How to dress like Rain, K-Pop pioneer and style icon
Jung Ji-hoon, better known by his stage name Rain, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, dancer, actor, producer, and fashion icon who has left an indelible mark on the global entertainment industry.
Born on June 25, 1982, in Seosan, South Korea, Rain rose from humble beginnings to become a trailblazer of the Hallyu wave, the global surge of K-pop culture. With a career spanning over two decades, Rain has released seven albums, starred in internationally acclaimed dramas and films, and built a reputation as one of Korea’s most influential celebrities.
Beyond his musical and acting achievements, Rain’s modern, cool, and versatile style has made him a fashion trendsetter, inspiring fans and designers alike.
Let’s delve head first into Rain’s illustrious career, his evolution as an artist, his recent endeavors, and his distinctive fashion sense that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Early life
Jung Ji-hoon’s journey to stardom was not without challenges. Growing up in Seosan, South Korea, Rain faced financial hardship after his father’s business failed during the 1997 Korean recession. His mother, who struggled with diabetes, supported the family as a food vendor until her passing in 2000.
These early struggles shaped Rain’s resilience and determination. As a shy child, Rain discovered his passion for dance in sixth grade during a school talent show, where he imitated moves he saw on television, earning applause that ignited his dream of becoming a performer.
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In his teens, Rain joined the short-lived boy band Fanclub, debuting in 1998 with the single “In Search of a Dream,” a cover of Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping.” The group disbanded due to lack of commercial success, and Rain faced further setbacks, including 18 rejections from entertainment agencies who criticized his appearance, particularly his lack of “double eyelids.”
Undeterred, Rain’s persistence led him to JYP Entertainment in 2000, where CEO Park Jin-young recognized his talent after a grueling audition, describing him as “desperate” and “like a tiger about to starve.”
Solo career breakthrough
Rain debuted as a solo artist on May 13, 2002, with his first album, N001 (also known as Bad Guy), under JYP Entertainment. The album’s title track, “Bad Guy,” and the single “Handshake” showcased his commanding stage presence and dance skills, earning him attention in South Korea.
His second album, How to Avoid the Sun (2003), further solidified his popularity with the hit single “Ways to Avoid the Sun.” During this period, Rain also hosted KBS’s Music Bank, gaining visibility as a charismatic entertainer.
The turning point came with his third album, It’s Raining (2004), which catapulted Rain to international stardom. The album sold over 200,000 copies in South Korea and one million across Asia, with the title track becoming a cultural phenomenon.
Rain’s dynamic performances, blending R&B, hip-hop, and intricate choreography, established him as a pioneer of the Hallyu wave. His Rainy Day Tour in 2005, which included 14 concerts across eight countries, sold over 150,000 tickets, cementing his status as a global star.
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From music to K-dramas and Hollywood
Parallel to his music career, Rain ventured into acting, debuting in the 2003 KBS drama Sang Doo! Let’s Go to School, for which he won the KBS Best New Actor Award.
His breakout role came in 2004 with the pan-Asian hit drama Full House, opposite Song Hye-kyo. The drama’s average rating of 31.9% and peak of 42.2% made it one of the most successful K-dramas of its time, establishing Rain as a Hallyu icon.
Rain’s film career began with the 2006 Korean movie I’m a Cyborg, But That’s OK, directed by Park Chan-wook, which won the Alfred Bauer Prize at the Berlin International Film Festival.
Years later, his Hollywood debut came in 2008 with Speed Racer, followed by a starring role in Ninja Assassin (2009), making him the first Korean to win an MTV Movie Award. Rain continued to balance Korean and international projects, starring in dramas like The Fugitive: Plan B (2010) and My Lovely Girl (2014), and films such as The Prince (2014) alongside Bruce Willis.
A career in music and business
Rain’s subsequent albums, including Rain’s World (2006), Rainism (2008), and Rain Effect (2014), showcased his evolution as an artist. Rainism included the hit single “Love Story,” featuring actress Ha Ji-won in its music video, though the album faced controversy in South Korea due to suggestive lyrics, leading to a restriction for audiences under 19.
