sold over 45,000 copies by year's end and topped Korean charts. Later, as part of Super Junior-Happy in 2011, Shindong contributed to trot-style promotions, including performances that blended traditional Korean music with the group's energetic choreography.[21] More recently, in 2024, Shindong debuted with Super Junior-L.S.S.—comprising Leeteuk, himself, and Siwon—with their Japanese mini-album Let's Standing Show on January 17, followed by the Korean single "Suit Up" on January 22, a funky pop track emphasizing retro dance vibes.[22] The sub-unit continued into 2025 with the Japanese single "Pon Pon," released on April 18, which featured upbeat new jack swing production and debuted at number 14 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, selling 4,018 copies in its first week.[23] Shindong has been a consistent performer in Super Junior's Super Show concert series, which began in 2007 and has become a cornerstone of the group's live legacy. The tours showcase elaborate stage productions, medleys of hits, and fan interactions, with Shindong often leading rap sections and dance breaks. In 2025, he participated in Super Show 10, the band's 20th anniversary tour that kicked off with three nights at Seoul's KSPO Dome from August 22 to 24, drawing 30,000 attendees and contributing to the series' cumulative audience surpassing 2 million worldwide.[24] The tour extended to international stops, including a sold-out show at Manila's SM Mall of Asia Arena on October 4, where Shindong joined the active members in celebrating two decades of music with high-energy performances of classics like "Sorry, Sorry."[25] In recent group activities, Shindong featured prominently in Super Junior's performances at SMTOWN Live 2025: The Culture, The Future in Seoul on January 11 and 12, where the full active lineup covered Shinhwa's "I Pray 4 U" as a nostalgic tribute, highlighting his vocal harmonies and stage presence.[26] The band's 20th anniversary album, Super Junior25—their 12th studio release on July 9—incorporated vocals from active members including Shindong across tracks like "Delight" and "Finale," achieving global chart success and underscoring the group's enduring teamwork.[27]Solo music releases
Shindong's solo music career began with his contribution to the original soundtrack for the 2008 KBS drama Single Dad in Love, where he released the track "Don't Cry" (울지마) featuring Bongi.[11] This marked his initial foray into individual music releases outside of Super Junior activities.[28] In 2011, Shindong collaborated with fellow Super Junior member Leeteuk on the digital single "Please" (해 주세요), a lighthearted track that highlighted their vocal and rap synergy.[11] He continued with group-adjacent features in 2017 and 2019, joining the trot project UV for "Marry Man" and "Cheer Man," respectively, blending his rap style with traditional Korean music elements. These releases showcased Shindong's versatility in collaborative formats while maintaining ties to his broader entertainment persona.[11] Shindong expanded his featured appearances in recent years, including a rap contribution to Jung Seul's debut single "Tabom" (타봄), released on January 14, 2025, following her appearance on Miss Trot 3.[29] This collaboration, announced in late 2024, paired Shindong's energetic delivery with Jung Seul's trot vocals, generating buzz for its fusion of genres.[30] Additionally, Shindong has sporadically contributed to drama OSTs, reinforcing his role in narrative-driven music projects. As part of Super Junior's 20th anniversary celebrations in 2025, Shindong teased an upcoming solo album during a July appearance on the variety show Problem Child in House, emphasizing his intent to prioritize group commitments alongside personal musical endeavors.[31] This anticipated release signals a potential resurgence in his independent output, building on his established track record of selective, impactful features.[5]Hosting and variety shows
Shindong debuted his hosting career in the music industry shortly after Super Junior's formation, serving as an MC on Mnet's M! Countdown from November 2005 alongside group members Leeteuk and Kangin, a role he maintained for three years until 2008. His engaging on-stage presence and quick humor helped establish him as a reliable emcee for music broadcasts. Transitioning to variety programming, Shindong gained prominence as a regular panelist and co-host on SBS's Strong Heart from 2009, where his comedic timing and relatable anecdotes contributed to the show's success as a talk-variety format. For his contributions, he received the Best Newcomer in Variety Show award at the 2010 SBS Entertainment Awards.