BTS has infused their track '2.0' from their fifth studio album 'Arirang' with vibrant performances and a music video full of national pride. The video showcases the energy that fans have been missing, featuring BTS's signature synchronized choreography and polished visuals.
On November 2, BTS released the music video for '2.0' on their official YouTube channel. Within just 14 hours, the video amassed 10 million views and climbed to third place on YouTube's 'Trending Music' chart.
'2.0' is a track that might seem monotonous when listened to alone, as it primarily features just four notes: E3, D4, E4, and F#4. The song lacks significant variation between verses and the outro, with the word 'do' repeated 48 times in the chorus, all on the E4 note.
Despite being the fifth track on the album, '2.0' initially seemed less popular than the ninth track 'NORMAL', which ranked 41st on the same chart. On October 31, all 13 tracks with vocals from the album made it to the Billboard Hot 100, with '2.0' ranking 50th, the sixth highest among them.
However, the music video is expected to boost '2.0's popularity to rival that of the album's title track 'SWIM'. For fans nostalgic for BTS's powerful choreography, '2.0' might even surpass 'SWIM' as a favorite.
In the music video, BTS delivers a playful yet quintessentially K-Pop performance. The video opens with the members paying homage to Park Chan-wook's film 'Oldboy', donning 90s attire and acting with flair. Jimin and V appear with fake beards, while Jungkook humorously mimics actor Jung Woo-sung's signature eyebrow movements and expressions.
As the video transitions, the comedic tone fades, and BTS's synchronized dance begins. This performance highlights the precise choreography that first garnered them attention on the global stage. The members execute their moves flawlessly, maintaining perfect spacing as they shift formations.
The video further emphasizes this precision in the latter half. After changing into futuristic outfits, BTS dances to RM's rap, with each member's movements perfectly aligned. Their synchronized lateral movements, maintaining consistent spacing, provide a visually satisfying experience.
An industry insider commented, "The members showcased the 'K-Pop essence' that wasn't as evident musically in 'Arirang' through the music video. The biggest difference between American pop and the K-Pop system is control. The precisely coordinated dance moves and consistent visuals aligned with the concept are K-Pop's strengths, which are prominently displayed in this video."
By Min-Kyung Lee, TenAsia Reporter 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr