Two Stars, One Song, Infinite Emotion
What happens when two of Korea’s most beloved vocalists tackle the same beloved ballad? Magic—just of distinctly different flavors. BTS’s V and trot-ballad hybrid king Lim Young-woong recently each put their spin on ‘Drunken Truth’, a melancholic ballad originally sung by Kim Dong-ryul, and fans couldn’t get enough.
V’s Version: Pure Emotion and Velvet Vocals
Back in an episode of Run BTS in 2021, V surprised fans by singing ‘Drunken Truth’ with the kind of soul that only comes from seasoned stage experience. His deep, warm timbre carried the song with a kind of restrained vulnerability that pulled at heartstrings. BTS’s V has always been praised for his emotive voice, but this performance reminded fans that he’s more than just a visual—he’s a vocalist with nuance.
Lim Young-woong’s Take: Passion and Power
Meanwhile, Lim Young-woong took to the stage on TV Chosun’s PPONG School and made the same song feel like an entirely different emotional journey. Known for his ballads and trot flair, Lim poured every ounce of emotion into the lyrics, delivering each line like a heartfelt confession. His fans praised the performance as “soul-touching,” revealing how his crossover vocal prowess can transcend genre lines without missing a beat.
Different, Not Competing: Two Views on One Truth
This wasn’t a battle—it was a masterclass in interpretation. Where V whispered emotion with every note, Lim projected it with poetic force. The contrast only makes both versions more enjoyable. As one fan on social media put it, “It’s not about better or worse—just different colors in the same rainbow.”
Fan Buzz and Netizen Awards Rankings
Both artists are staying top of mind thanks to their consistent popularity. In this September’s Netizen Awards, Lim Young-woong ranked 19th in the Male Singer category, while BTS placed 8th in the Best Group category. With millions of fans rooting for them, their next moves are already being closely watched.
