The Drinking Game Behind ‘APT.’: How ROSÉ and Bruno Mars’ Viral Hit Connects to Korean Culture
BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ and American pop sensation Bruno Mars are making headlines with their new single, “APT.” which has garnered worldwide attention since its release on October 18, 2024. The track features an irresistible chorus and is influenced by the lively Korean drinking culture. “APT.” serves as the lead single from ROSÉ’s highly anticipated debut studio album, Rosie, set to debut later in 2024.
The Inspiration Behind “APT.”
The catchy chorus of “APT.” centers on the word “apartment” (pronounced “apateu” in Korean) and is inspired by a popular Korean drinking game known as the “APT game.” ROSÉ has a personal connection to this game, explaining, “It’s my favorite Korean drinking game that I enjoy with friends. It's straightforward, brings smiles, and is a fantastic way to break the ice at any gathering.” During a creative studio session, she introduced the game to her crew, sparking the idea of transforming it into a song. With Bruno's collaboration, the concept quickly evolved into what we now know as “APT.”
How to Play the APT Game
- Game Start!
Kick off the fun by chanting, “[Player’s Name]’s favorite game, game start!” This joyful phrase creates an inviting atmosphere, promising a night filled with laughter and camaraderie.
- Sing-Along to “Apateu, Apateu”
As the catchy chorus plays, everyone sings “Apateu” while waving their hands in a rhythmic, horizontal pattern. Repeat this chant three times to engage everyone in the group.
- Count It Up!
To begin this round, everyone moves their hands to the center to stack them on top of each other. The player taking their turn then announces a number (for example, “5”). Each player then takes their turn moving their hand from the bottom of the stack to the top, counting up until they reach the chosen number.
- Drink!
When the counting ends, the player whose hand lands on top must take a drink or shot, adding an element of excitement and suspense to the game.
- Finish the Game
Continue the game until everyone has taken a shot, ensuring that all players get a chance to join in on the fun!
Other Popular Korean Drinking Games
The excitement surrounding “APT.” also brings attention to various other entertaining Korean drinking games that enhance social gatherings. Here are some noteworthy examples:
- High-Low | 하이-로우 (ha-i-lo-u)
Have you heard that the caps from soju bottles can also be used for fun drinking games? After opening a bottle, flip the cap over to see a number inside. Assign someone to announce a range based on that number, and players will guess what it is. The person holding the cap will hint if they should go higher or lower. Those who guess incorrectly must drink!
- 3-6-9 | 삼육구 (sam-yuk-gu)
Players count aloud from one but must clap instead of saying any number containing the digits three, six, or nine. Making a mistake means taking a drink, adding to the competitive spirit.
Learn More: 5 Korean Drinking Games for a Fun Night Out with Friends
Conclusion
The collaboration between ROSÉ and Bruno Mars in “APT.” not only delivers a catchy anthem but also immerses listeners in the rich and vibrant world of Korean drinking culture. As the song continues to resonate with fans worldwide, it reflects a growing trend: learning the Korean language. Many fans are motivated to understand their idols better, enjoy Korean dramas without subtitles, or simply acquire a valuable language skill for the future.
As you gather your friends to try out these games, consider diving into the Korean language as well. Embracing both the music and the culture can lead to laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories—truly embodying the spirit of “APT.”
Ready to take the plunge? Join the ONLYOU Korean class now and start your journey to mastering Korean today!
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