BTS’ “Boy With Luv” (ft. Halsey) Music Video Has Surpassed 1.1 Billion Views

BTS’ iconic track “Boy With Luv” featuring American singer Halsey has achieved yet another historic milestone, surpassing 1.1 billion views on YouTube. This incredible feat cements the music video as one of the most successful and beloved releases in BTS’ prolific career. Since its debut on April 12, 2019, “Boy With Luv” has become a cultural phenomenon, both musically and visually, resonating with ARMY and casual listeners around the world.

The song was released as the lead single from their critically acclaimed album “Map of the Soul: Persona”, a project that explored themes of identity, growth, and the journey of self-discovery. “Boy With Luv” signaled a new era for BTS, one defined by a softer, more introspective look at love, not the wild, consuming love of youth, but a more mature and peaceful kind of affection. The Korean title of the song, “작은 것들을 위한 시” (translated as “A Poem for Small Things”), captures this essence beautifully: it’s a love letter to the seemingly mundane, but deeply meaningful, details that make life beautiful.

One of the most remarkable elements of “Boy With Luv” was its collaboration with Halsey, a globally recognized American artist. Unlike many Western-Korean collaborations where the featured artist contributes only a small part, Halsey was featured throughout the video and participated in the choreography as well. Her seamless integration into BTS’ world symbolized a successful and respectful collaboration between East and West. Their performance together at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards was a historic moment, as it was the first time BTS performed the track live on an American stage with Halsey. That performance alone helped bridge cultural gaps and attract even more international attention.

From the moment of its release, the “Boy With Luv” music video broke records left and right. Within 24 hours, it garnered 74.6 million views, becoming the most viewed online music video in a single day at the time, a record that stunned the music industry and solidified BTS’ digital dominance. It surpassed the previous record held by another global sensation, setting a new bar for online engagement and viewership.

As of now, the music video has amassed over 20 million likes, making it the second most liked BTS video on YouTube after “Dynamite,” which boasts over 23.4 million likes. This massive show of support is not just a number, it reflects a deeply loyal and enthusiastic fanbase, ARMY, who continue to show unwavering love for the group.

The aesthetic of the music video plays a crucial role in its lasting impact. Drenched in vibrant pastels, warm lighting, and retro theater sets, “Boy With Luv” is a visual treat. It features the BTS members in joyful and playful spirits, dancing with infectious energy and charm. The choreography is light-hearted and fun, making it widely accessible for fans to learn and recreate. Combined with Halsey’s presence and an uplifting chorus, the video encapsulates the spirit of youthful wonder and genuine affection.

Lyrically, “Boy With Luv” contrasts BTS’ earlier hit “Boy in Luv,” which was more intense and aggressive in its portrayal of romantic feelings. “Boy With Luv” shows how far the group has come, not just in their careers, but in their personal growth. The song reflects on the beauty of the small things in life, the gentle comfort of familiarity, and the appreciation for someone who makes life brighter. Lines like “Oh my my my / You got me high so fast / I want to be with you for everything” exude warmth and sincerity.

Many fans interpret the lyrics as a message to ARMY, with BTS expressing gratitude for the unwavering support they’ve received throughout the years. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the fanbase that has stood by them through every triumph and challenge. That emotional connection between artist and audience is one of the key reasons BTS has maintained such massive global popularity.

“Boy With Luv” was not just a visual and artistic success; it was a commercial juggernaut. It debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it BTS’ highest-charting song at the time and a significant milestone for Korean artists in the Western music industry. The song also topped iTunes charts in over 60 countries, and the album “Map of the Soul: Persona” went on to become the best-selling album in South Korean history at the time of release.

The track received numerous accolades, including several Song of the Year and Best Collaboration awards in Korea and internationally. It was a radio favorite and widely used in television segments, commercials, and social media, further increasing its cultural footprint.

“Boy With Luv” continues to stand the test of time. It’s the kind of song that remains on playlists, gets rediscovered by new fans, and is celebrated in fan events, covers, and anniversaries. It marked a golden chapter in BTS’ career, one where they began dominating the world stage with their own message, language, and style.

As BTS continues to break boundaries and create more iconic content, “Boy With Luv” will always remain one of their most cherished and groundbreaking masterpieces.

On June 24, 2019, Billboard announced that the song had been certified Platinum by the RIAA. “Boy with Luv” held the record for the song with the most music show wins after the 2000s in South Korea with 21 wins, until the record was broken by “Dynamite”.