If you’re a STAY, you probably already have a calendar alert set, a special playlist ready, and maybe even a stray cat donation link bookmarked. But for everyone else—or those just diving into the chaotic, talented world of JYP Entertainment’s powerhouse group—knowing when is Lee Know birthday is basically a rite of passage.
Honestly, it’s not just about a date. It’s about a guy who went from being a backup dancer for BTS to becoming one of the most technically proficient "dance gems" in the entire industry.
The Date You Need to Know: October 25
Let’s get the facts straight immediately. Lee Know (born Lee Min-ho) celebrates his birthday on October 25. He was born in 1998 in Gimpo, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.
Why does this specific date matter so much? Because in the K-pop fandom world, October is essentially "Lee Know Month." You’ve got the transition into Scorpio season, which, if you believe in astrology, explains a lot about his intense stage presence and that slightly mysterious, "4D" personality he’s famous for.
By the time 2026 rolls around, Lee Know will be turning 28 (international age). It’s a massive milestone. Most idols at this stage are either slowing down or pivoting, but Lee Know seems to be doing the opposite. He’s leaning into his role as a luxury icon and a philanthropist, all while keeping that razor-sharp choreography that makes Stray Kids performances look like a high-speed chase.
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From BTS Backup Dancer to Global Icon
You can't talk about Lee Know’s birthday without looking at how far the guy has come. It’s kinda wild.
Before he was the "Dancing Gem" of Stray Kids, he was literally just a guy in the background. He toured with BTS during their Wings era. There’s famous footage of him in the "Not Today" music video and live stages. You can see him there—focused, sharp, and clearly meant for more than just the back row.
He joined JYP Entertainment and, in a move that still stresses out fans to this day, was actually eliminated during the Stray Kids survival show. Imagine that. The group’s main dancer almost didn't make the cut. Thankfully, he was brought back, and the rest is history.
Why 2025 Changed Everything for Lee Know
Last year was a turning point. On his 27th birthday (October 25, 2025), Lee Know didn't just post a selfie and call it a day. He actually made headlines for donating a massive 200 million won (roughly $150,000 USD).
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He split the money right down the middle:
- 100 million won went to Samsung Medical Center to help patients needing transplants and surgeries.
- 100 million won went to Nabiya Saranghae, a cat protection group.
If you know Lee Know, you know the cat thing is real. He’s the proud dad of Soonie, Doongie, and Dori—three cats he rescued. He’s been a member of the "Bob Pierce Honor Club" (World Vision) since 2024, consistently using his birthday as a platform for actual change rather than just a party.
More Than Just a Dancer
People usually search for when is Lee Know birthday because they want to participate in the massive fan projects that happen every October. We're talking billboards in Times Square, customized cafe events in Seoul, and huge social media trends.
But lately, the conversation has shifted. In July 2025, Lee Know was officially named a Global Brand Ambassador for Gucci.
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He’s no longer "just" a member of a boy band. He’s a fashion week staple. Seeing him at the Gucci Cruise shows or fronting major campaigns has added a new layer to his career. He’s successfully bridged the gap between being an idol and being a high-fashion muse.
What to Expect for His Next Birthday
As we look toward his birthday in 2026, the stakes are even higher. Stray Kids has already teased their "STEP OUT 2026" projects, which include a new world tour and more "SKZ-REPLAY" content.
If you're planning to celebrate, keep an eye on these things:
- Official Fan Meetings: SKZ usually holds massive events around the time of member birthdays or anniversaries.
- Philanthropy: Following Lee Know’s lead, many fans now organize "donation drives" for animal shelters or children's hospitals in his name.
- The "Lee Know Look": Expect a special Gucci-themed birthday shoot or at least a very expensive-looking outfit in his annual birthday livestream.
He’s a man of few words but big actions. Whether he’s teasing his members in the third person or dropping six-figure donations to save stray cats, Lee Know has carved out a space in K-pop that is uniquely his.
So, mark your calendars for October 25. Whether you’re there for the dancing, the cats, or the Gucci fits, it’s going to be a big one.
Next Steps for STAYs:
Check the official JYP Fan's board or the Stray Kids Twitter (X) account about two weeks before October 25. This is usually when the official birthday merch and hashtag events are announced. If you want to join the philanthropic side of the celebration, look into local cat rescues that accept donations in honor of "Lee Min-ho" to keep the tradition he started in 2025 alive.