K-pop, short for Korean pop, is a musical genre that originated in South Korea in the early 1990s. Over the years, the genre has gained massive popularity around the world, with K-pop groups and artists from South Korea becoming global superstars. One of the key elements of K-pop music videos is the opening shot, which sets the tone for the rest of the video and often showcases the creative vision of the artist and their team. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most memorable K-pop music video openings to date, and explore why they are so memorable and impactful.
1. BTS – “Blood Sweat & Tears”
BTS is one of the most popular K-pop groups in the world, and their music video for “Blood Sweat & Tears” is a prime example of the group’s innovative and creative approach to music videos. The opening shot of the video features the members of BTS standing in front of a large, intricate set, each member dressed in a different outfit that reflects their unique personality and style. The set is covered in flowers, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the video. The shot is also notable for its use of symmetry, with the members positioned in a way that creates a visually stunning image.
2. BLACKPINK – “Kill This Love”
BLACKPINK‘s “Kill This Love” is another music video that features an unforgettable opening shot. The video begins with a close-up of each member, with a different color lighting up each face. This shot is particularly memorable for the intense gaze of each member, which immediately captures the viewer’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the video. The shot is also noteworthy for its use of color, with each member associated with a different color that reflects their individuality and energy.
3. EXO – “Growl”
EXO‘s “Growl” is a music video that features one of the most unique and memorable openings in K-pop history. The video begins with a shot of a large, futuristic cityscape, with the members of EXO appearing one by one in the foreground. The members are each dressed in unique, futuristic outfits that reflect their individuality and the high-tech atmosphere of the video. This opening shot is particularly memorable for its use of special effects and the creative vision of the artist and their team.
4. Red Velvet – “Bad Boy”
Red Velvet‘s “Bad Boy” is a music video that features one of the most visually stunning openings in K-pop. The video begins with a shot of the members standing in front of a large, intricately decorated set, each member dressed in a different, eye-catching outfit. The set is decorated with bright, bold colors and intricate patterns, creating a visual feast for the viewer. This opening shot is particularly memorable for its use of color, texture, and pattern, which immediately captures the viewer’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the video.
5. Girls’ Generation – “Gee”
Girls’ Generation‘s “Gee” is a classic K-pop music video that features one of the most memorable openings in the genre. The video begins with a shot of each member, dressed in brightly colored outfits and smiling brightly at the camera. This shot is particularly memorable for its use of color and its upbeat, cheerful tone, which immediately sets the tone for the rest of the video. The shot is also noteworthy for its use of symmetry, with the members positioned in a way that creates a visually stunning image.
The opening shots of these music videos not only showcase the creativity and artistic vision of the artists and their teams, but they also set the tone for the rest of the video and often provide memorable and impactful visual images that fans will never forget. Whether it’s through the use of color, pattern, special effects, or unique and imaginative set designs, K-pop’s most memorable music video openings are a testament to the genre’s ongoing commitment to innovation and creativity.
It’s also worth noting that the success of K-pop music videos is largely due to the hard work and dedication of the artists and their teams, who put in countless hours of rehearsals and preparation to bring their visions to life. From the choreography to the costumes, every element of a K-pop music video is carefully planned and executed to create a cohesive and impactful final product.
So, the next time you watch a K-pop music video, pay close attention to the opening shot and appreciate the hard work and dedication that went into creating it.
Featured Image: Screenshot from Girls’ Generation “Gee” video