You love K-pop, but do you ever feel overwhelmed by all the unfamiliar terms?
This blog is here to help! We break down tricky K-pop terms in a simple and friendly way, especially for beginners.
Today’s topic is the “Fake Maknae” — the unofficial youngest member of a group.
We’ll explain how it’s different from a regular maknae and share some famous idols often called fake maknaes!
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What Is a “Fake Maknae”?
In Korean, maknae means the youngest in a group → Read this article.
The youngest members in K-pop groups are often known for being cute or playful, right?
A fake maknae is someone who isn’t actually the youngest — but acts adorably, plays around, or gives off a cute, baby-like vibe.
They’re usually older members who fans and other members jokingly treat like the maknae.
And it’s not an official role!
Nobody assigns a fake maknae — it just naturally happens when fans or groupmates start calling someone that.
(That’s why opinions vary — and that’s part of the fun!)
Why Do Older Members Seem Like the Youngest?
So why do some idols seem like maknaes when they’re not?
It often comes down to their personality or family background.
Take Taeyong from NCT, for example.
He’s the leader of the massive NCT group (over 25 members!) and a reliable presence —
but in his personal life, he’s actually the youngest in his family and naturally likes to be cared for.
So even though he’s responsible as a leader, you’ll often see him being sweet and clingy in variety shows or off-stage clips.
Other fake maknaes just have naturally soft personalities, love being spoiled, or have a goofy, airheaded charm that makes them feel like the group’s baby — even if they’re technically older.
Famous Fake Maknaes in K-pop
Jin (BTS)
When it comes to BTS, the official maknae is, of course, the legendary golden maknae Jungkook .
→ Why jungkook is called ‘golden maknae’?
But Jungkook is almost too perfect — he doesn’t fit the usual image of a cute or childish youngest.
Instead, it’s Jin, the oldest member, who often steals the “fake maknae” spotlight.
He’s known for his slightly clumsy dancing, dad jokes, and his playful energy.
Even though he’s the eldest, fans adore his soft and silly personality.
Mingyu (SEVENTEEN)
SEVENTEEN’s maknae is Dino — smart and dependable.
Mingyu, on the other hand, is tall and mature-looking, but once he opens his mouth, it’s chaos.
He’s super goofy, often teased by other members (in a loving way, of course).
That’s why many fans and members call Mingyu SEVENTEEN’s fake maknae.
Renjun (NCT DREAM)
The actual maknae of NCT DREAM is Jisung — calm, thoughtful, and responsible.
Renjun, on the other hand, is smaller, cuter, and often acts a little spoiled (in an adorable way).
He’s also frequently doted on by the other members.
Renjun himself once said he’s basically the group’s maknae, and the members seem to agree!
Nayeon (TWICE)
TWICE’s official maknae is Tzuyu, who is elegant and quiet — not the typical playful youngest.
Instead, Nayeon, the group’s center, often shows sweet, baby-like behavior off stage.
Her bunny-like visuals and her natural charm make her feel like the group’s little sister, even though she’s the eldest.
Members often treat her like their fake maknae!
Wonhee (ILLIT)
Even the newly debuted group ILLIT from HYBE has a fake maknae — Wonhee, the center.
Her baby-faced visuals and innocent expressions have quickly earned her the nickname among fans.
She may not be the youngest, but she totally gives off the youngest vibe!
Related Terms: Maknae, Maknae Line, and Golden Maknae
Curious about more maknae-related terms? Check out these articles:
What Does “Maknae” Mean?
Not sure what a maknae is in the first place? → Read this basic guide.
What Is the “Maknae Line”?
Heard of maknae line or maknae-ra on social media?
This article explains the meaning and lists famous examples→ Read this basic guide.
Who Is the Golden Maknae?
It’s Jungkook from BTS — but why is he called golden?
Learn more here → Read this basic guide.
Final Thoughts: Why Fake Maknaes Are So Loved
Fake maknaes are a special part of K-pop culture.
While official maknaes are easy to spot (they’re the youngest), fake maknaes are more subtle —
only fans who follow closely will notice who gets spoiled, who acts extra cute, or who just has that “baby of the group” vibe.
Idols like Mingyu and Nayeon are beloved partly because of this contrast:
They seem cool and confident on stage, but fans know their softer, adorable side.
That contrast makes them all the more lovable.
Who’s the fake maknae in your favorite group?
Let us know in the comments!
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