As Ateez fans (ATINYs), we talk about K-pop terms like our favorite member and the youngest member. But the most important job in Ateez is Leader, and that is Kim Hongjoong.
Every group has a leader, but Hongjoong is their Captain. He is much more than the leader. He is the one who makes the music, keeps the team feeling good, and protects the other seven fun members we love.
Watching his leadership develop since their start has been one of the best things about being an ATINY. So, let’s go beyond just calling him ‘the leader’ and explore the true meaning of that title for Ateez and for us, ATINY.
Who Is The Leader Of Ateez?
Kim Hongjoong is the leader of Ateez, known for his skills beyond just music and being exceptionally skilled.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kim Hong-joong (김홍중) |
| Stage Name | Hongjoong (홍중) |
| Position | Leader / Captain, Lead Rapper, Composer, Vocalist, Center |
| Birth Date | November 7, 1998 |
| Age | 27 (as of November 2025) |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Languages | Korean (Native), English (Proficient/Self-Taught) |
| MBTI | INFP |
| Nickname(s) | Hong-Leader, Mini-Hong, Captain, Korean Big Minion |
| Official Instagram | @no1likeme8_8 |
If you ask any ATINY, they’ll tell you that Hongjoong isn’t just a leader – he’s the unmatched Captain of this pirate ship. He is the group’s tireless anchor, managing the members, writing and producing nearly half of their discography (yes, over 40 songs!), and generally making sure Ateez stays true to their artistic vision.
On the flip side, he’s also our incredible Face and Translator during global promotions. This is the man who taught himself English by binge-watching Modern Family and Minions, and you can always count on him to eloquently represent the group and make us all feel seen during international interviews.
How Was The Leader Of ATEEZ Chosen?
This part of the story shows exactly why Hongjoong is their Captain. In many K-pop groups, the leader is just the oldest member or the person the company chooses. But Hongjoong was different: his own members voted for him!
This shows how much the other seven trust and respect him. He became the leader not because he was the oldest, but because he proved he was capable. He has a clear plan, works hard, and cares deeply about the team’s music and happiness.
Even before they officially started, Hongjoong was already acting like the leader. He was writing music, encouraging the team, and solving their problems.
When they finally made the official decision, the members just confirmed what they already knew: Hongjoong was the right person. This shows how strong their bond is, proving he is the super glue that keeps the crazy, wonderful group of Ateez together!
Ateez Leader: The Skills That Make Him The Leader
To be the Captain of a famous pirate crew, you need more than just being responsible; you need amazing talent. Hongjoong’s leadership works because he has great skills.
First, he is a master in the music studio. He has written and made music for a massive number of Ateez songs, including famous hits like “Answer” and “Aurora.” Knowing that the leader creates the group’s sound makes their music feel so real!
Second, while Yunho is the main dancer, Hongjoong is just as strong on stage. The way he performs is special. Whether he is delivering powerful rap parts or singing surprising high notes, everyone watches him.
He can switch instantly from being a nice, cute person off-stage to being a fierce, cool pirate as soon as the music starts. Fans love this – he is both relatable and inspiring. Our Captain leads not just by talking, but with his amazing talent and incredible energy.
The ATINY Relationship With The Captain
If you ever wonder why fans (ATINY) feel so strongly about our Captain, it’s because he always gives back to us. Hongjoong has a very special relationship with the fans.
He writes famous, handwritten Captain’s Letters. These deep, honest notes make you feel like he is sitting right next to you, talking about life, music, and how thankful he is for you. This personal effort is very rare.
He also helps make our Fanchants (the cheers we shout during their songs), making sure we are part of the show too. This amazing dedication and how open he is with his feelings are why he makes so many fans change their favorite member (Bias Wrecker).
Even if you first liked another member’s dancing or singing, you stay because Hongjoong’s honesty and talent pull you in. He is not just our leader; he is our emotional guide, and that connection is unbreakable.
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Conclusion: Hongjoong Is The Captain Of ATEEZ
When we talk about the Leader of Ateez, it’s about much more than just a job. We are talking about Kim Hongjoong. He taught himself English, he writes most of their songs, his members voted for him, and he writes letters that help ATINY feel strong.
He chooses the creative direction for the group and truly lives the brave, adventurous spirit of their pirate theme. He doesn’t just manage the group; he encourages all of us to follow our dreams strongly. He is the heart, the support, and the strong voice of ATEEZ.
Now, it’s your turn, ATINY! What song or moment shows Hongjoong at his best? Let me know!
FAQs
The leader is Kim Hongjoong. He’s the Captain, and he writes most of their songs and keeps the team happy.
There are eight members. Hongjoong is the Leader. Yunho and San are the best Dancers. Jongho, Seonghwa, and San sing. Mingi, Hongjoong, and Wooyoung rap. Jongho is the youngest.
The oldest member is Park Seonghwa. Hongjoong leads the group, but Seonghwa is like the group’s “mom.” He is known for being very good-looking and a great performer.
The members chose Hongjoong themselves by voting! He wasn’t just picked for being the oldest. They chose him because he was a natural leader and already wrote music.
Choi San is often called the ‘ace’ because he can do it all. He has huge energy when he performs, sings well, and dances well. He always steals the show.
