방탄소년단, 정규 5집 '아리랑'으로 컴백
수록곡엔 '아리랑' 등 한국적 요소 담아
영어 타이틀곡, 앨범 정체성과 괴리
수록곡엔 '아리랑' 등 한국적 요소 담아
영어 타이틀곡, 앨범 정체성과 괴리
BTS Makes a Comeback with 'Arirang'
Global sensation BTS has made their much-anticipated return with the album 'Arirang'. The album title evokes a strong sense of Korean heritage, and the group has incorporated traditional Korean elements throughout the album. This includes the use of Korean language, traditional folk songs, and even dedicating a track to the sound of the Emile Bell. While the title track embraces a universal pop style for broader appeal, the album as a whole emphasizes Korean identity.
BTS released their fifth studio album 'Arirang' on October 20 at 1 PM, marking their first full-group comeback in three years and nine months. Big Hit Music describes 'Arirang' as an album that captures BTS's identity and universal emotions that many can relate to. The album was executive produced by Bang Si-hyuk.
Infusing Korean Identity Throughout the Album
In an industry where fans rarely explore beyond the title tracks, BTS has taken a bold step by releasing a full-length album with 14 tracks and a single title track. This decision reflects their confidence and commitment to showcasing their complete group dynamic without solo or unit tracks. The album is a welcome choice for fans eager to experience the full weight of BTS as a complete group.
The album reflects a deep consideration of Korean roots and identity. The opening track 'Body to Body' directly incorporates 'Arirang', blending hip-hop with traditional Korean music in a trendy manner. The second track 'Hooligan' showcases BTS's signature intensity and playfulness, while tracks like 'Aliens' and 'FYA' echo the rebellious spirit of BTS's earlier works. The album's latter half features songs that align more closely with BTS's current style, allowing listeners to experience the group's growth. Notably, the album features a significant amount of Korean lyrics.
Title Track 'SWIM' Leaves Mixed Impressions
The title track 'SWIM' is an alternative pop song that conveys a message of perseverance amidst life's waves. The song expresses a determination to swim forward at one's own pace, framed as a 'love for life'. Its easy-going progression makes it accessible to a wide audience. Aiming for the Billboard charts and global fandom, the lyrics are entirely in English.
However, the track's subdued sound and repetitive 'swim, swim' refrain may diminish its tension. Despite its short 2-minute and 39-second runtime, the song feels longer due to its monotonous progression, leading to a lack of engagement. The absence of BTS's distinctive color is particularly disappointing, as the Korean lyrics and past intensity are now only found in the album's other tracks.
Balancing Global Fandom and K-pop Identity
BTS emphasizes that Korean elements are the roots that bind the seven members together. However, this identity is not prominent in 'SWIM'. Last year's hit 'K-pop Demon Hunters' was praised for seamlessly integrating Korean lyrics into English-centric songs, achieving both global appeal and cultural identity. While the 'K-pop Demon Hunters' OST succeeded with this structure, BTS opted for a safer route.
J-Hope's participation in the 'Yellow Coin Collection Charity Event' in Paris demonstrated the potential success of Korean lyrics. During the event, J-Hope performed BTS's 'Mic Drop', and the local audience sang along to the Korean lyrics, showcasing K-pop's influence.
BTS has a history of incorporating Korean elements into their music, as seen in songs like 'Paldogangsan' (2013), 'Ma City' (2015), and 'IDOL' (2018). Given this background, expectations were high for the album 'Arirang' to reflect these elements in its title track. However, 'SWIM' falls short of these expectations.
As BTS continues to navigate the waves of life, their growth and evolving musical style are natural progressions. Yet, the gap between BTS as K-pop stars and global pop artists may require some adjustment time for fans.
Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr