Abstract:
This study investigated the semiotics present in the music video (MV) of the album
“The Most Beautiful Moment in Life” by Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS). This study
used a descriptive qualitative approach to analyze the data. This research applies
Roland Barthes’ semiotic theory to identify sign elements, such as signifier and
signified, and the interpretation of meaning through denotation and connotation
found in the MV. Three music videos from the album, specifically “I Need U,”
“Run,” and “Epilogue: Young Forever.” The study used the YouTube platform and
BTS’ official website as primary data sources. The research shows that the visual
elements in the music videos contain deep symbolism that reflects complex
emotional and psychological experiences. The sign elements in this music video
consistently employ visual symbolism to communicate profound emotional themes,
including grief, loss, struggle, friendship, and self-discovery. Every interpretation
in the music video carries a decisive connotative significance that enhances the
comprehension of the message BTS aims to communicate. It symbolically
represents the life journey and emotional development of the BTS members about
the experiences of contemporary youths. This study aims to enhance our
comprehension of how music videos can effectively communicate complex
symbolic messages through the application of semiotic analysis.
