[Culture&] BTS Members Answering Questions, Korea's 'Arirang'... The Sincerity Captured in the Title Track 'Swim'

Global top artist 'BTS' is making their return to the music scene with the surprise release of their 5th studio album 'Arirang' on the 20th. This new album has gained 'immense attention' in the global music market by adopting a representative folk song of Korea as its title. 'BTS' stated, "The unique emotional essence of Korea is the 'core keyword' that binds the seven members together and represents our 'foundation'", expressing their pride in 'K-culture'. In particular, the album logo created by 'Jungkook', the incorporation of Korea's distinctive 'spirit' in the lyrics by 'J-Hope', and the track inspired by 'taekwondo' worked on by 'RM' maximized the 'authenticity' of the album through the members' full participation.

The core of this album is 'BTS''s 'distinctive color' and perfect balance with tradition. 'RM' emphasized, "Rather than following the fixed mold of tradition, we wanted to reinterpret it in our own sophisticated way to 'expand the musical spectrum'. 'Jimin' also added, "Based on a firm 'identity' as Koreans, we deeply contemplated the significant 'responsibility' and weight that the name 'Arirang' carries." Their philosophical pondering is expected to provide deep 'resonance' to the global audience, transcending simple K-pop.

The title track of the 5th studio album 'Swim' (SWIM) is a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of 'BTS'. 'Jungkook' expressed strong 'confidence', saying, "The lyrics and 'performance' showcase our current selves in the most transparent way." 'J-Hope' explained, "The detailed choreography represents rough waves or diving into the deep sea, creating a perfect synergy with the song's 'message'. All members conveyed their true hope that this song becomes a warm 'comfort' and a hymn of 'hope' for modern people who swim through the harsh reality every day.

Even in their position as a global 'pop icon', 'BTS''s 'original intention' remains steadfast. 'RM' stated, "In moments spent with the members, I return to my purest 'childlike mind'", demonstrating strong 'teamwork'. 'Suga' and 'V' also promised an unshakeable 'dedication' and burning 'passion' for the stage. Finally, they expressed their endless 'gratitude' towards the global 'ARMY' and assured that their limitless 'challenges' and 'musical journey' will continue.

[Below is A Q&A with BTS Members through Their Agency Full Text]

-- How were the 'Korean elements' included in the album decided?

▲ (RM) First, I threw out various ideas that came to mind. We have previously created a song based on taekwondo during our songwriting sessions. It didn't make it into the album, but personally, I quite liked it.

▲ (Jin·Suga) The album logo started from Jungkook's idea. As various opinions from the members were added, the current album concept was formed, and since all members are Korean, there was also a suggestion to naturally include Korean elements.

▲ (J-Hope) Korean spirit and culture were incorporated into the new lyrics. We tried to create more points where 'seven members could come together' in various parts. I think showing ourselves as we are when returning ultimately starts from the roots, and it's because our roots were solid that we exist as we are now.

▲ (V) All members offered many ideas and contemplated how to mix in our individualities. The 'ARMY' fans will surely enjoy discovering them one by one.

-- What was the standard when expressing 'Korean elements'?

▲ (RM) Rather than taking Korean elements as pre-defined molds, I wanted to unravel them naturally in our current way. I believe that the emotions are conveyed broader when we add appropriate variations and our interpretation. I wanted to bring 'Arirang', which can be interpreted in various ways, in a slightly different light and reinterpret it.

▲ (Jin·Suga) Instead of forcibly adding Korean elements, we focused on blending them in a way that feels like us. We aimed to balance it so that while preserving the Korean sentiment, BTS's color staying vivid.

▲ (J-Hope) I believe that balance and moderation are indeed important. However, I think showing boldly during significant moments can be even cooler. In this album and performance, I worked on ensuring that we portrayed the guideline of 'not excessive but clear at necessary moments'.

▲ (Jimin) We pondered our identity and the way we express ourselves throughout music and performance. This also made us rethink the background of all members being Korean. Therefore, I considered Korean elements as an important point. Especially since 'Arirang' is a word and folk song that Koreans have encountered countless times since childhood, I felt a burden and responsibility in choosing it as the album title.

-- What message do you want to convey through this album the most?

▲ (Jungkook) I hope you think that this is the most BTS-like album, as it contains each person's time and colors as they are.

-- Why did you choose 'Swim' (SWIM) as the title track?

▲ (Jungkook) It's a song that makes me feel increasingly that 'this is right' the more I listen to it. The lyrics also capture 'the current BTS' well, and the performance has new points that are different from before, so I hope you pay attention to that.

▲ (J-Hope) I worked to create a performance where the song is clearly audible even while watching the stage. There are details like movements expressing waves or points sinking quietly like diving. At first, I worried it might feel 'boring' among impactful songs, but as you listen to it, it blends naturally into the sound and becomes comfortable. It fits best with the theme we want to convey, which is why it was selected as the title track.

-- How would you like 'Swim' to be remembered by people?

▲ (All Members) Just like a song about life. We hope it's everyone's song, where we swim every day, splashing along, breathing in and out. It's a warm song that we'd like to become a source of strength for everyone as they live their lives. Moreover, just like 'Arirang' which has been passed down through generations, we hope 'Swim' will remain in many people's hearts for a long time.

-- If there's one thing that hasn't changed compared to the past.

▲ (RM) The moments with the members bring out my most favorite self. It's like the purity or childlike spirit of childhood. We often say that we have real fun when we are together. It's not easy to meet friends who feel like family.

▲ (Suga·V) Our passion and love for the stage won’t change.

▲ (Jimin) There will be difficulties every time we take on new challenges in the future. Therefore, we need to continuously think about what is right and make choices. Nevertheless, our attitude of not stopping and continuing to swim forward, just like 'Swim', will not change.

▲ (J-Hope·Jungkook) Our feelings for the 'ARMY' haven't changed. We are always grateful and love them.