The 10 Best Korean Music Videos of 2022

10. “Make Me Happy” – Whee In 

Mamamoo’s Whee In reimagined the whimsies of Alice in Wonderland in the music video for her January solo release “Make Me Happy.” Infused with a heavy dose of flowers and butterflies, the music video positions Whee In as the sole monarch of a flamboyant wonderland brimming with hope and romance. Right off the bat, we are guided through an enchanting path by a butterfly, flapping its wings ever so gently. The camera then slowly pans out and introduces us to Whee In lying awake on a bed decorated with fresh white roses. The heavy presence of butterflies is intentional and cardinal to Whee In’s artistic expression: “It’s actually related to a really significant childhood memory,” said the singer, opening up about the relationship she shares with butterflies to Rolling Stone India. “Plus, the butterfly is a symbol that my mom has passed on to me, which means a lot, which is why I really wanted to present it as my signature item from this album.”  

Illuminating the room with one swift hand gesture, Whee In holds our gaze with the Victorian era-inspired interiors that stretch throughout the music video. Dipped in a warm pastel color palette, she waltzes from one corner of her supposed castle to another, each more beguiling than the one before. Several moments within the music video wrap you in an inescapable trance (Whee In’s gorgeous visuals and wardrobe being one of them), but few come close to the breathtaking shot of the singer donned in a purple dress, surrounded by lush flowers and candles. The post-production is equally outstanding, especially the concluding scene where Whee In bursts into pink and lilac butterflies.  

“Make Me Happy” is the reverie you grew up seeking happiness from – a paradise where imagination is your guide, whisking you through a cascade of sensations. You cannot help but imagine what experiencing this music video on 4DX would have felt like! – DD

9. “Yet to Come” – BTS 

How do you conclude the most illustrious decade of your career? Do you proudly reminisce about all the chapters that constituted this period? Do you perhaps make your audience weep as they walk down memory lane with you? Or do you sign off with the promise that the best chapters of your life are yet to be written? Well, BTS decided to tick off all three in the most BTS fashion ever; symbolically, gracefully and evocatively.  

Shot in a desert under a clear blue sky, “Yet To Come” was BTS’ grand spectacle before they released a series of announcements including their decision to commence their military services and solo projects. Granted, the inclusion of props from their past music videos made this visual project incredibly significant. Yet, the fact that the group opted to shoot the video in a desert (which represents obstacles — something BTS has had to overcome throughout their career) with sand symbolizing the passage made “Yet To Come” even more poetic. From mimicking the seating arrangement the septet had in “Just One Day,” the infamous blue ‘20219’ cargo container from “Run,” ‘You Never Walk Alone’ carousel from “Spring Day,” to the statue from “Blood, Sweat and Tears,” Yoongi’s piano from “Run” (which is luckily not set ablaze), the iconic yellow school bus from “No More Dream” and more, the music video will tug at your heartstrings, leaving you with a smile of reminiscence. 

The video concludes with perhaps one of the strongest references. Going back to where it all started, members RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook find themselves seated in the same yellow school bus looking happy and content. Contrary to “No More Dream’s” music video where the septet got off the bus, the members remain seated, insinuating they are on the cusp of driving towards the next chapter of their life; after all, the best is yet to come! – DD

8. “Up” – Bang Yongguk 

If you listen to “Up” and pay attention to the lyrics, you’ll be struck by just how unsettling the entire track is. Bang Yongguk focuses on carnal desire as he raps in his baritone voice, “Make you hot as much as you want/ Shimmering mirror ball over your head/ Over unconsciousness, we’re more honest up up/ Pumping out pheromone.” The lyrical imagery is shocking at points and will make the listener uncomfortable, but it’s a deliberate move from Bang which is also why the music video – directed by Kim Jinbeom – works so beautifully when paired with the track. “While working on the MV, I tried to express unrealistic sexualism in the video art in contrast to the explicit lyrics,” the rapper, producer and songwriter told Rolling Stone India earlier this year about “Up.” “I wanted to show a human desire when studying the inner side. So, rather than expressing the characters in the MV as human beings, they were cells or the inner world of men who are caught in the desire.”

