The Boyz’ Eric is besties with K-pop idols in Seventeen, Got7 and Stray Kids – 5 things you might not know about the group’s LA boy as he turns 20

The Boyz’s Son Young-jae, a.k.a Eric, is more than just the South Korean boy band’s youngest member, or maknae. He brings his “A game” on and off stage, showcasing powerful rap and dance skills while performing, and letting loose his inimitable charm on variety shows and at fan events.

Eric is part of the group’s “English Line” with Canadian members Kevin and Jacob, as he was raised mainly in Los Angeles. He is also known for being a social butterfly, befriending other K-pop idols such as Got7’s Mark (also from LA), Stray Kids’ ‘00-liner Felix, AB6IX’s Lee Dae-hwi, TRCNG’s Hohyeon and Jihun, and Seventeen’s Mingyu.

One of two Capricorns in the group, Eric is turning just 20 years old (21 in Korea) on December 22. As the idol is busy prepping for his and The Boyz’s upcoming participation in Mnet’s Kingdom in 2021, here are some things you should know about the group’s Gu Jun-pyo (an affectionate nickname taken from the lead character played by Lee Min-ho in the K-drama, Boys Over Flowers).

In an exclusive interview with STYLE earlier this year, Eric revealed that he played the violin for five years while he was in the US and has yet to show fans his talent. He played the instrument for some time in middle school before returning to South Korea to pursue his idol career. Hopefully, we get to see him play soon!