V has finally dropped “FRI(END)S.”
The song, which features the BTS member lamenting the highs and lows of a situationship, is his first release of this year. “FRI(END)S” follows his collaboration with Japanese-American singer-songwriter UMI, “wherever u r.” The song is also his first single since his debut EP Layover, which was released in September of last year. The “FRI(END)S” drop also includes an instrumental, sped up, and slowed down version of the track. He followed a similar release style with the additional versions of “wherever u r” that was released earlier this year.
Earlier this year, he also teamed up with IU for the music video of her lead single off The Winning, “Love Wins All.” The single was originally titled “Love Wins,” but was met with backlash. “We decided to change the title to respect and support everyone who loves in their various ways, and we accept the opinions of those who express concerns that precious messages might be blurred due to the title,” EDAM Entertainment wrote in a press statement. V also released behind the scenes photos of the music video shoot shortly after.
V is currently serving his mandatory military service as part of South Korean government policy. He enlisted in December of last year alongside RM, Jungkook, and Jimin. Most members of BTS will return from their service in 2025, with Jin and J-Hope concluding their contract in 2024.
Watch V’s music video for “FRI(END)S” below: