BTS has stirred up an online debate after releasing their new single "Spring Day" on Feb. 13. Aside from its lyrics, netizens are pointing out particular scenes from the music video which they linked to Sewol ferry tragedy.
In an online forum, netizens particularly cited the scene where BTS members were sitting on top of a laundry pile. Some of them thought the picture symbolizes the tragic event that occurred three years ago.
"Okay, now I'm getting chilled [because] now I see the pile of clothes like a pile of dead bodies," a netizen wrote.
In 2014, hundreds of people, including students, died after Sewol ferry capsized off the coast of South Korea. Amid tragic event, several celebrities provided assistance to the survivors and bereaved families.
In fact, BTS and Big Hit Entertainment made a secret donation just last month to help the victims in their recovery from the tragic event. According to Soompi, the boy group and agency intended to keep the act a secret.
"They planned to keep the donation private because they believe that you don't make donations so that you can tell people about it," a source said, adding that BTS suggested making the donation.
Reports stated BTS members shared 10 million won each, while Big Hit Entertainment provided 30 million won. The two accumulated 100 million won (85,000 USD) which was given to the Sewol Ferry Disaster 416 Family Council.
When asked about commemorating the tragic event through their music, Rap Monster admitted they are watchful when it comes to that subject. "To speak frankly, we're cautious of speaking of the Sewol incident," he said as per Korea Joongang Daily.
However, the BTS member thought they should empathize with the victims and their families as Korean citizens. Despite that, Rap Monster added that he will let the fans critic their "Spring Day" song.
"Listeners and watchers [of the music video] can have various interpretations," the idol said.
Watch the official music video of "Spring Day" below:
