BTS released a 20-second teaser for the music video of their track Normal on July 15. The clip shows members at urinals and has triggered online discussion about double standards in K-Pop. The song is scheduled for release on July 17 KST as the second single from the ARIRANG album.
The teaser depicts the BTS members lined up at urinals while RM looks for a spot. It follows tabloid-style promotional ads and has gone viral on social media.
Some viewers argued that a girl group releasing similar content would face harsher criticism. Fans responded by noting that the group receives extra scrutiny due to its popularity and that the concept has precedents.
Female idols and BIGBANG members G-Dragon and T.O.P previously used bathroom and urinal imagery in videos. Defenders pointed out that no indecency is shown in the BTS teaser.
The track will receive a full music video as part of the ARIRANG album rollout.