Winter (real name Kim Minjeong), a member of the girl group aespa, is not only recognized for her musical talent and captivating stage presence but also draws attention for her family background and the strong ties she shares with her loved ones.
Family Background
Winter was born into a family of four consisting of her father, mother, older brother, and herself. Her brother, Kim Jeongwoo (born in 1999), is currently serving as an officer in the South Korean military. Both her father and brother have served in the armed forces, shaping a clear tradition of military service within the family. Growing up in such an environment instilled in Winter a strong sense of discipline, resilience, and determination.
Heritage and Hometown
Winter belongs to the Gimhae Kim clan (김해김씨), 22nd generation, Samhyeon branch (삼현파). She was born in Nampo-dong, Jung District, Busan, but grew up and studied in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do. Coming from a region rich in history and culture, Winter carries the grace of Busan along with the energy and vibrancy of the younger generation.
Religion and Beliefs
Her family practices Buddhism, though Winter herself does not follow any particular religion. She has shared her belief in the existence of extraterrestrial life, reasoning that the universe is too vast for humans to be the only beings. This perspective reflects her imaginative nature and open-minded thinking.
Sibling & Family Ties
Winter’s relationship with her brother Kim Jeongwoo is known to be both close and pragmatic. As children, the two often quarreled, but as adults, Jeongwoo has become a strong source of support for her.
During a conversation on the Bubble app, Winter revealed that when she once expressed on Instagram that she was “struggling,” her brother immediately sent her a message saying, “I’ll take care of everything for you.” Their father, deeply moved, added, “I’ll crush everything for you! My daughter!” (나는 다 밟아줄게! 우리 딸!). These words highlight the unshakable love and protection Winter receives from both her father and brother.
Family Influence
Being raised in a military family strongly influenced Winter’s mindset and early aspirations. As a child, she once dreamed of becoming a soldier. This interest is also reflected in aespa’s universe, where Winter possesses the special ability “Armamenter” (아머멘터), related to weaponry and combat.
In addition, Winter practiced Haedong Gumdo (해동검도), a Korean martial art using the sword, for seven months. Her physical agility—including the unusual ability to rotate her wrist 360 degrees—adds to her distinctive qualities as an idol.
Introverted yet Expressive
Though naturally introverted, Winter often takes on the role of “mood maker” (분위기 메이커) within aespa. She is observant, perceptive, and consistently brings positive energy to her group.
Notably, as a teenager, Winter did not dare to directly tell her parents about her dream of becoming a singer. Her opportunity came unexpectedly when she was scouted at a dance festival in 2016. From that moment, she began the journey of turning her artistic aspirations into reality.
