
korean Joongang Daily
Bruno Mars and Rosé of BLACKPINK have collaborated to create this year’s musical sensation with a rhythmic and catchy melody, titled, “APT”. Released on October 18, 2024, this song inspired by a Korean drinking game, showcases the unique blend of their musical styles and introduces a fascinating aspect of Korean culture for listeners.
Musically, APT is characterized as an upbeat pop-punk sound, featuring vintage pop-rock riffs and an addictive melody. Critics have praised this collaboration, with NME giving it a five-star rating and calling it a “luminous banger” filled with playful energy. Similarly, Vogue highlighted the vocal harmony between Rosé and Bruno Mars, describing it as a “pop funk delight” that fans will love!
“Apt.” comes from the Korean word “아파트” (pronounced “apateu”), meaning “apartment.” The song draws inspiration from a popular Korean drinking game known as the “apartment game.” In this game, players stack their hands together while one person calls out their apartment floor number. As the players count up to the number, they remove their hands one by one; the player with their hand at the top must take a drink. This interactive game served as the perfect backdrop idea for the main lyrics of the song.
Rosé explained in multiple interviews that the idea for the song came about during a studio session where she introduced her crew members to the game. “It’s so simple, puts a smile on your face, and breaks the ice at any party,” she said.
Since its debut, “APT” has made waves on music charts internationally. Currently trending as one of the UK’s biggest songs, it is expected to debut at Number 6 on the official singles chart – potentially marking Rosé’s highest chart position. This success highlights her growth as a solo artist and demonstrates Bruno Mars’ continued relevance in the music industry. The collaboration sparked a conversation about cross-cultural partnerships in music.
Fans from both artists’ backgrounds celebrated this unique blend of Western pop and K-pop influences. Social media platforms have been buzzing with fan-made videos showcasing multiple dance challenges.
With its rhythmic chorus and cultural significance, “APT.” has captured the hearts of many fans globally. The collaboration paved the way as Rosé prepares for her debut album Rosie, set to release on December 6, 2024. Whether you’re a fan of K-pop music or pop, this track is worth a listen!