If you’re already a fan of South Korean K-pop group BTS, then you’re no stranger to the fact that whenever awards season rolls around, they gain a whole new wave of fans. After all, given their mesmerising stage presence, it’s quite difficult not to notice them. In the midst of viral performances — say, their recent appearance on legendary MTV series MTV Unplugged — the Twitterverse, most especially, has been known to flood with questions like, “Who’s the guy with the pink mic? I need names!” and “I’m not a BTS stan, but after seeing that guy in the white suit, I may have to start now!”
And if that’s precisely how you find your way into joining the BTS ARMY (the name of their fandom, which stands for “Adorable Representative MC for Youth”), there’s absolutely no shame in that. (I mean, they’re pretty amazing to look at.) Beyond their ability to wow us on the stage, however, it’s the message behind their music that leaves us ARMYs here to stay.
Also read: This “Study With BTS” Video Is All the Motivation We Need to Get Through the Work Week
Before I ever found myself becoming a fan, I remember hearing so many people claiming that they “found BTS at the right time” — many even claiming that their music so much as saved them. “Well, that sounds nice,” I thought to myself (but not really getting how their music could be that moving). It was after watching my nth BTS-related video that I finally decided to search for English translations of their lyrics. And boy, did they hit me.
There are millions of ARMYs who’ve stood by BTS since they debuted in 2013; but it’s undeniable that they gained millions more during the pandemic. Finally, I learned why. Standing out among a sea of songs filled with meaningless lyrics and sexual innuendos, BTS’ songs speak of things we usually don’t hear much about — an absence of self-love, days we seem to be empty for no reason, and moments we feel like we would rather disappear.
Also read: 13 Relatable & Emotional Stages of Joining the BTS ARMY
At a time like this, where feelings of despair and emptiness come a lot more often than they used to, their songs have made many of us feel so seen — it’s no wonder so many people have found solace through their songs. In light of this, I share a playlist I’ve put together, along with some of the most comforting BTS lyrics that have touched my heart. I recommend listening to them while reading their English translations!
Disclaimer: I may or may not have started tearing up while putting this list together. If you’re feeling particularly emotional today, you might want to grab some tissues!
“Why do you keep trying to hide under your mask?
Even all the scars from your mistakes make up your constellation”
“Don’t disappear ‘cause you’re a big existence”
“It’s okay, come on, when I say one, two, three, forget it
Erase all sad memories, hold my hand and smile”
“You gave me the best of me
So you’ll give you the best of you
You’ll find it, the galaxy inside you”
“You who stand by me
In the dark night and in the dark day
When you are sad
When you are sick
Just shining on me
I will be by your side
More brightly in the dark night”
“Stopped for now but don’t hide in the shadow
The light will glow once again”
“While standing on this empty stage, I become afraid of this unpleasant emptiness
Within my suffocating feelings
On top of my life’s line
Without a reason, I forcibly act that I am fine
This isn’t the first time, I better get used to it
I try to hide it, but I can’t”
“When the minute and second hands overlap
The world holds its breath for a little while
Zero o’clock”
“Is it anxiety or depression?
Am I just an animal that regrets
Or is it me born out of loneliness?
I still don’t know, the ferocious blue
I hope I don’t get eaten away, I’ll find the exit”
“The morning will come again
No darkness, no season is eternal”
“Even if it’s tiring and painful, I will fly if I can”
“Maybe I, I can’t touch the sky
Still, I want to stretch my hand out
I want to run, just a bit more”
“One day it’ll certainly be a good day
You will not be alone, always
I’ll be by your side, we’ll be okay
If I’m with you, it’ll surely be brighter tomorrow”
“But it’s okay sometimes
To show weakness
It’s okay to be you
Don’t lie to yourself any more”
“I’m the one I should love in this world
Shining me, precious soul of mine”
Also read: This IG Shop Makes Scented Candles That Smell Like BTS & K-Drama Actors
I hope this playlist and these lyrics bring as much comfort to you as they have to me. On tough days, they really do feel like the warmest of hugs. If you have any more recommendations, I’d love to hear your favourites — please do share them in the comments section!
All images credited to HYBE Labels | Official YouTube Page
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