The Future of Big Hit Entertainment

Once an underdog label, Big Hit Entertainment is now one of the most high-profile and profitable companies in K-pop. This is thanks almost entirel…

SB Mid-Year Review, 2020: Compelling Narratives vs Striking Visuals in MVs

Looking back at the year's releases so far, Gina and Sara touch on MV's that distinctively highlights the artists in new and improved ways. Most of th…

The Evolution of Pre-Releases

Pre-releases have long been a tool in K-pop’s promotional toolbox. Generally, they have served as loyal wingmen to official comebacks, their prima…

The SB Mixtape, 6/25/2020: Summertime

A playlist for the official beginning of summer? Revolutionary. I am both a very visual person and someone who associates certain kinds of music/s…

Agust D is Raw and Contemplative with “D-2”

"It’s more that I made the music I wanted to make, rather than fixating on attempting something new. [...] What’s good is good, and it’s up to the…

Agust D Confronts His Past Self in “Daechwita”

After announcing on Vlive that fans should forget about his second mixtape for a few months, BTS's Suga surprised us all when he dropped D-2 abrup…

The SB Mixtape 3/19/2020: Growing Pains

Sometimes there are days when you reminisce. You look back on the past and replay those moments over and over again in your mind, wondering if you…

BTS’ “Black Swan” is Depressing, but Necessary

Before we get into the MV review of BTS' "Black Swan", allow me to share my experience as someone who loves art. Since young, I've always enjoyed …

From Underdogs to Saviors: BTS Struggle with Ambitious Concepts in “ON” MV

Fans of BTS are familiar with the group's intricate and well thought out MVs that engage with the conceptual ideas behind each comeback. With the …

BTS Lose Their Way in “Map of the Soul: 7”

Anyone who has followed BTS from the beginning of their journey has witnessed history in the making. When they first hit Western headlines with th…