In the vibrant landscape of K-pop, where music videos generalmente linger between 3 to 5 minutes, a select few stretch the format to its limits. Spanning over 10 minutes, these standout pieces transform into cinematic experiences, immersing viewers in rich narratives and stunning visuals that go far beyond mere music. Let’s explore some epic K-pop music videos that have gone above and beyond, offering fans an unforgettable journey.
IU – Every End of the Day
Leading the pack is IU with “Every End of the Day,” a 26:55-minute experience that has set the record as the longest K-pop music video ever. It feels more like a documentary-style short film, blending music with an intricate story.
T-ara – Lovey-Dovey
Known for their lengthy visuals, T-ara elevates storytelling to new heights with “Lovey-Dovey.” Clocking in at 20:32 minutes, this MV proficiently intertwines narrative and choreography, drawing viewers into their world.
TXT – Eternally
With “Eternally,” TXT presents a 19:31-minute delve into surreal realms, exploring themes of shared trauma and alternate realities that keep fans puzzling over its deeper meanings.
TVXQ – Before U Go (Drama Ver.)
Blending suspense with emotion, TVXQ delivers the noir-inspired “Before U Go” in a 16:02-minute drama version. It features action and betrayal, set against the backdrop of their powerful vocals.
T-ara – DAY BY DAY
Set in a dystopian future, “DAY BY DAY” narrates a poignant tale of rebellion and lost love. This 15:58-minute epic is packed with stunning visuals, sword fights, and unexpected twists, captivating audiences throughout.
T-ara – Cry Cry
The gripping “Cry Cry” serves up a riveting story of betrayal and vengeance in a 15:49-minute duration, featuring intense action sequences alongside a nuanced emotional arc.
T-ara – Sexy Love (Drama Ver.)
Picking up where “DAY BY DAY” left off, “Sexy Love” weaves in androids, lab escapes, and emotional confrontations in a dramatic 14:55-minute conclusion to the storyline.
TXT – Magic Island
In “Magic Island,” TXT blurs the line between the ethereal and the nightmarish in a haunting 13:34-minute music video that captivates with its symbolism.
T-ara – Roly Poly
Nostalgic and funky, “Roly Poly” offers a delightful trip down memory lane with its 12:33-minute visual extravaganza set in disco-era Seoul, wrapping viewers in an endearing storyline.
CRAXY – Dance with God
With a bold narrative, “Dance with God” by CRAXY serves up an electrifying 10:35 minutes of rebellion and power that keeps adrenaline levels high.
SG WANNABE – Timeless
Featuring actors Kim Yun-jin and Kim Nam-jin, “Timeless” encapsulates a heartbreaking love story within its 10:06-minute runtime, providing a poignant mini-movie experience.
B.A.P – SKYDIVE
Finally, B.A.P concludes our list with “SKYDIVE,” a stylish 10:05-minute music video brimming with action, loyalty, and revenge, encapsulating the essence of a high-stakes crime saga.
These long-form music videos illustrate that in the world of K-pop, sometimes, 3 to 5 minutes simply isn’t sufficient to convey the depth and complexity of a story.