Rooted in shades of black, white and gold, the video for “Up” sees Bang surrounded by masked ballerinas. They flit around him, graceful and delicate, making for a sharp contrast to the lyrics that paint a picture of menacing sex. Bang conveys the idea of being caught in desire with scenes of him bound in various ways – in a glass cage in one clip, on a bed blindfolded and tied up with sweeping sheets of fabric, and finally enveloped fully in red latex and ropes. “Up” is a portrayal of violent desire and while it’s absolutely stunning thanks to its color schemes, slow camera pans and of course Bang’s own charismatic presence, this video is not for the faint-hearted. – RC 

7. “Nxde”- (G)I-DLE 

There are several layers to (G)I-DLE’S “Nxde,” all of which ultimately cap the track as a feminist anthem. But even before we get into the thought-provoking symbolism spread across the track, it’s of paramount importance that we acknowledge Soyeon’s sheer brilliance behind titling the track “Nxde.” To help combat the consumption of child pornography online, (G)I-DLE (which roughly translates to young girls in Hangul) released a slew of lyrical posters with the bold statement, “Why you think that ’bout nude.” This move would ultimately filter the searches on the South Korean server, propping up the lyrical poster every time someone tried to search for non-consensual nude images of women, especially minors.  

As for the music video, the alternative pop track features the melody of “Habanera,” a popular aria from Georges Bizet’s classic opera, Carmen, and draws its visual inspiration from old Hollywood glam, burlesque, American actress Marilyn Monroe and artist Banksy. Monroe is a widely celebrated feminist icon for a variety of reasons. Being a victim of over-sexualization and objectification in Hollywood, Monroe was extremely vocal about these challenges and strived to create an industry that viewed women as equals as opposed to mere props put into the system to please men. Her ideals mirror those of (G)I-DLE, especially the track’s lyricist, composer and producer Soyeon, who has consistently highlighted the lack of female producers in the South Korean industry and how many often mocked her ambitions of being one as a trainee.  

The music video opens with a poster welcoming viewers to a ‘wild, wicked and wonderful show’ titled ‘Nude.’ Contrary to what a majority would have already pictured, (G)I-DLE immediately take control of the narrative and are determined to change the perception of the word ‘nude’ people possess in their minds: “Why you think that ’bout nude?/ ‘Cause your view’s so rude/ Think outside the box/ Then you’ll like it,” Soyeon raps. For this quintet, being nude is nothing more than the rawest and most authentic version of themselves. Burdened by the constant mockery from the media and over-sexualization they face as women in the industry, “Nxde” is (G)I-DLE’s rebellion as they boldly declare their intentions to challenge perspectives through their music, even if that results in a dip in public affection. Several nuggets such as Soyeon reading Leaves of Grass, a collection of poems by Walt Whitman that touches upon themes of philosophy and humanity, further drive the group’s point home that there is substance behind their star-studded idol image. 

The music video concludes with a scene wherein the painting of a figure of a woman with the word ‘nude’ shreds down the wooden frame. A direct nod to Banksy’s Love is in the Bin piece that shreds during its auction, this is the most conclusive way to convey (G)I-DLE’s mission to shred societal norms. – DD 

6. “To Life” – Jay Park 

While Jay Park and IU’s hit single “Ganadara” had a playful and endearing music video we absolutely loved, it’s the more emotionally charged “To Life” that truly won our hearts. The single serves as an ode to Park’s 18-year career in the music industry and dropped a day after the hip-hop pioneer announced that he would be stepping down as CEO of both AOMG and H1GHR Music, the labels that he founded in 2013 and 2017 respectively. Directed by Illumin, the music video for “To Life” sees the rapper and singer walk on a red carpet through a dark museum, surrounded by symbols of all his achievements. He begins by placing his AOMG ring and H1GHR Music necklace down – an emotional punch to the gut – before moving on to survey the various ‘exhibits’ that include a room full of mannequins donned in some of his most iconic outfits and screens displaying clips from his various concerts over the years and moments with his fans.

The video ends on a bittersweet note with most of AOMG’s artists standing by their former CEO in a show of support and respect – Simon Dominic (who stepped down as co-CEO of AOMG in 2018), GRAY, Loco, Hoody, YUGYEOM, Lee Hi, Woo and DJ Pumkin are some of the names who make a cameo, looking somber dressed in black, but proud to stand with Park. The rapper finally walks alone through a door of light before disappearing, moving on to his next project in life. It’s an instant tearjerker for longtime fans who have seen Park’s career grow to what it is today and a perfect outline of his legacy so far. – RC 

5. “INVU” – Taeyeon 

The story goes something like this; eons ago, Greek goddess Artemis fell prey to an elaborate deception planned by her twin brother Apollo, who was wrapped within a thick cloud of jealousy and overprotectiveness. Unaware of what she was getting herself into, Artemis launches an arrow that lands and kills the love of her life, Orion. Filled with guilt and anguish, the goddess sends her love into the sky, turning him into a constellation.  

