Singer IU released the second music video, “Beauty,” from her remake album ‘Flower Bookmark Three,’ blending the original song’s emotions with a modern sensibility harmoniously. On May 29th at midnight, IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment unexpectedly unveiled the “Beauty” music video on IU’s official YouTube channel. “Beauty” is a reinterpretation of Shin Joong-hyun’s classic song, which holds a significant position in the history of Korean popular music, incorporating a modern sound and a fresh perspectIVE. The remake project involved the experimental K-pop style pursued by BANGTIGER, with member Sogeum contributing to the outro lyrics and composition, adding a creatIVE interpretation. The music video visually unfolds a coming-of-age story between a boy bathed in bright light and a girl in the shadows, starting with the familiar opening line, “I want to see you again and again after seeing you once.” The two protagonists, wearing masks to hide their respectIVE wounds and burdens, experience a shift in emotions when they finally confront each other’s true selves. The narratIVE reaches a dramatic turning point in the rooftop scene where IU and Cha Eun-woo meet. As the lyrics “You resemble a beauty that resembles a May magnolia” flow, the two characters shed their masks and embrace their true identities. The emotional direction, combined with the visual beauty and music, enhances immersion. Particularly, a parody scene utilizing light and shadow reminiscent of an electronic product advertisement appears towards the end of the video, providing a meaningful twist while relieving the tension of the story. The music video was directed by BANGTIGER member Lee Soo-ho, with creatIVE director Sanyan playing a crucial role in connecting the narratIVE and imagery emotionally. Cha Eun-woo’s brief appearance exerts a dramatic effect, securing both the symbolic significance and public attention of the video. The release of “Beauty” demonstrates IU’s effort to reinterpret the emotional trajectory and message of the original song in the language of the current era, going beyond a simple remake. Her remake album ‘Flower Bookmark Three’ is praised for inheriting a musical legacy while encompassing contemporary sensibilities, satisfying both popularity and artistry simultaneously.
