BTS unveiled the music video for “Hooligan,” a popular B-side from their latest album “ARIRANG,” on Wednesday. The release was sudden, especially by the standards of the K-pop industry. Earlier that day, the group’s official social media accounts changed their profile picture to an image featuring three black balaclavas, prompting a flurry of speculation among fans online.
“Hooligan” is an energetic and rebellious track co-written by RM, j-hope, and Suga, presenting a stark contrast to the group’s softer, chart-topping title track “SWIM.” While “SWIM” embraces a more tender and polished sound, “Hooligan” takes a different approach, characterized by its rawness and high energy.
The music video features RM, Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook dressed in edgy black outfits. It begins in a parking garage, reminiscent of their 2017 video for “Not Today,” and includes masked dancers as well as a woman wielding a sword. The video transitions from the parking lot to an underground setting and finally to a rooftop, showcasing the masks worn by the members, which they first debuted during a globally livestreamed performance at Gwanghwamun Square a few weeks prior.
Midway through the music video, a tall swordswoman interrupts, synchronized with the sword sounds that open the video. Following this, the members are seen amidst a chaotic storm, where hooligans are swept around them by fierce winds. This intentionally disordered sequence is effective as it avoids elaborate explanations.
A highlight of the video features RM, who captivates the audience alongside a skeleton while managing a mic stand structure. This striking imagery is emblematic of BTS’s unique style: visually intriguing, physically engaging, and highly captivating.
The choreography throughout the video is intense, showcasing aggressive formations, precise movements, and explosive group dynamics, all set against dark alleyways, neon-lit streets, and dramatic warehouse scenes illuminated in red and gold.
“Hooligan” marks the third music video released during the ARIRANG era. Previously, the group launched videos for their title track “SWIM” and a tribute to Park Chan Wook’s “Oldboy” with the “2.0” clip. Each of these videos is stylistically unique, highlighting BTS’s intention to showcase their versatility rather than repeat past themes.
Additionally, “Hooligan” was promoted through dance challenges even prior to the video’s premiere, positioning it as a co-lead track alongside “SWIM.” This type of multi-track promotion is uncommon for a B-side and reflects the confidence that both the group and Big Hit Music have in the song.
The album “ARIRANG” has been performing impressively, maintaining its position at the top of the Billboard 200 chart. BTS has clearly returned with substantial momentum, and the release of the “Hooligan” video further enhances this trend.
Looking ahead, BTS is preparing for their ARIRANG World Tour, which is set to commence on April 9, 2026, spanning 34 cities into the following year. The tour will kick off at the Goyang Stadium in South Korea.
Recently, BTS also released their hidden track “Come Over” as part of the ARIRANG Deluxe LP version, which launched on April 4. For fans who have eagerly awaited the group’s return since their 2022 hiatus, “ARIRANG” is exceeding expectations. With its boldness and striking visuals, “Hooligan” perfectly fits this narrative.
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