Reference (참고사항)

LEE MU JIN's song 'Reference (참고사항)' delves into the internal conflict of maintaining one's authenticity in a world that constantly imposes its expectations and judgments. The lyrics express a deep sense of frustration and resistance against societal pressures to conform. The repeated lines '듣고 싶지 않은데, 듣고 싶지 않은데' (I don't want to hear it, I don't want to hear it) and '웃고 싶지 않은데, 웃고 싶지 않은데' (I don't want to smile, I don't want to smile) highlight the artist's reluctance to accept and internalize the unsolicited advice and forced positivity that society often demands.

The song emphasizes the importance of respecting individual feelings and perspectives, as seen in the lines '우리 마음 하나하나 다 소중한 거예요, 존중받아야 해요' (Each of our hearts is precious, they deserve respect). Despite the societal insistence on following certain norms, the artist asserts that these external opinions are merely '참고사항' (references) and should not dictate one's actions or emotions. This sentiment is reinforced with the repeated declaration '저는 그게 싫어요' (I don't like it), underscoring a strong personal stance against conforming to external pressures.

Furthermore, the song critiques the superficiality and lack of genuine understanding in societal interactions. The line '솔직하고 담백한 표정을 지어도 그대는 속이 텅 비어있어요' (Even if you put on an honest and plain expression, you are empty inside) suggests that many people hide their true selves behind facades, leading to hollow and insincere relationships. LEE MU JIN's 'Reference' serves as a powerful reminder to stay true to oneself and to value personal authenticity over societal approval, encouraging listeners to view external opinions as mere references rather than absolute truths.