Art is about exploring the deepest depths of human creativity in all its forms, and for me, that often means taking in a wide variety of sources for inspiration. From overheard conversations to music videos of the K-pop variety, art has the ability to transport us to new and exciting worlds. One thing I particularly love about the K-pop music video scene is the way in which it captures and conveys so many ideas and stories, much like a flash fiction film. These videos are often bold, maximalist, and theatrical, and I find them to be incredibly entertaining and inspiring.
I’m particularly drawn to the speculative concepts that are prevalent in K-pop music videos. Whether it’s exploring alternate realities or delving into the afterlife, these videos never fail to get my imagination churning. I enjoy contemplating the possibilities presented in these videos, as they often raise thought-provoking questions about the nature of our existence and the world around us.
One of my favorite K-pop videos is “Halazia” by ATEEZ (2022), which presents a post-apocalyptic dystopia with a unique narrative that leaves many elements open to interpretation. The floating orb in the video is particularly intriguing to me, as it sparks my imagination and encourages me to fill in the missing pieces of the story. Similarly, “Error” by VIXX (2014) tells a compelling science fiction tragedy about love, defiance, and cyborgs, reminding me that even the most futuristic concepts still require a human core of yearning and grief.
But it’s not all about bleak futures and technologically-driven narratives in K-pop videos. There are also plenty of supernatural and paranormal themes to be explored. I find myself drawn to the classic elements of ghost stories and eerie settings, as well as ideas that challenge our perceptions of what makes a monster a monster. These videos invite us to consider the world from the perspective of the things that go bump in the night, offering a fresh and intriguing viewpoint.
When it comes to horror, I’m fascinated by the subversion of familiar tropes and the exploration of unanswered questions. Videos like “Married to the Music” by SHINee (2015) and “Peek-A-Boo” by Red Velvet (2017) present clear, compact premises surrounded by unanswered questions that allow viewers to imagine their own terrible answers. Whether it’s comedy, horror, or a combination of both, the unexpected shifts in these videos never fail to captivate my imagination.
Overall, K-pop music videos are a rich source of inspiration for me, offering a diverse range of speculative concepts and storytelling styles. They provide endless fodder for the imagination, inviting us to explore new worlds, question our perceptions, and embrace the unexpected.
