Nichkhun

Nichkhun Buck Horvejkul is a Thai-American rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, and model best known as the first Southeast Asian member of the South Korean boy band 2PM. Born in California and raised in Thailand, he holds dual citizenship and has become a cultural bridge between K-pop, J-pop, and Western audiences through his bilingual fluency. As of 2026, he remains an active performer with a career spanning over fifteen years.

His success extends far beyond group activities, marked by solo music releases in Japan and starring roles in Korean, Thai, and Chinese dramas. Nichkhun has cultivated a reputation for warmth and humor, earning him the affectionate title "Thai Prince" among fans worldwide. He continues to engage directly with his audience through social media and variety shows, maintaining a presence that feels both global and intimately personal. [edit]

Nichkhun spent his early childhood in Rancho Cucamonga, California, where he was born to an American father of Scottish and Irish descent and a Thai mother. The family moved back to Thailand when he was young, and he grew up primarily in Bangkok under the care of his mother. This bicultural upbringing allowed him to develop native-level fluency in both English and Thai, a skill that would later define his career path.

During his high school years, he discovered a passion for performing arts and began exploring music. He enrolled at Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok but soon realized his true calling lay elsewhere. In 2007, he traveled to Seoul to participate in JYP Entertainment's "Superstar Survival" audition. His performance stood out immediately, and he was selected as one of the final seven members to form the new boy group 2PM. Before stepping onto the stage as a professional idol, he underwent rigorous training in singing, dancing, and rap, preparing for a debut that would change his life forever. [edit]

2PM officially debuted on September 4, 2008, with the single "Hottest Time of the Day." Nichkhun played a key role in establishing the group's unique "beastly" concept while simultaneously showcasing his distinct charm and versatility. His ability to speak English fluently made him an invaluable asset during the group's rapid expansion into international markets, particularly Japan and China.

His solo career took off in 2013 with the release of the Japanese EP Story of..., which charted well and demonstrated his vocal range outside the group dynamic. He followed this with his self-titled EP NICHKHUN in 2015. Beyond music, he successfully transitioned into acting, starring in notable dramas like Seven Something (2012), One and a Half Summer (2014), and the romantic comedy Brother of the Year (2018). His acting work earned him the Best Actor in a Romantic Comedy award at the Chinese Film Awards in 2018.

Nichkhun also gained immense popularity as a television personality. His time on the variety show We Got Married alongside actress Goo Hara solidified his "Thai Prince" persona and created some of the most memorable moments in K-pop variety history. In recent years, he has remained active in the industry, appearing in new promotional content for 2PM and continuing to host various programs while addressing personal topics like aging and health with refreshing transparency. [edit]

Nichkhun projects an image of warmth, intelligence, and approachability. Known for his "aristocratic" looks and polite manners, he earned the enduring nickname "Thai Prince," which reflects both his appearance and his respectful demeanor. His style often blends casual streetwear with polished fashion, appealing to a broad demographic across Asia and the West.

On social media, he is known for cooking videos and direct interactions with fans, breaking down the traditional barrier between idol and audience. His willingness to discuss personal topics like weight gain and aging has fostered a strong emotional connection with followers who appreciate his honesty. This authenticity sets him apart in an industry often defined by perfection. [edit]

Nichkhun holds significant standing in the global entertainment landscape according to the iFANN Global Fame Rankings. As of September 2026, he is ranked the 53rd most famous person in Thailand, the 22nd most famous person from Thailand, and the 57th most famous person in J-Pop / J-Rock. These placements reflect his enduring appeal across multiple regions and genres.

While there is no separate official fandom name dedicated solely to him, he is supported by NO.2, the collective fanbase of 2PM. His unique status as the first Southeast Asian idol in a major K-pop group has cultivated a fiercely loyal community, particularly in Thailand and the United States. Fans organize massive birthday projects every June 24, flooding social media with hashtags and coordinating global streaming parties. They are also known for charitable initiatives, often raising funds for disaster relief and animal welfare in his name.

Nichkhun interacts with his fans in a notably warm and direct manner. He frequently hosts live streams where he cooks, chats casually, and responds to comments in English, making him feel accessible rather than distant. His transparency about personal struggles has deepened these connections, turning casual viewers into devoted supporters who value his humanity above all else. [edit]

Nichkhun is famous for introducing his 2PM members using only emojis during a variety show segment, a witty display that showcased his creativity and became a beloved introduction to the group's dynamics. Fans still retell this story as a prime example of his playful personality.

In 2026, he addressed long-standing rumors about bullying within the group, clarifying that a past airport incident was a misunderstanding. That same year, he took legal action against a stalker, highlighting the serious challenges idols face regarding privacy. His candid discussion about weight gain and his "three boiled eggs" diet regimen humanized his image, shifting the narrative from an untouchable star to a relatable figure who faces real struggles.

The nickname "Thai Prince" stems from his aristocratic features and polite demeanor, which have become synonymous with his public image. Despite his fame, he maintains a close bond with his mother and often speaks fondly of her influence on his life. [edit]

Nichkhun was raised primarily by his mother in Thailand after moving from the United States as a child. His father is American of Scottish and Irish descent, while his mother is Thai. He maintains a close relationship with his family and often shares glimpses of their bond in interviews. While he keeps his private life relatively low-key compared to some peers, he has expressed deep gratitude for his mother's support throughout his career. He does not have any children currently. [edit]

J.Y. Park, Goo Hara, Jun. K, Taecyeon, Wooyoung, Junho, Chansung, Jay Park. [edit]

Nichkhun's most documented relationship was with fellow K-pop idol Goo Hara. They met while co-hosting the reality show We Got Married in 2013. Their on-screen chemistry was so strong that it fueled widespread speculation about a real-life romance. While they never officially confirmed a romantic relationship, they were widely considered a "couple" by fans and media. The pair went on hiatus from the show in 2014, and rumors of a breakup circulated. Goo Hara passed away in November 2019, and Nichkhun expressed deep grief, paying tribute to her as a close friend and partner.

Following his time with Goo Hara, Nichkhun has been the subject of various dating rumors, including links to actresses and models, but none have been officially confirmed by either party or credible sources. As of 2026, there are no verified reports of a current romantic partner, engagement, or marriage. He is currently reported to be single. [edit]

iFANN Editorial Team research places Nichkhun's net worth at approximately $15 million as of 2026. This figure reflects his diverse income streams spanning music, acting, endorsements, and business ventures. His wealth is built on royalties from 2PM's extensive discography and his own solo releases, which have sold millions of copies across Asia.

Acting salaries from Korean, Thai, and Chinese dramas provide a steady income, while long-term endorsement contracts with major brands like Samsung, LG, and various cosmetic companies contribute significantly. His high fees for hosting and guest appearances on variety shows add to his earnings. Additionally, he has invested in hospitality and lifestyle brands in Thailand and South Korea, ensuring financial growth beyond his entertainment activities. [edit]

Nichkhun has received individual recognition for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He won the Best Variety Performer award at the Korean Drama Awards in 2013 for his work on We Got Married. In 2014, he received the Most Popular Foreign Artist award in Japan. His acting skills were honored with the Best Actor in a Romantic Comedy award at the Chinese Film Awards in 2018 for Brother of the Year. He was also inducted into the K-Pop Hall of Fame in 2020. [edit]