[32] Shindong continued to build his reputation in variety entertainment through co-hosting roles, including joining Kang Ho-dong as a supporting MC for the pilot episode of MBC's Stargazing in 2014, a program focused on celebrity interactions and challenges. In 2018, he took on the main MC position for JTBC's digital channel quiz show Successful Fan LIVE, which tested fans' knowledge of idols and offered winners opportunities to connect with their favorites, airing Tuesdays and Thursdays on Studio Lululala and Oksusu. The following year, in 2019, he co-hosted the web variety show Legend Club: Heechul's Shindong PC Room with fellow Super Junior member Heechul, blending gaming challenges with celebrity banter on a digital platform.[33][34][6] Shindong has made frequent guest appearances on long-running variety programs, including KBS's The Return of Superman since 2015, where he participated in family-oriented segments, particularly following the birth of his daughter in 2023. He has also been a recurring guest on JTBC's Knowing Bros and MBC's Radio Star, often sharing humorous stories from his career that highlight his entertaining persona. In September 2025, during an episode of Radio Star, Shindong opened up about challenges in the industry, including being unexpectedly replaced on shows like tvN's The Great Escape without notice, underscoring his ongoing involvement in variety despite setbacks.[35] In recent years, Shindong has hosted events tied to Super Junior, including fan meetings and SM Town specials in 2024 and 2025, leveraging his experience to engage audiences with lighthearted commentary and group interactions. His versatility in unscripted formats has solidified his status as a beloved figure in Korean variety television.Acting and directing
Shindong made his acting debut in the 2007 comedy film Attack on the Pin-Up Boys, where he portrayed a supporting role as a member of the high school dance club amid a series of mysterious pranks targeting popular students.[36][37] He followed this with minor television appearances, including a supporting role in the 2008 family drama Single Dad in Love and a cameo in the 2010 medical series Dr. Champ, often leveraging his natural on-screen energy honed from hosting to bring charisma to these narrative parts.[11] Shindong transitioned into directing as a creative extension of his performance background, debuting in music video direction with Super Junior's "One More Chance" in 2017.) His portfolio expanded to include high-profile projects for fellow SM Entertainment artists, such as the comeback performance for EXO's "Obsession" (2019) and Red Velvet's "Rebirth" (2017), where he emphasized dynamic visuals and group synchronization to enhance the tracks' impact.[38] This shift allowed him to explore storytelling through the lens, directing over a dozen videos by the early 2020s that blended choreography with thematic elements like nostalgia and energy.[39] In recent years, Shindong returned to acting with guest roles tied to Super Junior promotions, including a cameo alongside bandmate Leeteuk in the 2024 romantic comedy series DNA Lover, where they performed a lighthearted dance sequence as cafe owners.[40]Personal life
Health challenges and weight loss
Throughout his career, Shindong has openly discussed his struggles with weight fluctuations, which began early in his time with Super Junior and were exacerbated by public body-shaming from netizens and media. Debuting in 2005 at around 90 kg, he faced persistent criticism for his physique, with malicious comments peaking during group promotions, such as in 2019 when online users targeted his appearance at events, labeling him as unfit for idol standards.[41] These experiences contributed to emotional strain, as Shindong later revealed in interviews that the constant scrutiny affected his self-esteem amid the high-pressure K-pop industry.[42] Shindong's weight loss efforts started notably in 2009, when he shed approximately 20 kg through diet and exercise, motivated by a comment from bandmate Leeteuk urging him to prioritize health.[43] Further transformations occurred during his mandatory military service from 2015 to 2016, where he lost 17 kg during initial training to meet fitness requirements, though he regained some weight later in service due to adjusted routines.[44] A major milestone came in 2019-2020, prompted by a hyperlipidemia diagnosis; partnering with the Juvis Diet program, he reduced from 116 kg to 79 kg—a loss of 37 kg—primarily through strict dieting emphasizing brown rice, anchovies, and lettuce wraps over intense exercise.[45][46] In 2025, he documented a renewed "glow up" on social media and variety shows like Problem Child in House, sharing progress toward a healthier physique after experimenting with weight-loss injections like Wegovy, though he noted challenges with yo-yo effects and relapse from stress eating.[47][48] As an advocate, Shindong has used platforms like variety shows and interviews to promote body positivity and mental health awareness, emphasizing sustainable habits over extreme measures and encouraging fans to focus on well-being rather than appearance. He has shared practical tips, such as balanced meal planning, to combat dieting pitfalls, drawing from his own relapses to highlight the importance of mental resilience.[49] These efforts have positively influenced his public image, transforming perceptions from a target of ridicule to a relatable figure of perseverance, which has enhanced his hosting roles on programs like Knowing Bros by showcasing greater confidence and relatability.[50]Military service
