Happy Birthday to Min Yoongi, better known as Suga of BTS and Agust D.

This track, which serves as a pivotal moment in the Map of the Soul narrative, is heavily influenced by Carl Jung’s concept of the ‘shadow’—the repressed and often darker side of the self. Through its introspective lyrics, haunting production, and visually striking music video, Interlude: Shadow paints a visceral picture of the inner conflicts that come with fame. It also serves as an intersection between his two personas, blending the introspective vulnerability of Suga with the raw confrontation of Agust D.

The Shadow: A Concept by Carl Jung

Before delving into the song, let’s understand what Jung meant by the ‘shadow.’ Jung, a Swiss psychologist, described the shadow as the unconscious part of our psyche—comprising traits, fears, and desires we reject or suppress. Often, our shadow contains aspects of ourselves we may not want to confront, yet it inevitably influences our emotions and actions.

Jung’s concept of the shadow is part of a larger framework known as the Map of the Soul, which outlines the structure of the human psyche. This framework includes:

- Persona: The mask we wear to present ourselves to the world, shaped by societal expectations.
- Ego: The conscious mind, the ‘I’ we identify with.
- Shadow: The unconscious self, where repressed desires and fears reside.
- Anima/Animus: The inner feminine side of a man (anima) and the inner masculine side of a woman (animus), representing deeper emotional truths.
- Self: The ultimate goal of personal growth, where all aspects of the psyche—both conscious and unconscious—are integrated into a balanced whole.

For an artist like Suga, who has climbed to unimaginable heights, the shadow manifests as fears of losing himself in success, of reaching the top only to feel more isolated than before. Interlude: Shadow is an open dialogue with this unseen self, questioning the cost of his ambitions and the parts of himself he may have suppressed in his rise to fame.

The Lyrics

The song’s opening lines are deceptively simple: “I wanna be a rap star, I wanna be the top”. These words echo the unfiltered ambition of a young dreamer. But as the track unfolds, the tone shifts: “Don’t let me fly, now I’m scared. Don’t let me shine.”—a plea that reveals the anxiety accompanying his rise. The shadow speaks, acknowledging that with great success comes the fear of falling.

One of the most haunting lines in the song—“But my growing shadow swallows me and becomes a monster”—depicts how unchecked ambition and fame can consume a person. This mirrors Jung’s idea that the shadow, when left unacknowledged, can overtake the self and become overwhelming.

As the song progresses, Yoongi acknowledges the inevitable clash between his desires and fears: “The moment I faced myself brought the lowest / It so happens that I'm flying the highest.” This paradox reflects the tension between his public success and private struggles. Facing one’s shadow can be painful, yet it is necessary for growth.

The lyrics also address an internal debate, with the shadow challenging him: “All the things you wanted, you've got it all / So what's the problem? Just enjoy it / Or just let it go, no? Then run, or stop / Don't whine, just choose one or the other.” These words sound almost mocking, as if his own mind is questioning why he cannot simply be satisfied with his achievements.

Toward the end, the confrontation reaches its climax: “We are one body, sometimes we will clash / You can never break me off, this you must know.” This is the moment of reckoning—Yoongi acknowledges that he cannot escape his shadow. It is a part of him, inseparable from his identity. The final acceptance, “Yeah, yeah, can't break me off, whatever you do / Yeah, you'll be at ease if you admit it too”, suggests that true peace comes from embracing one’s shadow rather than fighting it.

This duality of yearning and dread is a recurring theme in Agust D’s discography. In The Last, he lays bare his struggles with mental health and fame, while Amygdala unearths painful memories. Here, in Interlude: Shadow, he personifies the push and pull between his public persona and inner fears.

Check out the full lyrics here.

The Music

The production of Interlude: Shadow mirrors the song’s lyrical battle. It begins with a slow, almost hypnotic melody, reminiscent of a confession. As the track progresses, the beat intensifies, growing chaotic, echoing the sense of spiraling out of control.

