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On November 29, 2024, Nike Korea Creative Director Tae Hoon Lee (@typhoon0705) shared Winter Ahead, a duet by BTS' Taehyung and Park Hyo-shin, on his Instagram story. This jazz ballad was pre-recorded and filmed by the BTS idol before he enlisted in the South Korean military in December 2023.
Additionally, professional golfer Danielle Kang, Compose Coffee AD director Yu Kwang-Goeng, and singer Lea Salonga also expressed their support for the BTS artist by sharing the latest release on their Instagram stories.
Fans were thrilled to see such positive responses from industry heavyweights and public figures towards BTS' V's new song. However, attention focused on Nike's creative director, leading to speculation among the fanbase about a potential future ambassadorship. One fan wrote on X:
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"nike…. he’s already securing jobs while he’s still in barracks oh employed hyung"
Supporters expressed their delight at seeing how much the BTS singer is admired by his colleagues and friends in the industry.
"Tae keeps getting full support from people that matter,so lets not allow a corrupt company&an insecure scheming fandom of nobodies keep us down. We may not get the numbers we want,but Tae has the peoples admiration & support & him & us will only keep growing. He won already!" one fan wrote.
"I know nike be sliding in his dms at least thrice a week," another fan added.
"So Nike gon make my baby a brand ambassador or what?!?" one other fan wondered.
Others wondered if the artist would soon collaborate with Nike for a brand deal.
"Nike? I wonder if they have been contacting him, which is why he is wearing Nike a lot recently," one fan said.
"Taehyung NIKE ambassador when??????" another fan quipped.
"Taehyung bag that nike ambassadorship once you’re out kingie," another fan added.
BTS' Taehyung and Park Hyo-shin releases Winter Ahead with a message
The music video for Winter Ahead weaves a narrative steeped in introspection and symbolism. Opening with Taehyung in a bare, dimly lit room, the visuals depict his journey from solitude to connection.
As the story unfolds, the singer interacts with a marble statue, a recurring motif symbolizing identity and self-reflection. A pivotal scene shows him sculpting the statue, drawing parallels between its creation, his emotional growth, and loneliness.
Throughout the video, serene sequences of Taehyung walking through a forest are juxtaposed with moments of chaos, such as fleeting glimpses of an unknown female lead who seems to represent a lost connection or an idealized companion.
The video is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Lee Han-gyeol, known for his ability to blend surrealism with emotional depth. It stands out for its breathtaking visuals and intricate symbolism. The duality of winter—its stark loneliness and tranquil beauty—is captured through sweeping shots of snow-covered landscapes, contrasted with intimate close-ups of the BTS idol's expressions.
Winter Ahead marks yet another milestone in Taehyung’s journey as a solo artist. Following the success of his 2023 debut solo EP Layover and the digital single FRI(END)S, this latest release further cemented his reputation as a multifaceted artist.
