On May 24, 2025, Kim Namjoon, better known as RM from the global K-pop sensation BTS, released his highly anticipated solo track “LOST!” as part of his second studio album Right Place, Wrong Person. The music video for the song, directed by the renowned Wong Kar Wai, has received immense praise for its artistic vision, leading to it securing second place in the Best Concept category at the 2025 Berlin Music Video Awards.
The Music Video’s Storytelling and Visual Aesthetics
The music video for “LOST!” is a cinematic journey that combines stunning visual artistry with deep, introspective storytelling. Filmed in multiple locations across South Korea and Hong Kong, the video follows RM on a metaphorical journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of loneliness, identity, and the internal struggles that come with fame. The video’s aesthetic is heavily influenced by Wong Kar Wai’s signature style, characterized by moody lighting, fragmented narrative sequences, and a sense of longing that resonates with the song’s lyrics.
One of the key visual motifs in the video is the use of mirrors and reflections, symbolizing RM’s internal conflict and search for his true self in a world that constantly demands more from him. Throughout the video, he interacts with distorted reflections of himself, which adds layers to the visual narrative, mirroring the lyrics of the song, which talk about feeling lost within one’s own identity.
The video also incorporates elements of traditional Korean and modern urban aesthetics, blending the old and new to reflect the contrast between RM’s roots and the global fame he has achieved. The juxtaposition of traditional architecture with the neon lights of modern cities serves as a visual representation of RM’s journey as both an individual and a public figure.
The Song’s Themes and Lyrics
“LOST!” is a deeply introspective track that deals with RM’s personal experiences of feeling lost in the pursuit of success. The song’s lyrics reflect the internal struggles of navigating fame, especially in an industry that often prizes perfection and public image over authenticity. RM sings about the emptiness and disconnection that can come with being constantly in the spotlight, as well as the emotional toll that fame takes on his relationships with friends and family.
The track also touches on themes of self-acceptance and growth, as RM acknowledges that the journey of self-discovery is ongoing. The raw honesty in his lyrics has resonated with fans worldwide, with many seeing the song as a continuation of RM’s exploration of mental health and emotional vulnerability, themes he has addressed in previous BTS songs like “Reflection” and “The Truth Untold.”
The Collaboration with Wong Kar Wai
The decision to work with Wong Kar Wai, one of Asia’s most celebrated filmmakers, was a bold one for RM, and it paid off creatively. Known for his work on films like In the Mood for Love and Chungking Express, Wong’s involvement added a cinematic depth to the music video that elevated it beyond the typical K-pop visual. The collaboration between RM and Wong Kar Wai represents a blending of two cultural forces—K-pop and international cinema—that have reached global audiences.
Wong Kar Wai’s aesthetic sensibilities, combined with RM’s personal storytelling, created a music video that feels like a short film. The video is visually striking, emotionally resonant, and intellectually stimulating, making it a standout in the 2025 music video landscape.
Critical Reception and Awards
Upon its release, “LOST!” was met with widespread acclaim not only for its visual storytelling but also for the emotional depth of the song itself. Music critics have praised RM’s ability to connect with listeners on a personal level, something that sets him apart as a solo artist. The music video has already been shared millions of times across social media platforms, and RM’s performance has garnered praise for its vulnerability and authenticity.
The recognition at the 2025 Berlin Music Video Awards is a testament to the creative vision behind the song and its video. As the second-place winner in the Best Concept category, “LOST!” has proven that RM is not just a K-pop idol but an artist capable of creating meaningful, globally resonant art.