During LE SSERAFIM’s daring Drag Queen-themed stage for “Spaghetti” at the year-end music festival, fans couldn’t take their eyes off one unexpected performer: a male dancer who performed center during the dance break, channeling fierce energy, striking visuals, and stage command that rivaled any idol.
The dancer was quickly identified online as Nana Youngrong Kim, a well-known drag artist in South Korea.
Fans were stunned not only by Nana’s performance—but also by his real-life appearance. Moments after the show aired, netizens unearthed his everyday photos and were left in disbelief: beneath the glamorous drag persona was a rugged, muscular man, often seen shirtless at the gym, flaunting a ripped physique and six-pack abs.
The contrast between Nana’s sultry, queen-like persona on stage and his masculine, gym-hardened appearance off-stage went viral across social platforms. Many fans expressed shock, fascination, and admiration in equal measure:
- “Wait… this is the same person?? I’m stunned.”
- “This level of duality is insane. Nana is a performer through and through.”
- “He’s hotter out of drag than most male idols. Respect.”
But this isn’t Nana Youngrong Kim’s first time in the spotlight.
A Longtime Drag Pioneer in K-pop
Nana is no stranger to K-pop stages. He previously appeared in LE SSERAFIM’s “Spaghetti” MV, as well as Mamamoo’s “HIP” and Woosung’s “FACE” —each time leaving a distinct mark with bold visuals and expressive performance art.
With over 16 years in the entertainment industry, Nana is now considered one of South Korea’s most prominent and influential drag artists. Known for his experimental makeup, boundary-pushing fashion, and fearless creativity, he’s carved out a respected space in both LGBTQ+ culture and K-pop-adjacent performance art.
A Sign of Changing Times?
LE SSERAFIM’s choice to feature a drag-centered concept during a primetime broadcast, and to allow a drag performer to take center stage, reflects a shift in the K-pop industry—toward more diverse, bold, and inclusive storytelling.
Fans are praising not only Nana for his electric presence but also HYBE and SBS for giving the spotlight to queer artistry in a meaningful way.
For now, Nana Youngrong Kim is once again the talk of the town—not for scandal, but for stealing the spotlight with unapologetic glam, fearless duality, and unforgettable performance energy.
Sources: kenh14