Profile
Career
Early Life and Family
Felix, born Lee Yongbok on September 15, 2000, spent his formative years in Sydney, Australia [1][2]. As a child, Felix immersed himself in various activities, most notably dedicating 12 years to taekwondo training in Australia [3]. This early commitment to martial arts likely contributed to his discipline and physical prowess, traits that would later serve him well in his career as a K-pop idol.
Felix's upbringing in Australia significantly shaped his identity and skills. He grew up speaking English as his first language, which would later become a valuable asset in his career with Stray Kids [3]. The multicultural environment of Sydney undoubtedly influenced his worldview and ability to adapt to different cultures.
Education
Felix's educational journey began in Sydney, Australia, where he attended a Catholic school [4]. This educational setting likely provided him with a structured environment that balanced academic pursuits with religious teachings. The discipline instilled in Catholic schools may have contributed to Felix's work ethic, which would prove crucial in his future career.
During his school years, Felix continued to pursue his passion for taekwondo, eventually achieving a 3rd-degree black belt [4]. This achievement demonstrates his ability to balance academic responsibilities with extracurricular activities, a skill that would serve him well in the demanding world of K-pop.
Felix's education in Australia also equipped him with fluency in English, a skill that would later set him apart in the Korean entertainment industry [2]. He developed proficiency in multiple languages, including Korean, Japanese, and basic French, showcasing his linguistic aptitude and multicultural exposure [2].
Pre-debut Training
Taekwondo Training (12 years in Australia)
Felix's journey to K-pop stardom began long before he set foot in South Korea. For 12 years, he dedicated himself to the rigorous discipline of taekwondo in Australia [1]. This extensive martial arts training played a crucial role in shaping Felix's physical abilities and mental discipline. Taekwondo, known for its emphasis on kicks and agility, likely contributed to Felix's impressive dance skills and stage presence. The discipline and perseverance required in martial arts undoubtedly prepared him for the demanding world of K-pop training.
Scouting by JYP Entertainment
Felix's life took a dramatic turn when JYP Entertainment, one of South Korea's leading entertainment companies, scouted him. The exact details of his scouting process remain unclear from the available sources. However, we know that Felix was first spotted with other JYP trainees approximately six months before the "Stray Kids" survival show [2]. This timeline suggests that JYP Entertainment recognized Felix's potential relatively late compared to some of his future bandmates, making his rapid progress even more remarkable.
Moving to South Korea
After being scouted, Felix made the life-changing decision to move from Australia to South Korea to pursue his dream of becoming a K-pop star [1]. This transition marked a significant shift in Felix's life, requiring him to adapt to a new culture, language, and rigorous training regimen. Felix's training period at JYP Entertainment lasted approximately one year [3], which is notably shorter than many K-pop trainees' experiences. During this time, he had to quickly learn Korean while also honing his singing, rapping, and dancing skills [4].
The intensity of Felix's training period becomes evident when we consider that he was first spotted as a trainee only about six months before the "Stray Kids" survival show [2]. This means he had to rapidly catch up to trainees who had been preparing for years. Felix's ability to adapt quickly and excel under pressure during this period foreshadowed his future success as a member of Stray Kids.
Throughout his pre-debut training, Felix's fluency in English remained a significant asset [5]. JYP Entertainment likely recognized the value of having a native English speaker in their upcoming group, especially for international promotions. Felix's pre-debut period, though brief, was intensely transformative, setting the stage for his debut with Stray Kids and his subsequent rise in the K-pop industry.
Joining Stray Kids
Participation in "Stray Kids" Survival Show
Felix's journey to becoming a member of Stray Kids began with his participation in JYP Entertainment's survival show, also titled "Stray Kids." The show, which aired in late 2017, presented a unique challenge for Felix. Despite having trained for only 8-9 months after being cast through JYP Global Audition in December 2016, Felix found himself competing alongside trainees with much longer training periods [1].
The survival show tested Felix's skills and determination. In a dramatic turn of events, Felix faced elimination in episode 8 of the show [1]. This setback could have ended his K-pop aspirations, but Felix's resilience and the support from his fellow trainees and fans ultimately led to his reinstatement in the group. This experience likely strengthened Felix's resolve and bonded him more closely with his future bandmates.
Throughout the show, Felix's English fluency stood out as a unique asset. His ability to communicate fluently in English not only set him apart but also highlighted the potential international appeal of the group [2][3]. This skill would later prove invaluable in Stray Kids' global promotions and interactions with international fans.