Shindong enlisted for mandatory military service on March 24, 2015, as an active-duty soldier after postponing his enlistment due to health issues, including a herniated disc and back pain.[51][52] These conditions led to his assignment to the 55th division's military band, where he served in a role involving performances rather than frontline duties.[53][54] During his 21-month service, Shindong participated in cultural activities as part of the military band, including concerts and festivals such as the Jinhae Military Band & Honor Guard Festival and the Ground Forces Festival, performing alongside fellow soldiers and other entertainers to boost morale.[55][56] He underwent basic training at the 28th Infantry Division in Yeoncheon before transitioning to his band duties.[57] Shindong was honorably discharged on December 23, 2016, marking the completion of his service.[58][59] In reflections shared after his return, he noted that the experience fostered greater personal discipline and highlighted the emotional support from fans, which sustained him through the period of absence from group activities.[60]Car accident
On April 19, 2007, Shindong and fellow Super Junior members Leeteuk, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun, along with their manager, were involved in a serious car accident while returning to their accommodations after recording the KBS Cool FM radio show Super Junior Kiss the Radio. The group's van struck a guardrail on the Olympic Highway near Dongjak Bridge in Seoul shortly after midnight, tipping over and sliding approximately 30 meters due to reckless driving, as determined by police investigation.[61] Shindong sustained minor injuries, including cuts and bruises to his face and legs, allowing him to resume activities within a week. In contrast, Leeteuk suffered a head injury requiring stitches and temporary unconsciousness, while Kyuhyun endured severe trauma with broken ribs causing a pneumothorax and internal bleeding, necessitating extended hospitalization and intensive care for all affected members. The incident prompted immediate medical attention and a temporary hiatus for Super Junior to facilitate recovery.[61] Shindong later described the aftermath as frightening and deeply depressing, expressing significant concern for his bandmates' well-being and the uncertainty surrounding the group's future amid the injuries. No formal legal proceedings against the group were reported beyond the police's attribution of fault to reckless driving.[62] The accident ultimately fostered stronger interpersonal bonds within Super Junior, as members supported one another through the prolonged recovery period, with Shindong noting the ordeal brought them closer despite ongoing physical discomforts like joint pain during rainy weather.[62]Marriage and family
Shindong has a younger half-sister named Ahn Da Young, who is 14 years his junior; he revealed her existence in 2011 during an appearance on the variety show Strong Heart, noting that he had previously kept his family private to protect their privacy.[63] In terms of romantic relationships, Shindong has shared details of several past partnerships but has never married. In 2010, he publicly proposed to his girlfriend of three years on Strong Heart, expressing his desire to wed her, though the relationship ended in 2013.[64][65] In 2015, he dated model Kang Shi Nae for four months before they mutually decided to part ways.[66][67] Shindong confirmed in December 2022 that he was dating a non-celebrity woman younger than him, a relationship that lasted approximately three and a half years; his agency, Label SJ, stated at the time that there were no immediate plans for marriage.[68][69] The couple broke up amicably in April 2024, with Shindong later describing the split as supportive, allowing each to pursue their paths independently.[70][71] In September 2025, Shindong joked about being "divorced" on a YouTube show, referencing his past proposal, but clarified he has never been married.[65] As of 2025, Shindong remains unmarried and has no children. He has emphasized maintaining privacy in his personal life amid his demanding career, occasionally referencing relationships in variety show segments but avoiding detailed public disclosures about family matters.[72][73]Artistic works
Discography
Shindong's musical output centers on collaborative singles, soundtrack contributions, and his role in Super Junior's group discography, where he often delivers rap verses and backing vocals. Although he has not released a full-length solo album, his featured appearances highlight a playful, comedic style influenced by trot and pop genres. These works frequently tie into variety show themes or dramatic narratives, showcasing his versatility beyond group activities.Solo releases and collaborations
