K-pop comebacks or debuts are simply incomplete without their concepts. These concepts are more than mere shots or visuals. They are one of the most integral parts of the K-pop industry. An on-point concept can be the ladder to climb on the top of the charts; the wrong one can crash a comeback as soon as it is launched. Non-K-pop fans might wonder: What exactly are these ‘concepts’ in K-pop? Put simply, a concept is more than an ideation of an album, and albums are referred to as “comebacks” in K-Pop jargon.
A K-pop group or star makes a comeback every time they produce new music. And each return has a unique premise, implying a new subject. This theme pervades everything—the songs, their style, the photoshoots utilised for photo books and promotional material, and, in general, the group members’ public image. The fans are well aware that the most successful K-pop concepts are those that are diverse, and thought-provoking and deliver some eye-grabbing visual backgrounds and pin-worthy outfits, which make them stand out and leave a lasting effect.
One of the most loved and celebrated concepts on the K-pop radar is the BTS Love Yourself trilogy. These three albums were such a pivotal moment in the septet’s career. In this trilogy, BTS took a deeper dive into the journey of learning to love themselves. With lyrics such as “I dumped myself into the lake; I buried my voice for you” and “Have I lost myself, or have I gained you?”, the members projected the darker undertones. Not only was this concept a smash hit, but it also sparked a huge conversation around mental health among their fans and media.
K-pop concepts are evolving and idols are starting to showcase their unfiltered versions for fans with a slice of their life. So, here we are listing some of our favourite K-pop concepts so far:
Layover by V (BTS)
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Joining his fellow band member on the solo chart, Taehyung, aka V of BTS’ concept, is exactly what fans have figured him to have. His concept is a stunning treat, with little jazz vibes and his contemporary aesthetics. But he isn’t the star of these concept images; the real heart stealer is his pet dog, Yeontan. While Yeontan adorably steals the show, V appears in several of the photographs in a moody tone that alternates between black and white and colour shots, wearing anything from a plaid short suit to a comfy hoodie.
Queencard by (G)I-DLE
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The K-pop industry always comes under fire for its tone-deaf approach towards body positivity, but Queencard was written to shatter them. A hyper-pop-tuned feminist anthem celebrating womanhood and why it is important to celebrate our diversity. (G)I-DLE’s Queencard’s concept is about self-acceptance, self-love, and originality. It encourages listeners to embrace and love themselves for who they are, to enjoy their differences, and to be confident in their own skin. The song’s message is clear: anyone can be a ‘Queencard’ by sincerely loving and embracing themselves.
Indigo by RM (BTS)
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Given RM’s thoughtfulness, something must be concealed under the title of his solo album. He has stated several times that the colour that characterises himself is blue. This supports the initial notion that Indigo represents both Kim Namjoon as a person and BTS. Indigo, RM’s solo album, is a thorough and honest chronicle of his life, thoughts, and feelings from 2019 to 2022. The term alludes to a rich, warm blue. RM stated that he wanted it to be “an album that’s simple to put on at any moment, like when you’re out for a drive, having a shower, or riding a bike.” The concept visuals are in warm tones, referencing the lyrics and vibe of the tracklist. Billboard has also ranked Indigo as the 86th greatest album cover of all time.
D-Day by Suga
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Agust D’s (Suga’s solo stage name) D-Day is a trendsetter on its own. The concept images depict the BTS member’s many alternate personalities. He is shown sporting a black tuxedo in one shot. While another depicts him in more relaxed attire. It might represent the characters of his last two mixtapes. Agust D has a rougher exterior, like a local hooligan, with the tracks loaded with high-intensity wrath and the need to show the world his talent. D-2 also has sophisticated, skilful, deadly vibes, where the tunes state that the singer has realised his significance and doesn’t need to prove himself to the world since he is already King (Daechwita reference).
Super Shy by New Jeans
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New Jeans kickstarted this comeback day with the release of an eponymous introduction track for their upcoming album. The group collaborated with the famous cartoon character, the Powerpuff Girls. Super Shy’s vibe is a nod to old-school nostalgia but in a Gen Z tone with the group’s fresh worldview. The song is high on energy, distinguished by jersey club rhythms and a vivid, musical-style MV, highlighting the characteristics of its members. The song is an earworm as well as incredibly realistic, with lyrics about being too scared to approach a crush. Talk about 20’s movies.
Jack In The Box by J-Hope (BTS)
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J-Hope has always been a beam of sunshine and a source of happiness and optimism among BTS members and the Army, as we all know. While this has been going on for years, when the time comes for his solo album debut, J-hope feels it is finally time for him to share and accept what lies underneath his kind exterior. J-Hope thought there were more tales and messages he wanted to express and share with his followers. However, if he continued in the same manner, everything would become constrained, and he would be unable to convey all of the information effectively. That is why J-Hope chose to venture outside of his comfort zone. In this album, he crosses the line and accepts all the darkness inside him.
