BTS’ HYYH, Permission To Dance, Proof and more: Ranking world-renowned boy band’s concepts

Let’s walk down BTS memory lane and rank all the concepts by the record-breaking boy band. Keep on reading to open the BTS memory capsule.

Updated on Apr 23, 2024  |  09:17 PM IST |  152.4K
BTS; Image: BIGHIT MUSIC
BTS; Image: BIGHIT MUSIC

BTS aka Bangtan Sonyeondan is the boy band that changed the face of K-pop worldwide creating an image that would remain in hearts forever. BTS scripted history by garnering love and popularity beyond the barriers of language and country. 

The sensational group consisting of seven members is widely regarded as one of the key driving forces behind the Hallyu Wave phenomenon. Since their debut, BTS has consistently produced engaging music, with each album encompassing a unique theme and conveying a meaningful message.

Skool Luv Affair, Dark & Wild, HYYH, Butter, Proof and more: Ranking BTS’ concepts 

 

It is an undeniable truth that deciding between BTS albums and concepts is never easy, because each one is so special. From their debut album 2 Cool 4 Skool to their latest release Proof, BTS has managed to strike a chord with individuals across various periods and depths through their heartfelt and innovative concepts.

BTS explores a wide range of concepts, encompassing liberation from constraints, the challenges faced during adolescence, embracing self-love, and the consequences of overwhelming fame that makes it nearly impossible to rank them. Each concept holds significance for individuals in their own unique way. However, let's attempt to delve into these concepts once again.

15. Butter

 

BTS's Butter, released on May 21, 2021, marked a significant milestone in their career. This second English single propelled them to greater fame and showcased their evolution as pop icons. The concept of the song portrayed the members in a cool and funky era, with their bold jackets and irresistible charm.

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14. Dynamite 

Dynamite, BTS' inaugural English single, aimed to bring solace to people worldwide amidst the upheaval caused by the pandemic. Although the concept was emotionally resonant, it did not strive for grandiosity.

Immersing themselves in the everyday realities of the pandemic, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, V, Jimin, and Jungkook confronted it through the power of music. The music video's color palette, costumes, and overall atmosphere undoubtedly contributed to its excellence.

13. 2 Cool 4 Skool

BTS' debut album, 2 Cool 4 Skool, resonates with a nostalgic charm, evoking the edgy vibes of the 2010s era. The boys' bold makeup, black attire, and adorned with heavy jewelry transport us back to the golden age of rock.

The album's concept, rooted in hip-hop, fearlessly challenged the monotonous school system that stifles children's dreams. Remarkably, this concept continues to inspire and strike a chord with people even today.

12. Permission to Dance

Permission to Dance holds a special place when its concept comes to mind. First the single was released as part of Butter CD but later was again released as a stand-alone single on July 9, 2021. 

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Permission to Dance should be taken as a separate concept because this song was the best way to enter a COVID-free world. Filled with the heartwarming idea of dancing to your heart’s content and diving into positive energy after a long time of being cooped up.

A special part of Permission to Dance was the choreography by BTS that was designed keeping in mind deaf and dumb people. The idea they wanted the world to understand their message is just beautiful. 

11. Skool Luv Affair

Where does Skool Luv Affair stand today? It remains in the same place, discussing emotions, the abrupt shifts in life, and the future that teenagers encounter. Portraying the love that blossoms during school days, it may seem childish, yet it brims with overwhelming emotions.

Presented as rebellious youngsters who pursue love while standing on the cusp of adulthood and adolescence, BTS's songs Boy in Luv and Just One Day positioned them as rising forces in the music industry.

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10. O!RUL8,2?

A once-in-a-lifetime concept like O!RUL8,2? or Are You Late Too? was introduced by BTS, a group known for addressing topics that are often overlooked or ignored.

The album's message is clear: "Find your happiness and live your own life before it's too late." This resonates not only with young individuals trapped in the exhausting cycle of competition, but also with those who find themselves trapped in a perpetual state of sadness, forgetting to truly live.

The album presents a truly remarkable and unprecedented concept, with songs that delve into the harsh realities of life, evoking feelings of despair.

 


9. Dark & Wild

BTS' Dark & Wild album served as a pivotal moment in their journey from their school years to adulthood. While some may find the lead single, War of Hormone, to be controversial, it continues to be a beloved song that ARMYs enjoy jamming to.

Dark & Wild was a significant milestone for BTS as it explored the theme of love gone wrong, showcasing the dangers of anger, jealousy, and obsession.

