After a seven-year hiatus, G-Dragon (GD, Kwon Ji-yong) has finally released his solo album POWER, igniting a passionate response from Korean fans.

Alongside the album drop, he made an appearance on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block, where he broke his silence in the media and opened up about his time away and what inspired his return.

Explaining the theme of POWER, GD shared, “The song is about power. Over the past seven years, as a bystander, I came to realize just how influential the media can be. The album reflects satire on media power while also carrying the message of harmonizing various forms of power.”

Notably, from the latter half of 2023 to early 2024,

GD endured intense scrutiny from the Korean media due to a drug scandal. He experienced what many saw as a “witch hunt” fueled by accusations and media hype, leading him to express his pain and resilience through his music. During this turbulent period, numerous YouTube videos circulated alleging that his signature gestures were “drug-induced behaviors,” causing many to believe the rumors.

However, in October 2024,

GD was officially cleared of all charges regarding drug use. Demonstrating his commitment to personal growth and resilience, he responded by founding Justice Foundation, dedicated to combatting drug abuse and supporting youth in addiction recovery. It seems that his inner strength and unwavering mindset have shaped the GD we know today.

As a trendsetter in rap, song, dance, and fashion over his 18-year career, G-Dragon has earned a place in Korean hearts far beyond that of a mere artist—he’s become an icon and a cultural phenomenon.

Korean Reactions to the New Song *POWER*

– “Did he ever lose his touch? Nope. Absolutely amazing!”
– “With over 40,000 comments, usually it’s all English, but seeing so much Korean means that Koreans really do love GD.”
– “GD being GD—that’s it. He’s the idol of idols, a once-in-a-century creative genius. Even after a seven-year break, he’s on another level, and people flock to him like he’s a magnet. Unreal.”
– “The single-take filming really feels like it’s saying, ‘You only live once.’ The lyrics fit perfectly with that theme, showing his true, free-spirited self. So philosophical.”
– “Seriously, he’s born to be a star… the beat is insane!”

Like part of the lyrics from ‘POWER’…

‘I am beautiful because I am myself’ = Ultimately, the power he refers to means ‘individuality,’ and ‘88 (fly high)’ = flying represents ‘freedom.’ This makes me reconsider the message G-Dragon wanted to convey to the public.

Currently, the K-POP charts are heating up. It’s been a while since various artists have competed, delighting listeners with their music.

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