Summary (tl;dr)

Rapper NBA YoungBoy has confirmed in a recent interview filmed in South Korea that he has permanently relocated there, citing the country's safety and cleanliness, and has no plans to return to the United States. He also revealed he is taking a break from music due to a heart condition.

Essential Background

NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, rose to prominence as a prolific American rapper with a significant fanbase despite a history of legal challenges in the United States. He faced multiple arrests and federal charges over the years, including a federal weapons offense. In 2025, he received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, which lifted his probation restrictions, after which he began traveling internationally following a period of house arrest in Utah.

The Full Story

In an interview with Funny Marco for his "Open Thoughts" podcast, which was conducted in South Korea, NBA YoungBoy announced his permanent move to the East Asian country. He expressed that he finds South Korea "very safe here and clean" and likes that it is "out the way," confirming that he intends to never return to the US to live, though he might visit as a tourist. During the same conversation, the 26-year-old rapper also disclosed that he is stepping back from recording and releasing new music due to a swollen left side of his heart, stating he has only one or two albums and one more tour left in his career. This interview has garnered significant attention, with reports indicating over 2 million views on YouTube.

Why It Matters

This trend is significant as it marks a pivotal moment in the life and career of one of hip-hop's most streamed and influential artists. NBA YoungBoy's decision to leave the US permanently due to perceived safety and a desire for a fresh start, coupled with his health revelations and plans to reduce his musical output, has surprised many fans and ignited widespread discussion among his global following. It underscores the personal toll of legal troubles and the impact of health on an artist's career trajectory, highlighting a major shift for a rapper who has consistently topped charts and built an incredibly loyal fanbase.

Geographic Location

• South Korea (interview location and declared new permanent residence)
• Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, United States (NBA YoungBoy's hometown)
• Utah, United States (previous location of house arrest)