In 2022, Taeyeon and South Korean director Samson from High-Quality Fish studio incorporated references from this mythology into the visuals of “INVU.” Lyrically, the track describes the mindset of a protagonist who continues to chase love despite being hurt by it in the past: “Pour everything out and flop/ Suddenly at one point/ I see myself exhausted/ Even though I’m trying my best.” Building on the angle of forbidden love, the pre-chorus sees Taeyeon touch on this motif: “So I can’t love you/ Even though I do/ Even if I push you away? I can’t beat you? even I abandon myself and lose myself more/ The irony is that you shine more.” 

Taking the celestial route, the music video switches between the posh interiors of Olympus and a vast warzone. References to the moon and bow in the music video further underline Taeyeon’s role as Artemis in this music video. The VFX and wardrobe are equally stunning, accentuating Taeyeon’s character as the sole enchanting warrior. There’s a shot within the music video where a wave of arrows charges toward Taeyeon. Unwavered by the attack, the vocalist stands strong and finds the arrows landing around her but never on her. This could be symbolism of her character’s perseverance when it comes to matters of love. 

Captivating, visually enchanting, and loaded with serene landscapes, “INVU” is a stunning work of art, amplified by Taeyeon’s ethereal visuals and the glorious sets. The cinematography and styling do absolute justice to the dreamy soundscape the singer weaves with her euphonious vocals, enhancing the listeners’ experience. It’s a delightful treat for your senses – the whole package! – DD 

4. “Feel My Rhythm” – Red Velvet  

An end-of-year list blurb for “Feel My Rhythm” will never be the right place to exhaustively persuade readers why this music video is a gorgeous work of art. It deserves a lengthy essay dedicated to narrating the art movements and paintings referenced in the video alone but hey, we’ll try our best.  

Blending the sophistication of classical music (Sebastian Bach’s “Air On The G String” to be specific) with the pulsating energy of trap beats, K-pop hitmakers Red Velvet made a spell-binding comeback with “Feel My Rhythm” in late March. Brimming with a striking palette and a dash of vintage charm, the music video wastes no time and immediately rears you into its artistic universe. Within the first 12 seconds itself, Red Velvet reference four iconic paintings – John Everett Millais’ Ophelia, John William Waterhouse’s Nymphs finding the head of Orpheus, Jean-Honoré Fragonard’s The Swing, and Paul Dominique Philippoteaux’s The Spy. Inspiration for visual storytelling flows from all corners of the art world, including movements like the renaissance, surrealism and impressionism and their contributing artists Hieronymus Bosch, Claude Monet and Max Ernst to name a few. But wait, it gets better! A possible nod to Tchaikovskys ballet Swan Lake, the opening dance sequence sees the members imitate the wings of a bird using their hands. The gestures seamlessly flow as each member pirouettes from one spot to another, similar to a bird gliding through the sky. With a concept so deeply embedded in expressive art movements that demands a certain level of charisma to embody its essence, who better than K-pop’s reining royalties of concept to accentuate the intricacies of this kaleidoscopic concept? 

It’s truly a shame knowing that there’s a whole group of people out there shielding themselves from K-pop – especially a masterpiece as classy and aesthetic as “Feel My Rhythm” – due to their prejudices and baseless notions about the industry. Because let’s be real, there’s absolutely no reason why anyone would willingly want to skip such an exquisite visual tapestry of art and drama. – DD 

3. “Guerrilla” – ATEEZ 

ATEEZ’s 2022 single “Guerrilla” is an anthem of anarchy and a refusal to be silenced, and its music video brings this message to life. The cinematic video directed by Moon Seokho and Seong Wonmo follows a complex storyline with ATEEZ as the rebel force in a dystopian world where music, art, and individuality are banned. Perfection and conformity are pushed upon the youth, and freedom of choice and expression do not exist. The eight members of the band infiltrate the forces in control to break apart the system from within and spread a message of hope and anarchy, encouraging citizens to fight against the oppressive government.

What makes “Guerrilla” stand out is the fact that the plot we see in the music video was further expanded upon in two trailers that dropped before the release of their 2022 EP The World EP.1: Movement; put it all together and it plays out on the same level as an action movie. In addition to the slick camerawork, futuristic sets and costumes, the clips are all brimming with Easter eggs, symbolism, connections to past music videos by the band, and references to historic artwork. In fact, the most stunning still from the “Guerrilla” music video is strongly reminiscent of French artist Eugène Delacroix’s 1830 painting, Liberty Leading The People.

