손오공 – SEVENTEEN
In recent years, the world of K-pop has expanded to embrace a diverse array of musical styles and themes. One song that has captivated listeners with its unique sound and narrative is “손오공” (Son O-gong), inspired by the legendary figure of the Monkey King from Chinese mythology. This track is a compelling blend of traditional elements and contemporary music, showcasing the rich cultural heritage while appealing to modern audiences.
The Cultural Context of “손오공”
The character of Son O-gong, also known as Sun Wukong or the Monkey King, originates from the 16th-century Chinese classic novel Journey to the West. This epic tale follows the adventures of a monk and his companions, including Son O-gong, who possesses supernatural abilities and a rebellious spirit. The story of the Monkey King is one of transformation, growth, and the quest for enlightenment, making it a rich source of inspiration for artists across various mediums.
In Journey to the West, Son O-gong is depicted as a trickster figure, known for his cleverness and strength, but also for his impulsive nature. His journey is not just physical but also deeply spiritual, as he learns valuable lessons about humility, loyalty, and friendship. These themes resonate with audiences, allowing artists to explore the complexities of human nature through the lens of myth.
The Musical Composition
“손오공” features a vibrant and dynamic musical composition that reflects the energy and essence of its titular character. The song combines various genres, such as hip-hop, pop, and traditional Korean music, creating a unique auditory experience.
The instrumentation includes modern beats alongside traditional instruments like the gayageum (a Korean string instrument) and taepyeongso (a double-reed instrument). This fusion creates a sound that is both contemporary and rooted in cultural heritage. The rhythmic patterns and melodic lines work together to evoke the feeling of adventure and excitement, much like the Monkey King’s escapades.
The song’s structure allows for a dynamic progression, with energetic verses leading into soaring choruses. This contrast mirrors the ups and downs of Son O-gong’s character, reflecting his moments of triumph and vulnerability. The production quality is high, with layered harmonies and intricate arrangements that captivate the listener’s attention.
Lyrical Themes and Message
The lyrics of “손오공” delve into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of greatness. They draw parallels between the challenges faced by Son O-gong and the struggles of modern individuals navigating their own journeys.
The song encourages listeners to embrace their unique qualities and to be unafraid of challenging societal norms, much like the Monkey King who defied celestial authorities in pursuit of freedom and self-expression. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of empowerment, urging listeners to confront their obstacles head-on and to believe in their abilities.
In addition to its motivational message, the song also explores the idea of friendship and loyalty. Just as Son O-gong forms deep bonds with his companions on his journey, the lyrics emphasize the importance of having a supportive community to rely on during difficult times.
The Visuals: A Journey Through Myth
The music video for “손오공” is a visual spectacle that enhances the song’s themes and narrative. Set against stunning backdrops, the video combines vibrant colors, dynamic choreography, and elements of traditional Chinese and Korean culture.
The imagery reflects the adventures of Son O-gong, showcasing his agility and strength through intricate dance sequences that blend contemporary dance with traditional movements. These choreographed performances not only highlight the talent of the artists but also serve to embody the character’s spirited nature.
Additionally, the video features symbolic elements drawn from the original Journey to the West, such as the presence of mythical creatures and references to the monk’s pilgrimage. These visuals deepen the connection to the source material, allowing viewers to appreciate the cultural significance behind the song.
The use of visual storytelling effectively conveys the emotional arc of the song, inviting the audience to immerse themselves in the journey of self-discovery and growth alongside the Monkey King.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “손오공” received positive acclaim from both fans and critics. Listeners praised the song for its innovative blend of styles and the depth of its lyrical content. The track quickly gained popularity on streaming platforms, showcasing its appeal across a diverse audience.
The music video further amplified its reach, garnering millions of views within a short period. Fans celebrated the artistic direction and the incorporation of cultural elements, leading to discussions about the significance of folklore in contemporary music.
“손오공” has sparked interest in the story of the Monkey King, prompting listeners to explore the original text and its adaptations. This renewed engagement with classical literature highlights the power of music as a medium for cultural exchange and education.
Conclusion
“손오공” stands as a testament to the ability of modern artists to reinterpret classic tales and connect them to contemporary themes. Through its captivating musical composition, powerful lyrics, and stunning visuals, the song not only pays homage to the legendary Monkey King but also resonates with listeners on a personal level.
By weaving together the rich narrative of Journey to the West with the struggles and aspirations of modern life, “손오공” encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness, pursue their dreams, and foster meaningful connections with others. As K-pop continues to evolve, songs like “손오공” serve as a reminder of the genre’s potential to bridge cultural gaps and inspire new generations.
Ooh-ah-ah, ah-ah, yeah
SEVENTEEN right here
땅을 보고 계속 올랐지 정상까지
많은 시련은 보란 듯이, I always win
강한 마음이 중요하지 (중요하지)
미래는 도망가지 않아 내가 놓기 전까지
Da-rum-da-rim-da, 구름을 타고 여기저기로 (hey)
Da-rum-da-rim-da, 우리들의 긍지를 높이러 (hey)
Da-rum-da-rim-da, 또 다른 세계 나아가자, go
이 rhythm에 맞춰
Say, say, say, say 영웅본색 like this
시간과 공간에 구애받지 않는 자세, 자세
힘을 다하고 쓰러져도
포기를 모르고 날뛰는 중
마치 된 것 같아 손오공
마치 된 것 같아 손오공
우리는 쉬지 않아 매일, make it, make it
끝까지 가보자 (마치 된 것 같아 손오공)
I love my team, I love my crew, 여기까지 달리면서
I love my team, I love my crew, 계속 달릴 수 있어 더
I love my team, I love my crew, 여기까지 오르면서
I love my team, 그 덕분에 우린 (마치 된 것 같아 손오공)
알리지 우리는 등장 중 (중), 여전히 세대를 뒤바꿈 (꿈)
멈추지 않아 뜀박 중 (중), 발이 꼬여도 뒷박 (brrr) 쿵
Ooh, ooh, pull up my 근두운
Ooh, ooh, 성실히 수행 중
Da-rum-da-rim-da, 늘어나라 하늘로 여의봉 (hey)
Da-rum-da-rim-da, 우리들의 매일은 come and go (hey)
Da-rum-da-rim-da, 모든 걸 위해 나아가자, go
이 노래에 맞춰
Say, say, say, say (oh, yeah) 영웅본색 like this
시간과 공간에 구애받지 않는 자세, 자세
힘을 다하고 쓰러져도
포기를 모르고 날뛰는 중
마치 된 것 같아 손오공
마치 된 것 같아 손오공
우리는 쉬지 않아 매일, make it, make it
끝까지 가보자 (마치 된 것 같아 손오공)
I love my team, I love my crew, 여기까지 달리면서
I love my team, I love my crew, 계속 달릴 수 있어 더
I love my team, I love my crew, 여기까지 오르면서
I love my team, 그 덕분에 우린 (마치 된 것 같아 손오공)
진실은 때론 잔혹해 (what’s that?)
거짓은 때론 달콤해 (what’s that?)
다정함은 때론 거짓말로 (what’s that?)
나쁜 것 싹 다 모아둬 (ping하고 불 나와)
Ener-energy, 기 모아 아주 다 나와
Ener-energy, 한방에 아주 발사 파
지금부터 다 하늘 위로 함성 발사
이 노래는 이 만화의 엔딩송이다