Unlike traditional hip-hop tracks, Interlude: Shadow weaves elements of rock and electronic distortions, adding an unsettling, almost suffocating atmosphere. This distortion reflects the turmoil of an artist losing grip on his sense of self.

This sonic chaos is part of a larger thematic trilogy within Map of the Soul: 7, where Persona (by RM) explores the external self, Shadow (by Suga) delves into inner fears, and Ego (by J-Hope) embraces self-acceptance. RM’s Persona is bright and bold, reflecting the masks we wear to interact with the world. J-Hope’s Ego, on the other hand, is celebratory and upbeat, symbolizing acceptance of all aspects of oneself. Shadow sits between them—a confrontation with the parts of ourselves we’d rather ignore, serving as the bridge between wearing a mask and fully embracing one’s true identity.

The contrast in sound across these three tracks highlights their thematic connection. While Persona is energetic and declarative, and Ego is vibrant and optimistic, Shadow is brooding and tumultuous. Together, they create a complete arc—one that reflects Jung’s psychological framework, guiding the listener through the journey of self-discovery.

The Music Video

Embracing the Shadow

Interlude: Shadow is more than just a song—it is a deeply introspective piece that lays bare the cost of ambition. Through its haunting lyrics, turbulent sound, and symbolic visuals, Suga brings Jung’s concept of the shadow to life, exposing the battle between the self we project and the fears we suppress. The song doesn’t offer easy answers because there are none. Instead, it presents the raw truth: the shadow is an inseparable part of who we are.

For Min Yoongi, this struggle is ongoing. As an artist who has climbed to staggering heights, he must constantly negotiate with his shadow, questioning whether success is worth the sacrifices it demands. Yet, through this confrontation, there is a glimmer of resolution. By acknowledging the shadow rather than resisting it, he takes a step toward self-acceptance. The final takeaway isn’t about conquering fears but understanding that they coexist with ambition—that light and darkness are two halves of the same whole.

Perhaps that is the greatest lesson Interlude: Shadow offers: we do not need to defeat our shadow. We only need to recognize it, listen to it, and learn from it.

Somewhere along the way, silence became a problem to be solved. Sitting alone at a party? Someone must come to your rescue. Not participating in a group activity? Clearly, you need encouragement. Quietly enjoying your own space? Oh no, we can’t have that. Because in a world that glorifies constant interaction, stillness is mistaken for loneliness, and solitude is seen as a cry for help.

As an introvert, I’ve spent years dodging well-meaning but relentless attempts to make me more social, as if my natural state is something to be fixed. At social gatherings (the ones I can’t avoid, anyway), I’m perfectly happy sitting in a corner, observing, or simply existing without feeling the need to contribute to the collective noise. But that’s rarely an option. Someone always thinks they’re doing me a favor by dragging me into a conversation, a party game, or—worst of all—to the dance floor. Because in their mind, I can’t possibly be enjoying myself if I’m not talking, moving, or otherwise proving my engagement.

It’s exhausting. And frankly, it’s time for a perspective shift.

This blog post isn’t about how introverts can “come out of their shells.” It’s not another list of ways we can learn to navigate a world that never stops talking. We have enough of those already. No, this is for the extroverts—the ones who thrive on energy, who can’t stand silence, who equate stillness with boredom, and who feel the need to fill every moment with noise.

Let’s flip the script. What if, instead of pushing introverts to be louder, extroverts learned to be quieter? What if you discovered that peace exists beyond constant conversation? That silence doesn’t need to be awkward, and not everyone is desperate to be included?

This is your guide to embracing the lost art of silence and, more importantly, learning when to just let introverts be.

No, We’re Not Broken: Myths About Introverts

For some reason, introversion is often treated like an unfortunate condition—something that needs to be fixed, managed, or overcome.

“You should speak up more!”

“You just need to get out more...”
“You’d have more fun if you joined in!” 

“You just need to come out of your shell!”

These are the well-meaning but utterly exhausting phrases introverts hear all the time.