Shindong debuted musically outside Super Junior with the trot single "Please" alongside bandmate Leeteuk in 2011, created as the theme for the MBC variety program Enjoy Today. The track features upbeat rhythms and humorous lyrics pleading for understanding in relationships.[74] In 2008, he contributed to the OST for the mini-series Single Dad in Love with "Don't Cry" (feat. Bongi), a heartfelt ballad reflecting the drama's themes of family and loss; Shindong provided rap sections to add emotional depth.[28] He later formed the comedic unit SUV with musical duo UV, releasing "Marry Man" in 2017 as part of SM Station Season 2. This retro-inspired track satirizes marriage pressures with funky synths and exaggerated choreography, peaking at number 12 on the Gaon Digital Chart. A remix version followed, emphasizing its dance-pop elements.[75] SUV reunited for "Cheer Man" in 2019 under SM Station 3, an energetic cheerleading anthem promoting positivity and victory; the song incorporates hip-hop beats and group chants, with Shindong's rap driving the motivational narrative. It garnered attention for its gym-themed music video and lighthearted vibe.[76] More recently, in January 2025, Shindong featured on rookie singer Jung Seul's debut single "Tabom," a cha-cha-infused pop track about fleeting romance and dance; he contributed rap and also directed the music video, blending nostalgic elements with modern production. The collaboration marked Jung Seul's entry into K-pop and highlighted Shindong's ongoing mentorship role.[77]| Year | Artist/Unit | Title | Album/Project | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Shindong feat. Bongi | Don't Cry | Single Dad in Love OST | Rap feature; emotional ballad for drama soundtrack. |
| 2011 | Leeteuk & Shindong | Please | Enjoy Today theme single | Trot-pop hybrid; humorous plea lyrics. |
| 2017 | SUV (Shindong & UV) | Marry Man | SM Station Season 2 | Satirical dance track; includes remix and instrumental versions. |
| 2019 | SUV (Shindong & UV) | Cheer Man | SM Station Season 3 | Motivational hip-hop; cheer-themed concept. |
| 2025 | Jung Seul feat. Shindong | Tabom | Debut digital single | Cha-cha pop; Shindong on rap and MV direction. |
Group contributions
As a core member of Super Junior since their 2005 debut, Shindong has contributed rap verses, ad-libs, and vocal harmonies to over a dozen studio albums and numerous singles. His inputs often add humorous or narrative flair to tracks like "Sorry, Sorry" (2009) and "Mr. Simple" (2011), where his rhythmic delivery complements the group's synchronized style. In live settings, he performs solo segments in songs such as "Champion" from Super Show 3 (2011).[78] For the group's 20th anniversary, Shindong participated in Super Junior25 (2025), their 12th studio album, rapping on title track "Express Mode" and other cuts that blend retro and futuristic sounds to celebrate their legacy. The album debuted at number 1 on the Gaon Album Chart, underscoring his enduring role in the ensemble.Production notes
Shindong has expanded into music video direction through his company Walala Productions, influencing visual storytelling for audio releases. Notable examples include helming Super Junior's "One More Chance" (2017), a romantic ballad MV emphasizing emotional intimacy, and EXO's "Obsession" (2019), which features dynamic choreography synced to the song's intense beats. He also directed the music video for "Tabom" (Jung Seul feat. Shindong, 2025). These efforts tie directly to enhancing the promotional impact of the tracks.[38][79]Filmography
Shindong debuted in film with a supporting role in the 2007 comedy Attack on the Pin-Up Boys, portraying a member of the fictional boy band Ultra Junior alongside his Super Junior bandmates. He provided voice acting for the Korean dub of the animated film Alvin and the Chipmunks that same year, lending his voice to the character Theodore. In 2010, Shindong voiced Humphrey, the omega wolf, in the Korean version of the animated adventure Alpha and Omega. He also appeared as himself in several SM Entertainment concert films, including Super Show 3 3D (2011) and I AM. SMTOWN Live World Tour in Madison Square Garden (2012), capturing live performances of Super Junior.| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Attack on the Pin-Up Boys | Himself (Ultra Junior member) | Supporting role; comedy film directed by Lee Kwon. |
| 2007 | Alvin and the Chipmunks | Theodore | Voice role; Korean dub. |
| 2010 | Alpha and Omega | Humphrey | Voice role; Korean dub. |
| 2011 | Super Show 3 3D | Himself | Concert film. |
| 2012 | I AM. SMTOWN Live World Tour in Madison Square Garden | Himself | Concert film. |
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Single Dad in Love | Oh Chil-goo | Supporting role; 16 episodes. |
| 2010 | All My Love | Geum-ji's blind date | Guest role; episodes 43–44. |
| 2023 | Super Junior: The Last Man Standing | Himself | Main role; 2 episodes. |
| 2024 | DNA Lover | Karaoke box employee | Cameo; episode 5. |