In 2010, Rain released the mini-album Back to the Basic, with tracks like “Love Song” and “Hip Song,” before embarking on his farewell tour, The Best Show Tour, prior to his mandatory military service from 2011 to 2013.
In 2007, Rain founded J. Tune Entertainment, later establishing J. Tune Creative, which included his clothing line, SIXTOFIVE, where he served as both designer and model. He also produced the boy band MBLAQ under J. Tune. In 2013, Rain signed with Cube DC and later founded Rain Company, maintaining his independence as an artist and entrepreneur.
Rain’s career saw a resurgence in 2020 when his 2017 song “Gang” went viral, sparking a remix with artists like Jay Park and Sik-K. That same year, he formed the project group SSAK3 with Lee Hyo-ri and Yoo Jae-suk on the reality show Hang Out with Yoo, releasing a retro-inspired summer hit.
His Still Raining tour in 2023 marked his return to the U.S. after 15 years, where he expressed excitement about reconnecting with American fans and highlighted K-pop’s global impact.
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As of 2025, Rain, now 43, continues to balance music, acting, and television appearances. He has appeared on shows like Dancing Queens on the Road (2023) alongside artists such as Zico and HyunA, and performed at events like KCON 2023 LA.
His reality TV projects, including The Hungry and the Hairy and Twogether, have showcased his approachable personality, earning praise for his coaching skills and mentorship, particularly in programs like I-Land and BeMbitious.
Rain’s influence extends beyond entertainment. Named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2006, 2011, and topping their online poll multiple times, Rain has been recognized as a global cultural force.
His estimated net worth of $49 million, combined with his wife, actress Kim Tae-hee’s wealth, makes them one of Korea’s richest celebrity couples, with properties valued at $43 million. Rain’s marriage to Kim Tae-hee in 2017 and their two daughters (born 2017 and 2019) have kept him in the public eye, though he maintains a private family life.
Rain’s career has not been without controversy. In 2013, during his mandatory military service, he faced public scrutiny for reportedly taking excessive leave days and meeting Kim Tae-hee without wearing his army hat, violating military protocol. The incident sparked online complaints, though Rain admitted the violation, and his punishment was later determined by the Ministry of Defence.
Additionally, in 2010, he faced a lawsuit from promoters over a canceled U.S. tour, which was dismissed, and accusations of embezzlement from J. Tune Creative, which did not result in convictions. These incidents, while notable, have not overshadowed his enduring popularity.
Style cool as Rain
Rain’s fashion sense is as dynamic as his career, blending modern trends with a cool, effortless edge that has made him a style icon in Korea and beyond.
Known for his ability to adapt his look to various contexts, whether on stage, in dramas, or at public events, Rain’s style is characterized by bold choices, sleek tailoring, and a knack for balancing streetwear with high fashion.
Stage fashion
Rain’s stage outfits are a testament to his performer persona: vibrant, confident, and trendsetting. During his Rainy Day Tour and Still Raining tour, he often wore fitted leather jackets, distressed jeans, and graphic tees paired with statement accessories like layered necklaces or oversized sunglasses.
His choreography-heavy performances call for functional yet stylish clothing, such as breathable bomber jackets and tailored joggers, often in monochromatic palettes like black, white, or metallics, which enhance his sleek, powerful stage presence. Rain’s use of bold textures, like leather or denim with metallic accents, reflects his ability to merge hip-hop influences with K-pop’s polished aesthetic.
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Red carpet and high fashion
On the red carpet, Rain opts for tailored suits that exude sophistication with a modern twist. He frequently chooses slim-fit blazers in neutral tones like charcoal, navy, or black, paired with crisp white shirts or turtlenecks for a minimalist yet striking look.
His appearance at events like the Seoul Festa 2022 showcased his preference for structured outerwear, such as double-breasted coats, paired with sleek trousers and polished loafers. Rain’s collaboration with his clothing line SIXTOFIVE has allowed him to experiment with avant-garde designs, incorporating asymmetrical cuts and bold patterns that align with Korea’s progressive fashion trends and fashion week brands.
