[Culture&] BTS 'Arirang', Animation Produced Based on the First Recording of 'Arirang' in Washington, D.C. in 1896

BTS has captured global attention by releasing a special animation video ahead of the release of their 5th studio album 'Arirang (ARIRANG)', which embodies the unique emotions of Korea. Their agency, Big Hit Music, unveiled the animation visually conveying the core message of the new album through their official SNS on the 13th.

The released video begins with seven young men winding the phonograph. As the melody of Korea's representative folk song 'Arirang' resonates, they cross the Pacific by boat, spreading Arirang to foreign lands. The scene then transitions to a modern-day backdrop, culminating in a powerful moment where BTS performs on stage amidst the cheers of countless fans, leaving a strong aftertaste.

This animation is inspired by the historical fact that 'Arirang' was first recorded in Washington, D.C. in 1896. It sheds light on a historical moment from the past while metaphorically expressing BTS's efforts to elevate the status of Korean culture worldwide today. Big Hit Music explained, "We aimed to convey the meaningful narrative surrounding Arirang to a global audience."

Meanwhile, BTS will simultaneously release their new album 'Arirang' worldwide on the 20th at 1 PM. Following that, they will hold a large-scale comeback performance in the Gwanghwamun area of Seoul on the 21st, which will be live-streamed globally through the online video service (OTT) Netflix.