DEX (born Kim Jin-young on June 9, 1995) is a South Korean actor, television host, and former Navy SEAL. Known for his military background and charismatic presence, he rose to prominence through reality television and variety shows before transitioning to acting.
Early life and education
DEX was born in Suncheon, South Jeolla Province, on June 9, 1995. He attended Suncheon Jeil High School and briefly worked as a swimming instructor after graduation.
Military service
In 2016, DEX enlisted in the Republic of Korea Navy's Special Warfare Flotilla, completing the rigorous UDT/SEAL training. He served four years as the youngest member of the elite ARK unit in the Special Mission Battalion, a counter-terrorism squad, and was honorably discharged in early 2020. His service inspired his stage name, initially "Endex" (short for "end of experience"), later shortened to DEX.
Career
Reality television and variety shows
DEX entered entertainment in 2021 as an instructor in the documentary "Toy Soldiers: Fake Men 2". He gained international attention as a contestant on Netflix's "Single's Inferno Season 2" (2022). His domestic breakthrough came with MBC's "Bloody Game 2" (2023), a survival show featuring viral athletic moments.He joined "Adventure by Accident Season 2" (2023), which led to a "Rookie of the Year" win at the 2023 MBC Entertainment Awards. DEX hosted "Single's Inferno Season 3" (2023) and launched "Dex's Fridge Interview" (2023–present), earning the Dong-A Award for hosting. Other roles include regular appearances on "Zombieverse" (2023–2024), "The Zone: Survival Mission Season 3" (2024), and guest spots on "Running Man" (2023). In 2024, he became Ducati Korea's first ambassador and debuted as a racer in the Superrace championship.
Acting
DEX debuted in the horror film and drama "Tarot" (2024) as Dong-in, followed by a cameo in "Bloodhounds Season 2" (2026). He played assassin Jung Hyun in ENA's "The Defects" (2025), receiving praise for action scenes but mixed reviews for delivery. He stars as the male lead in the Korea-Japan co-production "The Haunted House" (2026), a culinary fantasy romance based on Yoshimoto Banana's novel. Upcoming projects include "Child Shopping / i-Shopping" (TBA) and a rumored drama with Suzy.
Personal life
DEX maintains a YouTube channel, "덱스101" (DEX101), for vlogs. He remains with KTHD Studio, managed by a former UDT colleague, and emphasizes work-life balance.
Awards and nominations
- 2023: Best New Entertainer, 2nd Blue Dragon Series Awards ("Bloody Game 2"); Rookie of the Year and Best Couple, MBC Entertainment Awards ("Adventure by Accident"); Korea First Brand Award (Broadcaster).
- 2024: TIRTIR Popular Star Award, 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards.
Source
Wiki, Namu.
