Lee Jinki (이진기), born December 14, 1989 , better known by his stage name Onew (온유). He was born in the city of Gwangmyeong (광명; 光明), Gyeonggi-do. The leader and oldest member in the group, he was discovered at the "2006 S.M. Academy Casting".[36] Onew collaborated with Lee Hyun Ji, former member of project group Banana Girl, for his song "Vanilla Love".[37] He was also featured in a duet, entitled One Year Later "1년 後", with Girls' Generation member Jessica for their mini-album Tell Me Your Wish.[38]
Kim Jonghyun (김종현), born April 8, 1990 , commonly known as Jonghyun, is the main vocalist in the group.[39] He was born and raised in Seoul (서울; 特別). He was discovered at the "2005 S.M. Casting System".[36] Before debuting with Shinee, Jonghyun sang a duet, "Wrongly Given Love" (交错的爱), with Zhang Liyin for her debut Chinese album I Will.[36]
Kim Kibum (김기범), born September 23, 1991 , better known by his stage name Key (키), is one of the rappers in the group.[36] He was born and raised in Daegu (대구; 大邱). He was a gifted varsity water-skier at Dae Gu Young Shin Middle School.[40] He was discovered at the "2005 S.M. National Tour Audition Casting".[36] Before debuting with Shinee, Key appeared in Super Junior's Wonder Boy MV as an extra dancer. Key was featured in label-mate Xiah's solo "Xiahtic".[41]
Choi Minho (최민호), born December 9, 1991 , commonly known as Minho, is the other rapper in group. He was born and raised in Incheon (인천; 仁川). He was discovered at the "2006 S.M. Casting System".[36] Before debuting with Shinee, Minho modeled for Ha Sang Baek's "Seoul Collection F/W 08-09" in March.[29] He has also appeared in Girls' Generation's music video "Gee".[42]
Lee Taemin (이태민), born July 18, 1993 , commonly known as Taemin, is the main dancer of the group.[39] He was born and raised in Seoul (서울; 特別). He is the youngest member in group. He was discovered at the "2005 S.M. Open Weekend Audition Casting ".[36]
