A Korean drinking game-inspired collaboration between BLACKPINK’s Rosé and pop star Bruno Mars has become a global sensation, with their new single “APT.” (Image courtesy of the Black Label)
SEOUL, Oct. 25 (Korea Bizwire) – A Korean drinking game-inspired collaboration between BLACKPINK’s Rosé and pop star Bruno Mars has become a global sensation, with their new single “APT.” reaching significant milestones in record time.
The music video, featuring the duo playing the traditional Korean drinking game “apateu” (meaning apartment in Korean) and Mars enthusiastically shouting “geonbae” (Korean for “cheers”), has surpassed 100 million views in just five days. This achievement notably outpaces PSY’s viral hit “Gangnam Style,” which took 52 days to reach the same milestone in 2012.
The song’s infectious chorus, which repeats the word “apateu” in a distinct cadence, has sparked a wave of social media challenges worldwide. Fans across different countries are creating their own versions, carefully pronouncing the Korean-inspired lyrics and participating in the “apateu game” challenge.
“The song’s success can be attributed to its playful, game-like elements,” says Kim Heon-sik, a pop culture critic. “Such interactive features tend to go viral on the internet, and the song’s entertaining nature has resonated with young people globally.”
The track’s popularity extends beyond video views, as it currently tops global charts on major streaming platforms, including Spotify. The collaboration showcases Rosé singing in both Korean and English, with Mars joining in on the cultural exchange.
In the music video, both artists can be seen encouraging fans to show love for “APT”, demonstrating the cross-cultural appeal of the release. The viral phenomenon continues to grow, marking a significant milestone in Rosé’s solo career since departing from her group activities.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