The album encapsulated a bad-boy era filled with intense emotions, showcasing the group's versatility across various hip-hop genres. The impact of BTS during their dark and wild era should not be underestimated or forgotten.

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8. Wings 

Wings came soon after Dark & Wild with the concept of flying away into the world. Picture a chick who tries to push itself and learn to fly and you get Wings by BTS. 

The song collection of Wings album shows one of the best eras of BTS with unforgettable tunes like Blood Sweat & Tears, 21st Century Girl, BTS Cypher 4, and more. The concept of facing a new door with new possibilities, obstacles, and temptations is special. While experiencing pain they bring forth the images of breaking away and first flight. 


7. You Never Walk Alone

You Never Walk Alone works as the epilogues to Wings. It possesses the message of ‘We can laugh if we are together’, a letter of consolation and hope to this generation.

One of the most memorable concepts for its powerful Not Today and tear-jerking Spring Day. The confetti-filled smiles and boys sitting together at the bus stop will always be iconic. 

6. MAP OF THE SOUL: PERSONA

MAP OF THE SOUL: PERSONA serves as a bridge between BTS and their devoted fanbase, forging a strong connection. It carries a powerful message of love and embracing the world around us.

Through the chart-topping tracks Boy With Luv (ft. Halsey), Set It Right, Mikrokosmos, HOME, and Dionysus, this album marks a significant era where BTS delved into a profound exploration of their relationship with their fans. 

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5. BE

During the peak of the pandemic, BE was released, capturing the prevailing anxiety and fear in the world. Through this album, BTS aims to convey a message of hope to those feeling helpless.

BTS bravely expresses their own struggles, reassuring listeners that one day, we will emerge from this darkness and return to the life we once knew. Life Goes On serves as a reminder from BTS that despite the challenges, life continues moving forward.

4. Proof

Proof marked the release of BTS' album prior to their individual pursuits and military service enlistments.

The anthology series WE ARE BULLETPROOF serves as a significant milestone in the journey of BTS, allowing them to reflect on their past while also looking ahead to the future as a unified group.

3. MAP OF THE SOUL: 7

MAP OF THE SOUL: 7 delves deeper into the exploration of one's authentic identity. While the initial MAP OF THE SOUL by BTS explored how they were perceived by the world and the happiness of discovering love, this time they turn their focus inward to examine the shadow within.

MAP OF THE SOUL: 7 serves as a roadmap for BTS's journey, which was not always filled with sweetness and positivity. Through this concept, BTS gains a clearer understanding of life, embracing both the aspects of themselves they wish to reveal and those they despise. Ultimately, they strive to uncover their true and whole selves.

2. HYYH trilogy 

The HYYH or Hwa Yang Yeon Hwa or The Most Beautiful Moment in Life is a remarkable era where BTS skillfully unravels the most personal experiences.

From parts 1 and 2 to Young Forever, BTS embarks on a profound journey through the most beautiful moments in life. Part 1 explores the amalgamation of uncertainty and beauty as youth transitions into adulthood.


Part 2 delves into the idea of accepting insecurity and uncertainty while moving forward towards the future with passion burning inside. It reveals the harsh reality that life isn't always perfect, there may be setbacks, but BTS reassures with the words 'It's okay' - finding beauty in those moments.

Young Forever conveys the message that deep down, they will always hold onto their youthful spirit. The essence of their true selves, the innocence of youth, will forever be a part of who they are.

1. Love Yourself trilogy 

Love Yourself trilogy is based on the overarching concept of ‘Loving oneself is where true love begins’. From HER, TEAR to ANSWER this concept depicts different faces of love in BTS’ unique style. 

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HER symbolizes the complex emotions of both anxiety and elation that are intertwined with the experience of love. On the other hand, TEAR represents the inevitable sorrows and pains that come with love and separation. Lastly, ANSWER serves as the missing piece that completes the puzzle of understanding the essence of love. BTS, through their music, emphasizes the importance of self-love as the key to comprehending the true meaning of love. 

Within the Love Yourself series, TEAR stands out as a poignant journey filled with heartbreak, melancholy, and suffering. It captures the raw emotions that accompany the ups and downs of love. 

BTS and their music hold a special place in the hearts of fans, as they delve deeper into profound concepts and explore the deeper meanings of life. Their artistry remains iconic and continues to resonate with listeners worldwide.

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Credits: BIGHIT MUSIC
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Tanya, on this side of the screen, probably with a Bangtan Bomb and my K-pop playlist on the play.

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