+82
Jung Jinhyeong
Navigating Selfishness and Isolation in Jung Jinhyeong's '+82'
Jung Jinhyeong's song '+82' delves into themes of isolation, selfishness, and the complexities of modern communication. The title itself, '+82', is the international dialing code for South Korea, hinting at the global yet disconnected nature of contemporary relationships. The lyrics open with a stark self-assessment, 'Yeah, I'm a bastard, I have a bad attitude,' setting the tone for a candid exploration of the artist's internal struggles and interpersonal dynamics.
The repeated mention of 'jeonhwa geolryeomyeon ipryeokhae +82' (when I make a call, it's +82) underscores the sense of distance and disconnection. Despite the ease of communication in the digital age, the artist feels a profound sense of isolation, as indicated by lines like 'It's a bad timing' and 'jigeutjigeuthago saineun ppikkeutppikkeut' (it's really annoying, the connection is choppy). This reflects a broader commentary on how technology can sometimes exacerbate feelings of loneliness rather than alleviate them.
The chorus reveals a deeper layer of self-awareness and vulnerability. Phrases like 'nado ara naneun selfish' (I know I'm selfish) and 'geurae naneun wonrae honjaya honja' (yes, I was originally alone) highlight the artist's recognition of his own flaws and the resulting emotional isolation. The song's candid lyrics and catchy melody create a poignant juxtaposition, making '+82' a reflective piece on the challenges of maintaining genuine connections in a fast-paced, digitally-driven world.