The video also features shots of ATEEZ performing their signature power-packed style of choreography, which drives in the nu-metal and hip-hop-influenced sound. ATEEZ are forever expanding upon their pirate lore, jumping unapologetically into being rebels with a cause, and it’s overwhelming when you realize that “Guerrilla” is simply one chapter in their complex storyline. – RC 

2. “458” – CIX 

CIX are no strangers to stunning yet unnerving cinematography – just take a look at their 2019 debut with “Movie Star” as well as 2020’s “Jungle” which was based on Dante Alighieri’s epic narrative poemThe Divine Comedy – so a return to dark imagery was something we were all waiting for and “458” absolutely nails it. The track, which leads the quintet’s fifth EP ‘OK’ Episode 1: OK, is a gorgeous piece of production, layering discordant synths, piano, and dreamy vocal reverbs to deliver an ode to an obsessive, uncontrollable love. The title “458” references a type of Ferrari, as the lyrics encourage the idea of accelerating into that obsession with no regrets.  

Watching it for the first time, “458” seems simple with its focus on stunning solo shots of the members and sleek choreography, but it’s this simplicity that makes it a wolf in sheep’s clothing. With clipped or scorched wings and feathers floating around them, the storyline hints at the members of CIX being fallen angels. There’s a feeling of imminent danger as they stare unflinchingly into the camera, their gazes highlighted with sharp bars of light and shadow. They’re sexy, ethereal in their beauty, and very clearly deadly thanks to the sharp choreography. Add the clipped wings, and you realize that these ‘angels’ have been cast out of heaven for a reason. There are fantastic moments of filmmaking where the visuals play with the sound – the first zoom-in on vocalist Hyunsuk as he hangs limp, bound by chains while vocal reverbs echo around him, the bars of light skimming across vocalist Jinyoung while he performs jarring pop and lock choreography, and vocalist Seunghun’s red-haired silhouette against a white backdrop are particularly memorable. The clip ends with a black-and-white visual of CIX back at the sprawling paradise of Eden or heaven, while a looming, hooded celestial being seems to gaze down at them in sorrow – perhaps a look at the moment of judgment before the members were cast out.  

The beauty of “458” is the infinite loops of analysis it can spawn. There are no right or wrong answers, and CIX and director Kim Wooje invite audiences to create their own narrative. This video holds immense potential to kick off a larger cinematic storyline unlike any other in K-pop. – RC 

1. “Seraph | 1 Shot | Mood | Ribbon | Official MIITO Movie (Part 1)” – DPR IAN 

DPR IAN has built an unbeatable legacy when it comes to visual excellence and the “Official MIITO Movie” is possibly the Korean-Australian artist’s magnum opus. The video combines four tracks from DPR IAN’s debut studio album, Mood Swings In To Order – “Seraph,” “1 Shot,” “Mood” and “Ribbon” – to deliver the storyline of Mito, a character he first introduced on his 2021 EP Moodswings In This Order. Mito is an alter ego of DPR IAN, a character born of his experience living with bipolar disorder, which allows him to express the chaos in his artistry. With the singer-songwriter and producer himself taking the reins as director, editor and VFX artist, the short film serves as Mito’s background story, documenting his fall from grace as he makes the painful and tragic shift from arch angel to demon.  

The video begins with flashbacks to DPR IAN’s previous music videos intercut with shots showcasing him wrenched from his role as a knight of heaven to fall to earth in a swirl of dust, fire and lightning. “Seraph” plays as he falls, its dramatic string sections accompanying DPR IAN’s harrowing monologue where he sets the tone: “Out of all my creations/ You were the epitome of all that is good/ The utmost of my potential/ You were my first/ And I’ll make sure to be your last/ You created me in your image/ And now it’s time to create mine in yours.” It’s the most stunning sequence in the entire video, followed closely by the image of Mito seemingly fighting God and controlling a flaming, lightning-ridden sky as the soundtrack switches to “1 Shot.” As the track changes to “Mood,” DPR IAN’s Mito wrestles with his own sins in a dingy motel room, facing his inevitable transformation into the demon that hovers above him menacingly. It’s a change that almost finds completion as “Ribbon” begins to play – beings from hell clad in red surround and envelop him before finally moving aside to unveil the once-fragile and terrified Mito now embracing the darkness. Draped in red and breaking into sultry moves, Mito seems to accept his punishment and flourish in it. While he does break away from the demonic side of himself and try to escape once more, the “Official MIITO Movie” ends on a cliff-hanger, leaving viewers aching to see the conclusion and complete transformation to the chaotic devil-cum-rockstar we’ve previously seen in videos like “So Beautiful” (2020) and “Welcome To The Show” (2021). 

There’s so much religious and mythological symbolism, references to past releases and metaphorical imagery crammed in every frame of the “Official MIITO Movie” that it’s impossible to break down here; you’d need an essay – possibly with inputs from DPR IAN and his team – to begin to understand the larger picture. The short film as well as the LP Mood Swings In To Order as a whole are deeply personal, and DPR IAN does a phenomenal job of bringing his vision of anguish, love and loss to life to give us a glimpse of who he is both in front of the camera and behind it. – RC