BTS unveiled a music video teaser for “2.0,” a track from its fifth LP “Arirang,” on Wednesday.
The teaser draws inspiration from director Park Chan-wook’s 2003 film “Oldboy,” offering a brief yet striking glimpse that has heightened anticipation for the full release.
Set in a worn-down corridor and elevator, the video opens with a narrow hallway filled with rough, intimidating figures. As the elevator doors open on the second floor, BTS members appear dressed in clean-cut suits, some holding newspapers while others carry unexpected props such as a back scratcher.
The newspaper headlines include phrases such as “The launch of a brand new 2.0 … complete strategy overhaul” and “Hidden code behind 2.0 discovered,” which reference the track’s title. They also nod toward the BTS’ transition into a new phase following a nearly four-year hiatus that brought the members growth and change.
The teaser comes to a close as a hand lowers the newspaper to reveal RM in sunglasses, his styling evoking the character Oh Dae-su in “Oldboy.”
“2.0,” a B-side on “Arirang,” builds on hip-hop and trap elements with an unconventional rhythm, serving as a nod to the group’s “BTS 2.0” era. The group has described the album as ushering in their newly updated musical identities, reflecting a fresh beginning, artistic growth and a renewed sense of direction.
On the Billboard Hot 100 chart dated April 4, “2.0” debuted at No. 50, along with 13 other tracks, including the lead track “Swim” at No. 1.
“Arirang” has dominated global charts since its release. Both the album and its lead track topped the Billboard 200 and Hot 100 charts simultaneously, marking the group’s first simultaneous No. 1 on both charts since 2020.
With their latest Billboard record, BTS now holds seven No. 1 hits on the Hot 100 chart and the Billboard 200 albums chart.
lee.jungjoo@heraldcorp.com