Official Debut with Stray Kids (March 25, 2018)
After successfully overcoming the challenges of the survival show, Felix officially debuted as a member of Stray Kids on March 25, 2018 [4]. At the time of debut, Felix was 17 years old, making him one of the younger members of the group. Stray Kids debuted with eight members: Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N [5].
The group's debut marked a significant milestone in Felix's career. As a main dancer, rapper, and visual of Stray Kids [4], Felix quickly established himself as a crucial member of the group. His deep voice and distinctive Australian accent added a unique flavor to Stray Kids' music, while his dance skills, honed through years of physical training, contributed to the group's powerful performances.
Felix's debut with Stray Kids also represented a remarkable achievement given his relatively short training period. In just over a year, he had transformed from a high school student in Australia to a debuting K-pop idol in one of South Korea's most promising new groups. This rapid progression speaks volumes about Felix's talent, work ethic, and adaptability.
Role in Stray Kids
Position: Lead Dancer and Sub-Rapper
Felix has established himself as a crucial member of Stray Kids, holding the positions of lead dancer and lead rapper [1]. His role as a main dancer showcases his exceptional skills in choreography and performance, which he honed through years of physical training, including his background in taekwondo [2]. Felix's dance abilities contribute significantly to Stray Kids' powerful and dynamic stage presence, often drawing attention for his precise movements and charismatic expressions.
In addition to his dancing prowess, Felix serves as a lead rapper in the group [1]. This position allows him to showcase his unique vocal color and delivery style, adding depth and variety to Stray Kids' musical performances. Felix's rap parts often stand out due to his distinctive Australian accent, which brings an international flavor to the group's sound.
Moreover, Felix's role extends beyond his official positions. As a visual member of Stray Kids [3][4], he contributes to the group's overall image and appeal. His striking features, particularly his freckles which he considers his charming point [5], have become a recognizable and beloved aspect of his persona within the K-pop industry.
Vocal Contributions (Deep, Bass-heavy Voice)
One of Felix's most distinguishing features as a performer is his deep, bass-heavy voice. This unique vocal characteristic sets him apart not only within Stray Kids but also in the broader K-pop landscape. Felix's low-pitched vocals add a rich, resonant quality to Stray Kids' music, creating a striking contrast with the voices of other members.
Felix's deep voice is particularly effective in rap sections, where it lends weight and gravitas to his lines. His vocal timbre often features prominently in Stray Kids' songs, used strategically to enhance the dramatic impact of certain parts or to provide a powerful foundation for the group's dynamic sound.
Beyond rapping, Felix's distinctive voice also contributes to the group's vocal harmonies. While not primarily known as a vocalist, his deep tone adds depth to Stray Kids' overall vocal blend, enriching the group's musical texture. This versatility in his vocal contributions demonstrates Felix's adaptability and importance to Stray Kids' diverse musical style.
Musical Achievements
Album Releases and Chart Performances
Stray Kids, with Felix as a key member, has consistently demonstrated impressive chart performances and album sales since their debut. The group's journey began with their pre-debut EP 'Mixtape' in January 2018, which immediately caught attention by debuting at No. 2 on the World Albums chart [1]. This early success set the stage for their official debut and subsequent releases.
Felix and his bandmates officially debuted on March 25, 2018, with the mini-album "I am NOT" and its title track "District 9" [2]. This marked the beginning of their "I am" series, which established Stray Kids as a formidable new act in the K-pop industry [3]. The group continued to build momentum with subsequent releases in their "Clé" series in 2019, during which they also achieved their first music show win [3].
In 2020, Stray Kids made significant strides in expanding their global reach. They released English versions of their tracks "Double Knot" and "Levanter" as digital singles, showcasing their international appeal [4]. The same year saw the release of their debut studio album 'Go Live' in June, further solidifying their position in the industry [1].
The group's album sales have shown remarkable growth over time. In August 2021, their album 'Noeasy' sold over 1,127,800 copies, demonstrating their rapidly expanding fanbase [5]. However, it was in 2022 that Stray Kids achieved a major milestone. Their album 'ODDINARY' reached number 1 on the Billboard 200 charts in March 2022, marking their first-ever U.S. number-one album [5][6].
Stray Kids' success on the Billboard 200 continued with their subsequent releases. They have now charted three No. 1 albums on this prestigious chart, with each new release surpassing the sales of the previous one [7][6]. These No. 1 albums include 'ODDINARY' (April 2022), 'MAXIDENT' (October 2022), and a third album not specified in the given sources [6].
Their most recent album, 'ROCK-STAR', released on November 10, 2023, continued this trend of success. The album's lead single "LALALALA" debuted at No. 90 on the Billboard Hot 100 with 6.1 million U.S. streams, marking Stray Kids' first entry on this chart [8]. This achievement further cements the group's growing influence in the global music scene.
Throughout their career, Stray Kids has released a diverse discography including multiple EPs, studio albums, and compilation albums. Some of their notable tracks include "Hellevator," "My Pace," "Miroh," "God's Menu," and "Back Door" [9][10]. Each release has showcased the group's evolving musical style and Felix's contributions as a rapper and dancer.
Notable Songs and Performances
Felix has made significant contributions to numerous Stray Kids songs, showcasing his unique deep voice and rap skills. In "Hall of Fame," Felix delivers a memorable English line: "Immortal like Hawking, in the hall of fame," which has resonated strongly with fans [1]. This line exemplifies Felix's ability to incorporate sophisticated references into his rap parts, adding depth to the group's lyrics.
While primarily known for his rapping, Felix has also demonstrated his vocal abilities in several tracks. Songs like "Hero's Soup" from the "I am YOU" album (2018) and "Phobia" from the "GO LIVE" album (2020) feature Felix's singing, revealing a different facet of his musical talent [2]. These performances highlight Felix's versatility as an artist within Stray Kids.
Stray Kids' discography includes numerous standout tracks where Felix's contributions are particularly noteworthy. Early releases like "Hellevator," "District 9," and "My Pace" established the group's sound and Felix's role within it [3]. As the group evolved, songs such as "God's Menu" and "Back Door" became iconic hits, with Felix's deep voice often providing impactful hooks or rap breaks.
The group has also released several English versions of their songs, allowing Felix to showcase his native English skills. Tracks like "Levanter (English Ver.)" and "Double Knot (English Ver.)" demonstrate the group's international appeal [4]. Additionally, Felix participated in the English version of "TOP," which served as the opening theme for the anime "Tower of God," further expanding their reach [5].
Felix's rap skills have continued to evolve, with fans noting his impressive flow in various performances. While specific examples are not provided in the sources, it's clear that Felix's rap parts are often highlighted as standout moments in Stray Kids' songs [6].
Collaborations have also provided Felix with opportunities to shine. For instance, he featured on NAYEON's track "TASTE" alongside fellow Stray Kids member Lee Know, showcasing his abilities outside of the group's usual style [7].
Throughout Stray Kids' discography, Felix's distinctive voice and rap style have become integral to the group's sound. From their debut tracks to their latest releases, Felix's parts often serve as memorable hooks or powerful rap breaks that contribute significantly to the songs' overall impact and popularity [8].
Dance Contributions
Recognition as One of the Best Dancers in Stray Kids
Felix has established himself as one of the standout dancers in Stray Kids, earning recognition for his impressive dance skills and powerful stage presence [1]. His dance abilities played a crucial role in his initial recognition during the "Stray Kids" reality TV show, where he showcased his talent and caught the attention of both judges and viewers [1]. As a main dancer of the group, Felix consistently demonstrates his prowess in choreography execution and performance.
Felix's dance contributions have become an integral part of Stray Kids' performances. His powerful dance skills, combined with his charismatic stage presence, significantly enhance the group's overall performance quality [2]. Fans and critics alike have noted Felix's ability to execute complex choreographies with precision and energy, often highlighting his performances in concert reviews and dance practice videos.
Dance Style Characteristics
Felix's dance style is characterized by its power, precision, and versatility. He brings a unique blend of strength and fluidity to his movements, likely influenced by his background in taekwondo. This martial arts training has likely contributed to his body control and discipline in dance [2].
One of the defining features of Felix's dance style is his ability to combine sharp, precise movements with smooth transitions. This creates a dynamic and visually striking performance style that captures audience attention. His execution of hip-hop-inspired moves, often featured in Stray Kids' choreographies, is particularly noteworthy for its energy and accuracy.
Felix's dance style also showcases his adaptability. He effortlessly transitions between different dance genres, from the hard-hitting moves of hip-hop to the more fluid motions of contemporary dance, depending on the requirements of each song. This versatility allows him to contribute effectively to Stray Kids' diverse range of musical styles and concepts.
Moreover, Felix's dance performances are enhanced by his expressive facial expressions and stage presence. He has a unique ability to convey the emotion and energy of a song through his movements and expressions, adding depth to his performances [2]. This combination of technical skill and emotional expressiveness makes Felix's dance contributions particularly impactful in Stray Kids' live performances and music videos.
