EJ

EJ was born Byun Eui-joo (변의주) on September 7, 2002, in Goyang, South Korea. He is the only Korean member of &TEAM, giving him a unique role within the multinational group. Source: KProfiles

Before debuting, EJ trained under BigHit Entertainment and competed on the survival show I-LAND, the same program that created ENHYPEN. Although he was eliminated during Episode 7, many viewers remembered him for his calm personality and leadership qualities. Source: kpopping

During childhood, EJ lived on Jeju Island for approximately one year. The experience gave him fond memories before eventually returning to the mainland. Source: KProfiles

Long before becoming an idol, EJ was an active fencer during middle school. His athletic background helped build the discipline, focus, and composure that fans now associate with his leadership style. Source: KProfiles

Fans affectionately nicknamed EJ "Ponyo" because they thought he resembled the lovable Studio Ghibli character. The nickname has remained one of his most recognizable fan-given titles. Source: KProfiles

EJ made a surprise appearance in ENHYPEN's "Drunk-Dazed" music video alongside fellow &TEAM member K, with both portraying mysterious werewolves. Fans enjoyed spotting the future &TEAM members before their official debut. Source: kpopsingers.com

Among Korean celebrities, EJ has named legendary entertainer Yoo Jae-suk as his biggest role model. He admires Yoo's professionalism, kindness, and ability to make others feel comfortable. Source: KProfiles

Every morning, EJ follows a simple routine of boiling water, allowing it to cool before drinking it. It's one of the healthy habits fans often associate with his thoughtful and disciplined lifestyle. Source: &TEAM (kpopsingers.com)

Because EJ sits near the middle of the group's age range, he naturally helps bridge communication between the older and younger members. His calm personality has made him an important source of stability within &TEAM. Source: Teen Vogue

EJ and fellow member K regularly help each other improve their language skills. EJ studies Japanese with K's help, while EJ teaches K Korean, strengthening both their friendship and the group's communication. Source: Weverse Magazine

Speaking with Billboard Korea, EJ explained that he hopes people focus on &TEAM's music rather than the members' different languages, saying he is proud to help expand HYBE's musical and cultural reach through the group. Source: Billboard Korea (via Wikipedia)

In 2025, EJ was announced as one of the new Inkigayo MCs, joining TWS's Shinyu and IVE's Leeseo. The appointment recognized his growing popularity and confidence as a television host. Source: Soompi

Despite being the leader, EJ is known for leading quietly rather than seeking the spotlight. Fellow members frequently describe him as someone who listens carefully before offering advice or encouragement. Source: Member interviews, Teen Vogue

Fans often praise EJ for creating a welcoming atmosphere within &TEAM. His ability to connect members from different countries has become one of the group's defining strengths. Source: Weverse Magazine

EJ's experience on I-LAND taught him resilience after facing elimination. Rather than giving up on his dream, he continued training until eventually debuting as the leader of &TEAM, making his journey especially inspiring to fans. Source: kpopping

As the group's only Korean member, EJ frequently serves as a cultural bridge between South Korea and Japan. His bilingual growth and willingness to learn have become an important part of &TEAM's identity as a truly global group. Source: Weverse Magazine, Billboard Korea

Fans often associate EJ with reliability, humility, and kindness. Whether caring for younger members, maintaining healthy daily routines, or quietly supporting the team behind the scenes, he consistently earns praise as one of the most dependable leaders among newer HYBE artists. Source: Teen Vogue, KProfiles

From competing on I-LAND to leading &TEAM onto international stages, EJ's career has been defined by perseverance, steady growth, and genuine leadership. His journey continues to inspire fans who admire his quiet confidence and unwavering dedication to his members. Source: KProfiles, kpopping, Soompi