The Real (멋)

ATEEZ's song 'The Real (멋)' is a vibrant showcase of the group's unique style and musical bravado, wrapped in the traditional and modern fusion that characterizes much of their work. The song's title, '멋', translates to 'style' or 'swagger' in English, and this is precisely what ATEEZ aims to convey through both the lyrics and their energetic performance.

The lyrics of 'The Real' oscillate between self-assurance and a call to humility, creating a dynamic tension that reflects the dual nature of being an artist in the spotlight. Phrases like '우린 뜨겁게 살아 허나 누구보다 더 humble and kindness' (We live passionately, yet more humble and kind than anyone else) emphasize the balance ATEEZ strives for between confidence and groundedness. This duality is further highlighted by the repeated calls to 'keep it up' and the respectful bows, suggesting a deep-rooted cultural respect mixed with the modern flair of K-pop.

The song also addresses the themes of recognition and authenticity with lines like '진짜는 말이야 (real recognize real)', pointing out the importance of genuine character in a world often dominated by appearances. ATEEZ uses traditional Korean idioms and modern slang seamlessly, bridging generational and cultural gaps, thus inviting a diverse audience to understand and appreciate the '멋' or 'coolness' they bring to the global music scene.