- Cocona, a member of the J-pop and R&B group XG, publicly announced on their 20th birthday that they identify as Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB) transmasculine and non-binary.
- In an emotional message shared on XG’s Instagram, Cocona explained that the label of female never truly represented them and that they live in a way that feels more masculine.
- The rapper also disclosed that they underwent top surgery earlier this year, a procedure to create a more traditionally masculine chest.
- Cocona expressed gratitude to their fellow XG members, the group’s producer Simon Jakops, and their parents for their support in their journey of self-acceptance.
- The announcement comes amidst a generally conservative cultural landscape in South Korea regarding gender identity and sexuality, with the article referencing other K-pop idols who have faced challenges after coming out.
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