5 Times BTS Were Brutally Honest About K-Pop Industry In Their Songs

Originating from a relatively small peninsular nation, K-pop has seemingly taken the world by storm. Hundreds of K-pop bands emerge every year, but only a few have gained universal fame. BTS is arguably the most renowned Korean musical act. However, while their music is generally regarded as pure entertainment, it often carries a deeper message.

Here are five BTS songs that throw shade at the music business.

1. Whalien 52

Although K-pop idols may appear universally adored by legions of fans and lead extravagant lives, they are still human. Unfortunately, people often overlook this fact and idolize the performers too much. One corollary of that is that pop idols are expected to maintain an image of perfection, which leaves no room for normal human emotions like sadness and loneliness. This song by BTS addresses this issue through the metaphor of a whale.

2. Honsool (by Agust D aka Suga)

In this song, BTS's Suga, also known as Agust D, openly talks about the loneliness that haunts him despite his fame. The artist doesn't hesitate to share his struggles with alcohol, which he resorted to as his only solace.

3. Not Today

This underdog anthem by BTS directly challenges the music business, accusing it of exploiting young talents who aspire to make a mark in the world. It's a song of resistance against the corporate greed that largely fuels the industry. Given that the band has experienced this first-hand, the message resonates even more powerfully.

4. Set Me Free (by Agust D aka Suga)

This song by Suga offers a glimpse into the industry, revealing the chaos surrounding him and other performers. The industry offers no respite, which can be suffocating for musicians who often end up developing various mental illnesses.

5. Fake Love

K-pop commands an enormous fan following. Millions of people idolize their favorite artists. However, their relationship with these performers is often extremely superficial. Fans see images, not the people behind them. This BTS song addresses this issue and the ways in which the industry capitalizes on fans' adoration.