Jimin Turned Down His Dad's Dream of Him Studying Law—His Dad's Reaction Melted Fans' Hearts

In many Asian countries, especially South кσяєα, parents often play a major role in shaping their children’s future. Many families tend to arrange almost everything for their children, from education and career paths to even marriage, believing that they know what is best for them. In such an environment, going against their parents’ expectations is clearly not easy for children.

Notably, around a decade ago, professions such as lawyers, doctors, and university professors were highly valued in the eyes of кσяєαns for their stability, income, and social status. Meanwhile, being an idol was not held in as high regard and was considered a risky career choice. After all, even after debuting, there was no guarantee that they would become famous or successful, while the entertainment industry itself could be extremely complicated. Therefore, most parents wanted their children to pursue more traditional and stable careers rather than become idols.

Interestingly, Jimin once found himself at the intersection of both of these pressures when his father gave him career advice. What made the situation different—quite unlike the strict parenting often seen among кσяєαn parents—was Jimin’s father’s open-mindedness and warm response after his son chose not to follow his expectations.

Specifically, in an interview, Jimin revealed that his father wanted him to become a prosecutor or a lawyer. He recalled: “My dad wanted me to become a prosecutor or a lawyer, but when I was in high school, I told them I wanted to make music, he agreed straight away. He even takes me to auditions (by driving). I think it's all thanks to my dad that I was able to get this far.”

Fans also discovered that Jimin’s account matched what his father had previously shared in an interview with a local newspaper. He once admitted: “Truthfully, because he was also good at math and science, I wanted him to go to a science high school and study more.” Given Jimin’s intelligence, he believed his son could go far academically and become a talented prosecutor or lawyer.

However, that did not mean he opposed his son’s wishes, especially after reading Jimin’s essay about his future dreams. The essay Jimin’s father referred to was written when he was in middle school. In it, Jimin wrote that he wanted to attend Busan High School of Arts to study dance, then combine that background with music to become a singer or celebrity. “Because his paper about his future was so perfect (laughs), I couldn’t oppose it and decided to respect his decision. Jimin used honorific speech since he was young and was quite an adult-like child so I allowed him to do as he pleased,” he said.

Jimin’s father not only recognized his son’s dream early on but also supported him, accompanied him, and remained a strong source of support even when Jimin chose not to follow his father’s plans for him. For example, because Jimin was so talented in contemporary dance, one of his teachers once objected to his dream of becoming an idol instead of pursuing a career as a professional dancer. At that time, Jimin’s father stepped in and persuaded the teacher on his son’s behalf. In the end, everyone came around to support and help Jimin pursue his ultimate dream.

What makes this story so touching to fans is not only that Jimin’s father allowed his son to pursue his dream, but also the way he trusted him even when that choice was completely different from what he had originally hoped for. Yet that trust did not come from simply being permissive. It was based on Jimin’s father understanding his son’s personality, abilities, and determination. Jimin was not someone who made an impulsive decision, either. He had a clear direction from an early age, worked hard, remained persistent in pursuing his choice, accepted the difficulties along the way, and gradually proved that he could make it.

And in the end, the results did not let his family down. Jimin has now become one of the most famous artists in the world, making his parents—and everyone around him—proud of him!

As the story spread, fans left numerous comments expressing their gratitude toward Jimin’s parents and admiration for the close family bond he shares with them: "Their parents knew about the potential he has; in any career he would have succeeded", "The importance of growing up in a present and supportive family that backs everything you do. They have made Jimin into an extraordinary adult", "And we are so grateful to your parents for sharing such a beautiful soul with the world!!", "Jimin really has the sweetest dad", "His dad believed in him from day one. This family bond is truly heartwarming", "Thank you dad. No wonder Jimin grew up so well",...