BTS’ SUGA goes rogue as Agust D in ‘Haegeum’ music video from D-DAY, watch

The main track “Haegeum" uses the sound of the Korean traditional string instrument, haegeum, which was also used in “Daechwita” from his previous mixtape D-2.

By Monica Yadav -

April 21, 2023 - 11:21 AM IST

Pop titans BTS' SUGA unveiled the much-awaited music video for his lead track 'Haegeum' from his first official solo album D-DAY under his another moniker Agust D. Following the release pre-release track ‘People Pt.2 (feat. IU)’ and concept photos, teaser, the musician has finally released his album along with cinematic music video.

BTS’ SUGA goes rogue as Agust D in ‘Haegeum’ music video from D-DAY, watch

The main track “Haegeum" uses the sound of the Korean traditional string instrument, haegeum, which was also used in “Daechwita” from his previous mixtape D-2. The video follows the story of SUGA, under his moniker Agust D, who kills a man towards the start of the video at an Asian noodle shop. This mafia-style story kicks off the hunt and chase between cop Agust D and seemingly gangster Agust D. Interestingly, through the sequences, the two of them come face to face only for the gangster to kill the cop. This seems like a callback to “Daechwita” from his previous mixtape D-2 where Agust D kills the mad king.

Speaking about the freedom of expression and capitalism ruining society, SUGA raps, "Interpretation is free for all / Out with the nonsense / Freedom of expression / Could be reason for somebody's death / Could you still consider that freedom? / If your convictions are reflected in your judgment and speculations / And you believe that your freedom is on the same level as others / Then don’t hesitate, just get on board / Liberation from all that's forbidden / For all those living in these unfortunate times / Who don't even understand their own tastes."

The overarching theme of D-DAY is ‘liberation.’ It ruminates on the importance of focusing solely on ‘oneself’ and the ‘present’ in today’s society where an excessive amount of information flows at an unimaginable speed. Each track sings that we shouldn’t be swayed by regrets from the past or fear for the future, but concentrate on the present.

SUGA participated in the songwriting of all tracks and the overall production of D-DAY, boasting his unparalleled capability as a musician and producer.

The main track “Haegeum" puts its spin on a hip-hop track with Korean traditional string instrument haegeum sound. The title ‘haegeum’ has literally two meanings: one is the name of the instrument and the other means ‘liberation.’ The song brings up the topic of freedom for those who seem to live freely, but in reality, live with restrictions set by society in their daily lives.

The official music video of “Haegeum” gives a noir-film-like visuals with intriguing narrative and dramatic elements that create tension in the storyline. The music video is highlighted by SUGA’s acting playing a double role. The two characters from the concept photos ‘Being’ and ‘Exister’ confront each other, and the video ends with an unexpected twist.

D-DAY marks the finale of Agust D’s trilogy following his two previous mixtapes Agust D (2016) and D-2 (2020). SUGA took part in the overall songwriting and producing of the album. Ahead of the album release, SUGA released a pre-release track from the album on April 7. The song titled 'People Pt. 2' is a collaboration with singer-actress IU. This marked their second collaboration.

SUGA’s first solo documentary film, SUGA: Road to D-DAY also released globally on April 21 via Disney+ and Weverse. Starring SUGA, the film captures SUGA on a journey as a musician and producer, finding new inspirations for his music as he goes on a road trip around the world.

SUGA kicks off his first solo world tour SUGA | Agust D TOUR ‘D-DAY’ from April 26 through June 25. The U.S. leg includes: Belmont Park, NY; Newark, NJ; Rosemont, IL; Los Angeles, CA; Oakland, CA. Then, the tour will hit Asia: Jakarta, Indonesia; Bangkok, Thailand; Singapore; Kanagawa, Japan; and Seoul, South Korea.

SUGA also announced on April 24 he would be hosting a special in-person fan event called 'D-DAY: Movie Night' on May 20, in celebration of his album release. 'D-DAY: Movie Night' takes the concept of a film preview, inviting 350 fans for a special stage and talk session on behind-the-scenes stories of the album making and more.