방탄소년단 오늘(20일) 컴백
한국적 요소로 일곱 명 묶어
BTS 2.0으로 새로운 시작
한국적 요소로 일곱 명 묶어
BTS 2.0으로 새로운 시작
Global sensation BTS is set to release their highly anticipated fifth studio album, 'ARIRANG', on October 20 at 1 PM. This marks their first new album in three years and nine months since June 2022. The album, which encapsulates BTS's identity and universal emotions, is produced by Bang Si-hyuk.
The album features 14 tracks, including the title track 'SWIM'. BTS has infused their genuine experiences and reflections from their journey into each song. Through their label Big Hit Music, BTS shared insights about the album and their activities.
Q. How do you feel about making a comeback after 3 years and 9 months?
Group: We are excited and nervous, but above all, deeply moved. Just being able to come together as seven members again is a joy and a blessing. We've prepared thoroughly to meet the expectations of ARMY, who have waited patiently. The fact that we can present ourselves in a positive light again is a source of immense joy and happiness. While there is some fear due to the long gap, being with the members and ARMY alleviates any major concerns.
Q. What is the main message you want to convey with this album?
Suga: We focused on what makes us truly ourselves, rather than delivering a grand message.
Jimin: I wanted to convey the idea of moving forward. There's always pressure to present something new and better, along with countless worries. Despite that, we wanted to express our determination to keep swimming forward.
Jungkook: We captured each member's time and essence, resulting in an album that truly represents BTS.
Q. How were the 'Korean elements' in the album decided?
RM: We brainstormed various ideas. During a songwriting session, we even created a song based on Taekwondo. Although it didn't make it to the album, I personally liked it. Korean elements are crucial as they connect us to our roots. The definition of what is 'Korean' is constantly evolving, and we find it exciting to be part of that flow.
Jin/Suga: The album logo originated from Jungkook's idea. As we incorporated various opinions from the members, the album's concept took shape, and we naturally included Korean elements since all members are Korean.
J-Hope: We infused Korean culture and spirit into the lyrics. We aimed to create more points where all seven members could come together. Returning to our roots is essential, as it forms the foundation of who we are today.
V: All members contributed ideas and worked to incorporate their individuality. ARMY will enjoy discovering these elements.
Q. What criteria did you use to express 'Korean elements'?
RM: Instead of sticking to a fixed definition, we wanted to express it naturally in our way. We believe that when subtle variations and our interpretations are added, the sentiment is conveyed more broadly. We wanted to reinterpret 'Arirang' in a new way.
Jin/Suga: We focused on naturally incorporating Korean elements while maintaining BTS's distinct color.
J-Hope: Balance and restraint are important, but we also wanted to boldly showcase certain moments. We aimed to highlight the 'not too much, but impactful when needed' approach in the album and performances.
Jimin: We contemplated our identity and how to express ourselves authentically. Being all Korean members, we emphasized Korean elements. Choosing 'Arirang' as the album title carried a sense of responsibility, as it's a word and folk song familiar to all Koreans.
Q. Why did you choose 'SWIM' as the title track?
RM: We spent a lot of time deliberating on the title track. We tried for a month to create a song that surpassed 'SWIM', but it wasn't easy. When I first heard it, it felt like Pyongyang cold noodles—simple yet comforting. The more I listened, the more I wanted to 'swim together'.
Jin: It's not a song that grabs you immediately, but it has a lasting impact. The rhythm point in the middle of the song is memorable. Listening to it makes time fly.
J-Hope: We focused on creating a performance where the song is clearly heard. There are details like wave-like movements and moments of calmness. Initially, I worried it might feel dull among stronger tracks, but it blends naturally with the sound. It aligns well with our message, making it the perfect title track.
V: Amidst strong-sounding tracks, 'SWIM' felt the most straightforward. Initially, it didn't seem stimulating, but over time, it felt like a song you could listen to repeatedly.
Jungkook: The more I listened, the more it felt right. The lyrics reflect 'the current BTS', and the performance offers new points of interest.
Q. How do you want 'SWIM' to be remembered by people?
Group: We hope it's remembered as a song about life. A song for everyone swimming through life, taking breaths one at a time. It's a warm song that we hope provides strength in people's lives. Like 'Arirang', we hope 'SWIM' remains in people's hearts for a long time.
Q. What new challenges did you take on with this album?
Group: The album is solidly constructed. We focused on expanding genres, sounds, and vocal expressions. We tried unfamiliar genres and incorporated expressions we hadn't used before. 'FYA' features hyper-jersey-based sounds with raw energy, while 'Like Animals' and 'Merry Go Round' have a psychedelic texture. We also made subtle changes, like adjusting the recording to sound more relaxed. While it's hard to say we're 100% satisfied, we're content with our ongoing evolution.
Q. Behind-the-scenes of the Los Angeles songwriting session
Suga: We lived together while working on songs. We shared meals and conversations daily, and spent leisure time in our own ways. We often reminisced about our early days.
J-Hope: Some days were productive, while others were challenging. We supported each other and took care of our well-being. The process of creating an album while living together felt new.
Jimin: Right after debut, we talked about making an album together someday. Having all seven of us in a songwriting session was meaningful.
V: After exercising, I was inspired by a theme and immediately sang it. The response was positive, and it became the last track, 'Into the Sun'.
Jungkook: With over 100 demo tracks, the process of listening to them together was memorable. Some songs were new to us, and it was a fun experience. It was simply joyful and happy.
Q. What does 'BTS 2.0' mean to each of you?
RM: It's hard to define with one word, but it's close to 'balance'. Reuniting as seven members is one half, and moving forward and evolving is the other half. It's challenging but equally rewarding and fun.
Jin: We need to become more mature. We need to think more seriously and grow in every aspect. I want to work harder.
Suga: It's a 'new beginning'.
J-Hope: It's about growing as artists. Expressing ourselves freely and showing maturity is the start of '2.0'.
Jimin: Rather than attaching grand meanings, it's about continuing to strive and grow, as we've always done.
V: It's a story of growth. While there are new beginnings, it's also a chance to showcase our experiences and growth on stage.
Jungkook: It's literally 'something new'. It signifies a new direction. I want to start with a fresh mindset.
Q. One thing that hasn't changed compared to the past
RM: I feel most like myself when I'm with the members. It's like the innocence and childlike wonder from our youth. We often say that being together is genuinely fun. It's rare to find friends who feel like family.
Jin: If anything, our bond has grown stronger. The natural laughter and playful atmosphere remain. We still go out to eat together at new places.
Suga/V: Our passion for the stage and love for performing won't change.
Jimin: There will always be challenges with new endeavors. We must continue to ponder what's right and make choices. However, our determination to keep swimming forward, like in 'SWIM', will remain unchanged.
J-Hope/Jungkook: Our feelings for ARMY remain unchanged. We're always grateful and love them.
Q. A message to ARMY
Group: We sincerely thank ARMY for waiting for us. We missed you too, and being together as seven members again is invaluable. We'll meet you through music, performances, the upcoming world tour, and various activities. Enjoy it comfortably and get ready to have fun together. We've prepared many stages to enjoy together, so let's have fun. We truly love you.
BTS will embark on active promotions with the release of their new album. On October 20 at 2 PM, they will host a comeback group live 'STUDIO NOTES | ARIRANG' on the global superfan platform Weverse. The following day, October 21 at 8 PM, they will hold 'BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE｜ARIRANG' at Gwanghwamun Square.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr
Related topics: BTS, comeback, ARIRANG