The group BTS returned as a full unit for the first time in 3 years and 9 months, and global fans' attention is focused on the female lead in the music video for the new song "Swim (SWIM)."
BTS released the music video for "Swim," the title track of their fifth full-length album "Arirang (ARIRANG)," on the 20th. In this music video, set against the vast sea and a large ship in Lisbon, Portugal, the person who created a distinctive atmosphere among BTS members while carrying the narrative is Hollywood actress Lili Reinhart.
Lili Reinhart, who was born in 1996 in Cleveland, Ohio, United States, drew global fans' attention after the music video was released. Interested from a young age in dance, singing and acting, and having gained experience through local musicals and performances, she joined an agency for the first time at age 11 and began acting in earnest.
She gained worldwide recognition when she played the lead role Betty Cooper in the popular teen drama series "Riverdale." She later established herself as a rising Hollywood star by showing depth in films such as King of Summer, Hustlers and I Tried Living Two Lives, among others. She is active in various fields, including film producing and writing.
She publicly criticized broadcaster and entrepreneur Kim Kardashian, expressing her convictions. Kim Kardashian attracted attention for losing 7 kg over three weeks to wear the legendary actress Marilyn Monroe's dress at the 2022 Met Gala, and Lili Reinhart publicly criticized this, saying, "It's disgusting.. How hungry do you have to be to walk the red carpet and give interviews. You didn't eat carbohydrates, to fit into a damn dress? It's so wrong."
In the "Swim" music video, Lili Reinhart delicately portrays a woman who wanders and despairs on a huge ship but ultimately breaks free from her shackles and moves forward. Some interpret her role as symbolizing ARMY's longing, who waited through BTS's military hiatus, and a new journey, adding to the emotional impact.
Immediately after the music video was released, Lili Reinhart shared behind-the-scenes footage from the shoot on her SNS, showing off her friendship with BTS. In the video she introduced members striking playful poses, saying, "Please watch over my friends for a bit," conveying a warm set atmosphere.
The music video was directed by world-renowned director Tanu Muino, who has worked with Jungkook and Jennie. Muino's characteristic sensuous mise-en-scène, Lili Reinhart's Western features, and the members' more mature aura combined to create cinematic visuals, according to reviews.
Meanwhile, BTS will hold "BTS comeback live: Arirang" in Gwanghwamun today (the 21st) as they begin full activities.<
[Photo] Lili Reinhart SNS, ⓒGettyimages (unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited)
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