The return of a Kpop icon.

In South Korea, BIGBANG is one of the rare groups known to all generations, young and old. With their international achievements and influence, few can deny that they have played a crucial role in shaping the music market in the country. To this day, after 16 years of activity, including long breaks, BIGBANG remains an icon and an inspiration for subsequent generations of artists.

16 years and a journey to becoming an icon.

Formed in August 2006, when the K-pop industry was just beginning to flourish, BIGBANG quickly became a breath of fresh air with their vibrant melodies, blending elements of hip-hop, electronic, and contemporary R&B. Within just one year of their debut, the five members had consistently topped music charts, gaining popularity not only in Korea but across Asia with unforgettable hits like...LiesgoodHaru Haru.

It could be said that, compared to the general standard at the time, BIGBANG didn't have many advantages in terms of appearance. However, through their ability to produce their own music, impressive performance skills, and artistic works with a very unique personality, they convincingly won the hearts of the public.

Besides music, fashion style is also a factor that has helped BIGBANG elevate themselves to a new level. Constantly researching and experimenting with bold styles, BIGBANG's immense fashion influence has transcended the borders of South Korea and spread throughout Asia. They have become one of the pioneering names in K-pop, chosen by prestigious fashion houses worldwide to collaborate with and attend top fashion events.

BIGBANG is a complete picture with five harmonious yet distinct members. Instead of just working as a group, they invest in each member's solo career to establish a solid foothold for each individual. These include G-Dragon with his innate musical talent and unique fashion sense, TOP with his strong rap skills and impressive acting abilities, Taeyang with his distinctive R&B voice and masterful dance technique, Daesung with his entertainment skills in variety shows, and Seungri – a former member of the group – with his strengths in hosting and business.

Throughout their career, BIGBANG's music has always been well-invested in terms of content and meticulously presented. This is also a crucial factor in how the public and those in the art world perceive BIGBANG as more than just a simple idol group.

A return after many ups and downs.

The South Korean entertainment industry has always been an extremely fierce "battleground." New generations of idols debut one after another, forcing older groups to gradually give way. At the same time, BIGBANG shifted to pursuing solo projects and members successively fulfilled their military service. Along with this, the group also faced many scandals, the most controversial being member Seungri's decision to leave the group due to personal controversies. Just when it seemed that the hope of a comeback for the legendary group was too far-fetched, BIGBANG surprised fans with a single.Still LifeReleased at midnight on April 5th (Korean time), marking a return after a four-year hiatus.

Instead of delivering the vibrant, trendy sound of previous albums, the new song immerses fans in introspective soft-rock melodies, tinged with nostalgia.Still LifeThe song is about the passage of time through the seasons, but behind that lies a deeper meaning of self-reflection and a promise for a happy future. It's like a confession, a heartfelt message to the fans – those who have accompanied and followed the boys through the ups and downs of their career.

"I remember the boys and girls who cried and laughed together."

I will always remember those glorious and loving days..."

One particularly noticeable feature isStill LifeThere are no scenes of the members together. Throughout the MV, there are only images of four chairs, four lights, four flowers, and ending with five lines as a symbol of BIGBANG when all five members were present.

Still LifeNot only was it the first song released after Seungri left the group, but it was also the last song before TOP terminated his contract with his management company. Everything has changed and will continue to change; whether Still Life is a greeting to a fresh start or a final farewell, the image of a legendary group remains an irreplaceable icon in the hearts of the public.

Ha Thu (photo: Internet)