NBA YoungBoy, the American rapper known for his distinct style, has made headlines recently by announcing his permanent relocation to South Korea. The artist, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden and who is a father to 13 children, stated that his family remains his top priority, even as he embarks on this new chapter so far from home.
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In a recent appearance on the podcast Open Thoughts with host Funny Marco, NBA YoungBoy shared the motivations behind his decision to move. When asked why he selected South Korea, he jokingly remarked that the country was “out the way,” but quickly added that the atmosphere drew him in. “It’s very safe here and very clean,” he explained, highlighting his newfound appreciation for his surroundings.
The rapper’s move comes with the knowledge that he is leaving behind an entire life in the United States. This shift not only requires adjusting to a new culture but also introduces considerable distance between him and his children. However, he is adamant that his family will remain a central focus in his life. He stated, “There’s nothing there for me at all. The most important thing is probably my kids,” emphasising that travel is always an option for family visits, saying, “That’s what they have planes for.”
NBA YoungBoy’s transition to life in South Korea follows a tumultuous period marked by legal troubles. He served time on weapons-related charges and was sentenced to 23 months in federal prison in December 2024. Following his release in March 2025, where he received credit for time already served, he faced additional home confinement as part of his sentence.
In May 2025, the rapper received a pardon from former President Donald Trump, a move that significantly altered the trajectory of his life. Grateful for the intervention, NBA YoungBoy publicly thanked Trump, stating, “I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building — as a man, as a father, and as an artist.” This pardon appears to have played a pivotal role in inspiring his move abroad, allowing him the freedom to explore new opportunities.
While some might worry about the impact of living so far from his children, NBA YoungBoy appears resolute in his decision. His commitment to his family is clear, and he seems confident that the distance will not hinder his relationship with them. Instead, he frames it as an opportunity to grow while relying on modern travel options to maintain contact with his family.
As he settles into his new environment, NBA YoungBoy’s fans are eager to see how this change might influence his music and artistic expression. With the fresh start in South Korea, there is potential for the rapper to draw inspiration from his experiences abroad, which may lead to a new direction in his works.
NBA YoungBoy’s move also highlights broader discussions regarding the challenges faced by public figures dealing with personal struggles and the pursuit of a better life. As many artists grapple with their past decisions, his choice to relocate and start anew underscores a desire for personal growth and family-centred living, particularly following significant life changes.
Overall, NBA YoungBoy’s journey is a testament to resilience and the quest for a safe and nurturing environment for himself and his children. His departure from the United States not only marks a significant life change but also resonates with his ongoing commitment to family and self-improvement. As he navigates this uncharted territory, fans and observers alike will be watching closely, eager to witness this evolution both personally and professionally.