BTS’ ARIRANG comeback is here, and fans can’t keep calm. The title track, ‘SWIM’, is an all-English single with a gorgeous music video, released on March 20, 2026. Set in the background of the sea and maritime life, the septet portrays a group of sailors navigating an endless ocean. While there are many interpretations of the video, actress Lili Reinhart’s presence has received special attention from fans who enjoy analysing music videos. Read on for more information!
What Is Lili Reinhart’s Role In The SWIM MV From BTS’ ARIRANG?
The actress, known for playing Betty in Riverdale, has a unique characterisation in the ‘SWIM’ music video. Instead of being a tangible entity or an actual person, Lili Reinhart seems symbolic of deep yearning. Usually, a famous actor’s presence suggests a possible romance in a video. Defying expectations, BTS centers her as an unreachable yet omnipresent feeling of reaching for something beyond one’s grasp.
With very little actual interaction between Lili and BTS, at least at first, one might posit that she is in another dimension. Beginning with the actress at a maritime museum (said to be in Portugal), she finds herself on a turbulent ship. It is heavily implied that the boat she is on is being veered by the ‘Dynamite’ group. Struggling to make her way out of the cabin and onto the deck, there is a thread of anxiety in her actions.
The only time she runs into one of her members is when she runs into V (Kim Tae Hyung) in a hallway, although neither notices the other. In a sense, the choppy ocean could be the state of the world, with BTS steering the ship towards still water. Here, perhaps Lili Reinhart is the stand-in for ARMY. Harried and lost, the group guides and helps lead them forward for a part of the journey. This theory has gained traction on X (formerly known as Twitter).
The physical manifestation of BTS’ emotional states during the time they weren’t together, Lili Reinhart’s presence is special. If she is portrayed to be the fans’ state of mind during the group’s military service, that means a lot to fans who have stayed through the long break.
Also Read: BTS’ ARIRANG Comeback Has ARMY Obsessed But The English Title Track Divides Fans!
Actor Lili Reinhart is a fierce mental health advocate. Her 2020 poetry book, Swimming Lessons, touches upon this subject. As such, her casting in ‘SWIM’ makes perfect sense. No matter how one looks at it, the music video is well-made, and an emotional rollercoaster for long-term ARMYs. As of publishing, the MV has accumulated 14.6 million views on YouTube.
Also Read: BTS’ SWIM MV Is A Breathtaking Blend Of Stunning Visuals And Vocal Brilliance!