Rap and Songwriting
Development as a Rapper
Felix has shown significant growth as a rapper since his debut with Stray Kids. Initially introduced as a dancer and rapper in the "Male Group Project" during their pre-debut show [1], Felix has steadily honed his rap skills. His distinctive deep voice has become a signature element in Stray Kids' music, often utilized for impactful rap sections [2].
However, Felix's development as a rapper has not been without challenges. Some observers have noted that his deep voice is frequently used as a defining feature, potentially limiting his vocal range [4]. This observation suggests that Felix continues to work on expanding his rap techniques and vocal capabilities to showcase a broader range of skills.
Throughout his career, Felix has developed his own performative style, which includes his approach to rapping. He has mentioned realizing he had "developed my own way of performing" during the group's complex and demanding performances [5]. This personal style likely extends to his rap delivery, contributing to his unique presence within Stray Kids.
Songwriting Contributions
Felix has actively participated in the songwriting process for Stray Kids, contributing to the group's reputation for self-produced music. According to a fan-compiled spreadsheet, Felix has been involved in writing at least 21 songs for the group as of July 2023 [6]. This level of involvement demonstrates Felix's growing skills as a songwriter and his commitment to the group's creative process.
In the album "MAXIDENT," Felix, along with fellow member Lee Know, contributed additional lyrics and melodies [7]. Felix explained their approach: "We wanted to express a more deep, mature love, so I had to consider this when writing the lyrics." This statement reveals Felix's thoughtful approach to songwriting, considering the overall concept and emotional depth of the lyrics.
Felix's songwriting often incorporates his unique perspective as an Australian member of a K-pop group. His bilingual abilities allow him to contribute both Korean and English lyrics, adding linguistic diversity to Stray Kids' songs. This skill is particularly valuable in crafting hooks and memorable English phrases that appeal to a global audience [8].
Role as a Visual Member
Felix has established himself as a prominent visual member of Stray Kids. The group doesn't officially designate a single visual, but fans and industry observers consistently recognize Felix as one of the group's standout visuals alongside Hyunjin and Lee Know [1]. His position as a visual contributes significantly to Stray Kids' overall image and appeal.
Felix's distinctive features, particularly his freckles, have become a signature part of his visual identity. These unique characteristics set him apart in the K-pop industry, where clear skin is often prized. Felix's embrace of his natural features has resonated with fans, promoting a message of self-acceptance and diversity in beauty standards.
Language Skills
Felix's role in English-language content is pivotal for Stray Kids. Along with Bang Chan, he often leads English interviews, providing clear and articulate responses that help international fans better understand the group [5]. His natural command of English allows him to express complex ideas and emotions, giving depth to Stray Kids' international communications.
Felix's English skills allow him to serve as a bridge between Stray Kids and their international fanbase. He often takes the lead in English-language interviews, effortlessly conveying the group's messages and personalities to a global audience. This ability has been instrumental in building Stray Kids' international fanbase and enhancing their global image.
Within the group, Felix's English proficiency has also influenced the other members. For instance, member Hyunjin has expressed a desire to improve his English skills, likely inspired by Felix's bilingual abilities [7]. This internal motivation to learn English has further strengthened Stray Kids' capacity to connect with international fans.
Group Achievements with Stray Kids
Awards and Recognitions
Felix, as a crucial member of Stray Kids, has shared in the group's numerous accolades since their debut. Stray Kids' impressive trajectory began with a series of new artist awards in 2018 and early 2019. The group clinched six newcomer awards, including the prestigious Best New Male Artist at the 2018 Mnet Asian Music Awards and Best New Artist at several other ceremonies [1][2]. These early recognitions set the stage for Stray Kids' rising prominence in the K-pop industry.
As Stray Kids continued to evolve and release new music, their award collection grew significantly. To date, the group has amassed a total of 36 ceremony awards [3]. Among these, six stand out as grand prizes, also known as Daesangs, which represent the highest honors in Korean music awards.
In 2022, Stray Kids reached another milestone when they received their first M.T.V. Europe Music Award for "Best Korean Act" [4]. This international recognition highlighted the group's growing global influence and appeal, to which Felix's bilingual skills and charismatic performances have undoubtedly contributed.
While most of Felix's accolades come as part of Stray Kids, he has also earned individual recognition for his philanthropic efforts. In a groundbreaking achievement, Felix became the youngest member to join UNICEF's Honors Club [5][6]. This distinction came after Felix made a generous donation of 100 million won to the Korean Committee for UNICEF.
Concert Tours and Performances
Stray Kids, with Felix as an integral member, has embarked on several significant concert tours since their debut. The group has performed on three major concert tours to date, showcasing their growing popularity and global appeal [1].
One of the most notable tours in Stray Kids' career has been their Second World Tour "MANIAC". This extensive tour began on November 12, 2022, in Jakarta and concluded on April 2, 2023, in Los Angeles [2]. The MANIAC tour demonstrated Stray Kids' ability to captivate audiences across multiple continents, with Felix's performances receiving particular acclaim. During the Seattle stop of the Maniac Tour, Felix delivered an electrifying performance that left fans in awe, highlighting his growth as a performer and his crucial role in the group's live shows [3]. The MANIAC tour also coincided with a significant milestone for Felix and his bandmates. During the tour, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N celebrated their 5-year anniversary as members of Stray Kids [6].
The MANIAC tour also included an encore concert in Osaka on February 25, 2023, which was livestreamed, allowing fans worldwide to experience Stray Kids' dynamic performances [2]. This digital component of the tour expanded the group's reach and provided Felix with a platform to connect with a global audience.
Stray Kids' tours have not been limited to musical performances. The group has also engaged in various fan interactions and cultural experiences during their travels. For instance, during their time in the United States, Felix, along with members Seungmin and I.N, took the opportunity to try American snacks for the first time, creating endearing content for their fans [4].
The success of their tours has led to high demand for Stray Kids' live performances. As of 2024, the group has announced upcoming tour dates, with tickets in high demand [5].
Solo Activities and Collaborations
Felix has undertaken several notable individual projects and collaborations outside of Stray Kids, showcasing his versatility as an artist. On December 21, 2022, Felix made a significant stride in his solo career by writing and composing his original solo song "Deep end" for Stray Kids' album SKZ-REPLAY [1].
In addition to his solo songwriting efforts, Felix has participated in various collaborations that extend beyond Stray Kids' usual activities. One such collaboration occurred during the "Kingdom" television show, where Stray Kids, including Felix, worked with members of ATEEZ. This cross-group project allowed Felix to showcase his skills alongside peers from another prominent K-pop group, broadening his artistic experience [2].
Felix has also contributed to special projects within the JYP Entertainment family. In 2024, Stray Kids collaborated with fellow JYP groups ITZY and NMIXX for a Coca-Cola K-Wave project, resulting in the song "Like Magic" [6]. While this was a group effort, such collaborations provide Felix with opportunities to work with artists outside of Stray Kids, potentially influencing his artistic development.
On the performance front, Felix has been involved in creating cover songs and solo performances. A playlist dedicated to Felix's covers, solos, and features showcases his individual vocal and rap skills outside of Stray Kids' discography [7]. Looking towards the future, there's speculation among fans about potential solo albums from Stray Kids members, including Felix [8]. While no official announcements have been made, the positive reception to Felix's solo contributions in group albums suggests a potential market for his individual work.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
Felix's passion for music extends far beyond his professional commitments with Stray Kids. He actively engages with various musical genres, demonstrating a broad and eclectic taste [1][2]. Felix often listens to rock and pop songs in his leisure time [3], which may inspire his own musical style and performances.
Dancing remains a cornerstone of Felix's life, both as a professional skill and a personal hobby [1][2]. He consistently dedicates time to dance outside of official schedules, showcasing his genuine passion for the art form. This continuous engagement allows Felix to experiment with new styles and refine his techniques.
Beatboxing stands out as one of Felix's unique and intriguing hobbies [1][2][4]. This skill demonstrates his musical versatility and adds an interesting dimension to his artistic repertoire. Felix's interest in beatboxing may influence his approach to creating rhythms and sounds in Stray Kids' music, particularly in his rap sections.
Felix particularly enjoys shopping, with a special focus on clothing [1][2][4]. This interest in fashion likely plays a significant role in shaping his personal style and contributes to Stray Kids' overall visual appeal. Felix's fashion sense may influence the group's image in music videos, photoshoots, and public appearances.
Traveling ranks high among Felix's favorite activities [1][2][4]. This passion aligns well with Stray Kids' international career, involving world tours and global promotions. Felix's enthusiasm for exploring new places may also contribute to the group's content creation, such as travel vlogs or behind-the-scenes footage that fans eagerly anticipate.