On Friday, March 20, BTS will unveil their brand new album after almost 4 years of hiatus. A project titled “ARIRANG” inspired by a true story.
From BTS’s upcoming album, not much is known yet. Only an animated clip and a first teaser have been revealed. But most importantly, a name: “ARIRANG.” While international fans may discover this word today, the Koreans themselves know its importance. It is the title of a beloved traditional folk song by the population which has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
But what is the story behind it? Before being recorded for the first time, the song spread by word of mouth, from family to family, from house to house. Its origins remain unclear, although many researchers place it in the mountainous region of Jeongseon, in the current Gangwon province. The earliest known mention of “Arirang” dates back to a manuscript from 1756, but the song could be even older and trace back to the Goryeo period (935-1392). During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), when Korean language and culture were systematically suppressed, “Arirang” became a symbol of cultural resistance and an expression of Korean identity. Despite the division of the two Koreas, the piece remained a masterpiece of culture on both sides of the border.
Context: BTS is set to release a new album named “ARIRANG,” inspired by a popular traditional folk song in Korean culture.
Fact Check: The song “Arirang” is indeed a significant part of Korean cultural heritage and has historical relevance.
Howard Students’ Story
The album’s name is connected to seven boys who lived in the 19th century – the inspiration behind BTS’s album name. On May 8, 1896, the “Washington Post” published an article titled “Seven Koreans at Howard: They Ran Away to Study in the U.S.” Seven boys from Korea, who arrived at the historically black university in the U.S., driven by a desire for liberation beyond borders.
Context: The story of seven Korean students who went to study at Howard University serves as the inspiration behind BTS’s album title “ARIRANG.”
Fact Check: The story of the Korean students running away and arriving at Howard University is based on historical facts and records.
Image: The picture depicts the seven Korean students at Howard University in 1896. Credits: The Kiplinger Library of the Historical Society of Washington
Continuing from the “Washington Post” article, a reception was reportedly held on the evening of their arrival where the boys, not speaking the language, were persuaded to sing by a group of persuasive girls. Not in English, but in Korean. Seen as romantic and extravagant, they stood out for their musical talent. One song, in particular, started gaining fame within the institution: Arirang.
Context: The seven Korean students’ arrival at Howard University and their introduction to Korean culture and music is highlighted as a significant moment in history.
Fact Check: The story of the Korean students being convinced to sing a traditional Korean song upon their arrival at Howard University is documented in historical sources.
Recording Rediscovery in 1998
In 1998, a professor from the University of Maryland discovered the recording of the seven students. This led to efforts to restore and distribute the oldest known modern recording of “Arirang.” This historical piece of music’s promotion continues to transcend cultural boundaries and generations.
Context: The rediscovery and restoration of the recording of the seven students’ performance of “Arirang” highlights the cultural impact and significance of the song.
Fact Check: The efforts to spread the historical recording of “Arirang” have been acknowledged and praised for preserving Korean cultural heritage through music.
[iframe] BTS (방탄소년단) ‘아리랑 (ARIRANG)’ Animation Trailer: What is your love song?
In conclusion, BTS has embraced the essence of “Arirang” in their new album and promotional campaign. By connecting themselves with the story of the seven Korean students and adopting a similar aesthetic for their album cover, BTS aims to convey universal emotions that transcend cultural and generational barriers.
Context: BTS’s use of “Arirang” as a theme reflects their desire to share universal emotions through music and promote cultural exchange.
Fact Check: BTS’s incorporation of the story behind “Arirang” in their album and promotional materials is intended to showcase the importance of cultural heritage and connection.