Off-stage, Rain’s casual style is a blend of streetwear and luxury fashion, reflecting his versatility. He’s often seen in oversized hoodies, distressed denim, and high-top sneakers, paired with statement pieces like bucket hats or chunky jewelry.
His social media posts highlight a preference for brands like Balenciaga, Off-White, and Supreme, which resonate with younger audiences. Rain’s ability to layer pieces—such as a graphic tee under a flannel shirt with a bomber jacket—creates a relaxed yet curated look that’s quintessentially modern. His 2020 viral moment with “Gang” saw him sporting retro-inspired tracksuits and sneakers, tapping into the nostalgic yet trendy 90s aesthetic.
Rain’s journey from a struggling teenager to a global superstar is a testament to his talent, resilience, and adaptability. As a pioneer of the Hallyu wave, he has shaped K-pop’s global rise, starred in iconic dramas and films, and built a multifaceted career as a singer, actor, producer, and designer.
His modern and cool dressing style—marked by bold, versatile, and trendsetting choices—has cemented his status as a fashion icon, influencing both fans and the industry. At 43, Rain continues to evolve, balancing his legacy with new projects, from music tours to reality TV, proving that his influence remains as strong as ever. Whether on stage, screen, or the streets, Rain embodies the essence of a true entertainer and style trailblazer.
How to dress like Rain in failproof 7 steps
Rain’s style is a dynamic blend of streetwear, high fashion, and performance-ready outfits that exude confidence and modernity.
Here are key tips to emulate his cool, versatile look:
Master monochromatic looks: Rain often opts for sleek, single-color outfits, especially in black, white, or metallics. Choose a tailored black blazer or a white graphic tee paired with matching trousers for a polished yet effortless vibe.
Incorporate statement outerwear: Invest in bold outerwear like leather jackets, bomber jackets, or double-breasted coats. Look for unique textures or asymmetrical cuts to mirror Rain’s avant-garde edge.
Layer with purpose: Combine oversized hoodies with flannel shirts or graphic tees under a fitted jacket. Add accessories like layered necklaces or a bucket hat to elevate the streetwear aesthetic.
Mix streetwear with luxury: Pair high-end sneakers (e.g., Balenciaga or Off-White) with distressed denim and a tailored blazer to balance casual and sophisticated elements, a signature of Rain’s off-stage style.
Opt for functional performance wear: For a stage-inspired look, choose breathable joggers or fitted cargo pants paired with a sleek tank top or cropped jacket, ensuring mobility and style.
Experiment with accessories: Add oversized sunglasses, chunky rings, or a statement belt to complete your outfit, reflecting Rain’s bold accessory choices.
Embrace retro vibes: Incorporate 90s-inspired pieces like tracksuits or vibrant sneakers, as seen in Rain’s “Gang” era, to capture his nostalgic yet trendy aesthetic.
Rain’s hit parade
Rain’s discography spans over two decades, with numerous albums and singles that have shaped K-pop and the Hallyu wave. Below is a list of his most notable music releases to add to your personal music library!
From the album It’s Raining, this global hit sold over a million copies across Asia, defining Rain’s dynamic performance style and propelling him to international fame.
“Ways to Avoid the Sun” (2003)
The title track from his second album How to Avoid the Sun, this emotional ballad showcased his vocal range and solidified his rising popularity.
From the mini-album Back to the Basic, this heartfelt ballad featuring actress Ha Ji-won in its music video showcased Rain’s softer side.
“Switch to Me” (2020)
A duet with J.Y. Park, this funky, upbeat track from the Rain x JYP collaboration showcased their chemistry and playful choreography, becoming a fan favorite for its retro-inspired vibe.
Originally from the mini-album My Life, this retro-inspired track went viral in 2020, leading to remixes with artists like Jay Park and Sik-K, reaffirming Rain’s relevance.
As part of the SSAK3 project group with Lee Hyo-ri and Yoo Jae-suk, this nostalgic summer hit captured Rain’s versatility in retro pop.
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