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On December 12, 2024, BTS member Kim Taehyung, also known as V, made headlines as his latest single, WINTER AHEAD, was ranked No. 1 on Billboard's "27 Best Winter Songs for the Season" list. The song and a six-minute-long music video were released on November 29, 2024.
The announcement sparked an emotional response from ARMY (BTS fans), who praised the BTS idol for creating a song that embodies winter's melancholic yet comforting spirit. Many fans lauded WINTER AHEAD for its nostalgic jazz-pop sound, enriched by Taehyung's vocals and his collaboration with celebrated Korean singer Park Hyo-shin.
One fan wrote on X:
"Organic music always triumphs"
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Billboard's recognition of WINTER AHEAD as the top winter song delighted the BTS fandom as they flooded social media with praises.
"“All season long” So true. I’m so proud of Taehyung and his lyrics and melody," one fan wrote.
"Y'all don't know how much I LIVE for the recognition, praise, and appreciation of Taehyung's artistry. And the fact that it's the first song listed in the article too. Beautiful," another fan wrote.
"I'm gonna cry. It's finally happening, the recognition and break through his music deserves," one other fan added.
Others lauded the Grammy-nominated musician for his "talent" and hailed him as a "LEGEND."
"That’s our composer and songwriter taehyung work. So proud. Yes its expiry goes beyond Christmas and it is magical for all seasons," one fan remarked.
"This is how you break out of the kpop genre and make a name for yourself. Damn taehyung truly making HISTORY as we speak and paving his own way. You are a LEGEND A HITMAKER so proud of you and im so excited for the future you have ahead <3" another fan added.
"Undoubtedly, Winter Ahead is the best!" one other fan stated.
More about BTS' Taehyung's WINTER AHEAD and its music video
The music video for WINTER AHEAD was directed by Lee Hangyeol, who is known for his artistry and attention to detail. The video presented a narrative combined with visually striking elements resembling a short film. The MV was filmed in locations like the Théâtre Montansier and the Château de Saudreville in Villeconin, France.
The plot explored themes of love, loneliness, and illusion. The protagonist (Taehyung) created an imaginary paradise with a woman he has sculpted, played by model Aida Atarssa. The idyllic moments—symbolized by dances, quiet celebrations, and warm embraces—are abruptly shattered when Taehyung confronts the reality of his solitude.
The final scenes depicted a haunting realization as he came face-to-face with his darker, fragmented self. Fans noted the subtle symbolism in the scar behind his ear and the recurring motif of footsteps, representing the collapse of his dreamlike world.
The director and cinematographer used muted color palettes, contrasting shadows, and symbolic imagery to highlight Taehyung's emotional journey. Close-up shots capturing V's subtle facial expressions elevated the narrative.
Fans were particularly drawn to few of the MV moments like Taehyung's red jacket scenes, which showcased the climactic confrontation with his imagined self—a representation of inner turmoil. The visuals are thoughtfully paired with the song’s instrumentals, which feature jazz-inspired piano and orchestral elements.
Fans can stream WINTER AHEAD across all platforms.
