Bang Chan of Stray Kids is not only a talented member of the group, but he’s also the leader and a key contributor to their music. Known for his incredible rapping skills, smooth vocals, and impressive dance moves, Bang Chan brings a dynamic energy to Stray Kids‘ performances.
But that’s not all! He’s also involved in the production and songwriting process, showcasing his creativity and passion for music. With his leadership and dedication, Bang Chan has played a vital role in shaping the identity of Stray Kids.
Bang Chan’s Childhood
Bang Christopher Chan was born on October 3, 1997, and is the eldest son of three children. The talented Stray Kids leader attended Newton High School of Performing Arts.
There, he took lessons in ballet and modern dance. He was also interested in swimming competitions and sports when growing up.
As for Bang Chan’s real name, his parents gave him two names, English and Korean. His name in Korea is Bang Chan, however, he went by Christopher Bang or Chris in Sydney.
Bang Chan’s Journey From Auditioning For JYP to Leading Stray Kids
He auditioned for the JYP Entertainment trainee when he was 13 years old. He immediately passed the audition in Australia and moved to Korea to undergo intense training as an idol trainee. However, it took him 7 whole years to debut and become the leader of Stray Kids.
During that time, Chan saw his fellow trainee either had a successful debut or failed and left the agency. The Stray Kids rapper considers it to be one of the hardest times of his life.
JYP Entertainment hasn’t given a specific reason for keeping Bang Chan as a trainee for more than 7 years.
Bang Chan Picked Stray Kids’ Debut Lineup
Chan has played a crucial role in forming the K-pop group, Stray Kids. It would not be wrong to say that the group exists because of him. JYP Entertainment saw something special in him and entrusted the selection of their debut lineup to him.
3RACHA
He is also part of the Stray Kids sub-unit, 3RACHA along with Changbin and Han Jisung. This producing group was formed in late 2016 and released their untitled mixtape on SoundCloud in January 2017.
Their debut mixtape, consisting of 7 songs, was well-received by fans and critics. Everyone praised their ability to write lyrics and produce music at such a professional level.
Moreover, all three members of 3RACHA contributed to writing and producing the Stray Kids’ first album I am Not (March 2018).
Bang Christopher Chan’s Personality
In an interview with Teen Vogue, it was revealed that he tries to not be the center of attention offstage. The K-pop star is shy and reserved and receiving a lot of attention makes him uncomfortable.
He also shared that ‘a compliment makes me feel really shy’. Whenever he receives a compliment, his first response is, ‘Am I allowed to accept it?’
Bang Chan is a Hard Worker
Bang Chan is a perfectionist and a hard worker. Since he had the longest training period, he has mastered everything. He can sing, dance, rap, compose music, and carry out leadership responsibilities simultaneously.
Changbin shared with the STAYs that he is the busiest member of the group. Often, he is also responsible for doing the music editing that matches the choreography.
He is a Perfectionist
In a Teen Vogue article about Bang Chan, it was revealed that he is a perfectionist. That’s not something he strives to achieve after becoming the leader of the group, he has always been like that.
Since a young age, Bang Chan has always followed a meticulously organized schedule.
Interesting Facts About Stray Kids’ Bang Chan
- He has two younger siblings named Hannah and Lucas.
- Chan owns a pet named Berry.
- Prior to his debut, he appeared in TWICE‘s debut music video Like OOH-AHH.
- Ryan Reynolds is a fan of Chan and gifted him an autographed Aviation Gin.
- He can speak multiple languages including English, Korean, Japanese, and a bit of Chinese.
With his exceptional talent and captivating personality, Bang Chan has become a beloved figure in the K-pop scene. From his impressive dance skills to his heartfelt songwriting, he continues to inspire fans all around the globe.