So, let’s set the record straight. Here are some of the most persistent myths about introverts—debunked, once and for all.

1. Introverts are just shy.

No, introversion and shyness are not the same thing. Shyness is about fear of social judgment, while introversion is about energy. An introvert can be completely comfortable speaking in front of a crowd and still want to go home afterward and sit in silence for three hours.

2. Introverts don’t like people.

We like people. We just don’t like all people, all the time, in all settings. There’s a difference. Introverts value deep, meaningful connections, but the idea of filling every silence with small talk is pure torture.

3. Introverts don’t have fun.

Just because we don’t express excitement the same way extroverts do doesn’t mean we’re not enjoying ourselves. We don’t need to scream, jump, or dance to confirm that we’re having a good time. Sometimes, the best kind of fun is sitting in a quiet café, reading a book, or having a one-on-one conversation that doesn’t involve yelling over loud music.

4. Introverts are bad at socializing.

Introverts can be great at socializing. They just do it differently. Instead of bouncing from one person to another, they prefer quality over quantity—fewer interactions, but deeper ones. Also, they don’t believe in talking just for the sake of talking. Silence is perfectly fine, and no, it’s not awkward.

5. Introverts need to ‘come out of their shell.’

This is probably the most frustrating myth of them all. There is no “shell.” This is our personality. An introvert sitting quietly in a group isn’t waiting to be “saved” from themselves. They’re just… fine. Imagine that.

6. Introverts don’t like attention.

Not necessarily true. Some introverts love being in the spotlight—on their own terms. Many actors, musicians, and public speakers are introverts. The difference is, they need time to recharge afterward, whereas extroverts might thrive on the attention and seek more of it.

7. Introverts can’t be friends with extroverts.

Introverts and extroverts can be great friends—as long as there’s mutual respect. The key is understanding that introverts don’t always want to hang out, and that’s not a sign of disinterest. Sometimes, silence is just our way of being present. Almost all of my close friends are extroverts - they understand that I'd rather just observe than participate.

8. Introverts are always quiet.

Oh, we can be very loud—when we actually have something to say. Give an introvert a topic they’re passionate about, put them with the right people, or just catch them in the right mood, and they’ll talk your ear off. The difference? We don’t feel the need to fill silence. If there’s nothing important to say, we’re perfectly happy just existing in the moment.

Now that we’ve cleared up some misconceptions, let’s move on to the real challenge—helping extroverts embrace quiet and resist the urge to fix what isn’t broken.

Silence Isn’t Awkward—You Just Don’t Know What to Do With It

Let’s talk about silence. That vast, terrifying void where no one is talking, no music is playing, and—heaven forbid—no one is performing social energy exchanges every five seconds.

For some people, silence is peaceful. For others, it’s an unbearable abyss that must be filled with noise, chatter, or the first random thought that pops into their head (“So, uh… crazy weather, huh?”). If you fall into the second category, I have news for you: silence is not the enemy. You’ve just never learned how to sit with it.

Think about it. When was the last time you sat with someone in comfortable silence? No checking your phone, no feeling the urge to fill the gap, no background noise—just existing in the same space without pressure. If that idea makes you itch, then congratulations, you’ve just found your next personal growth challenge.

The truth is... silence only feels awkward if you believe it should be. But it doesn’t have to be. It’s just another form of communication—one that introverts are fluent in. Sometimes, the best moments aren’t the ones crammed with endless words, but the ones where you can just be.

Now, if you’re wondering, “Okay, but what am I supposed to do with silence?”—don’t worry, we’re getting there. Up next: a few practical tips on how to embrace quiet, respect introverts’ space, and maybe, just maybe, discover the joys of shutting up every once in a while.

How To Be Quiet (Without Exploding):

So, you’ve made it this far. You now know that introverts aren’t secretly miserable in silence, and you’ve accepted that not every moment needs to be filled with words. Great progress! But what now? How do you actually do quiet? How do you resist the overwhelming urge to fill every silence, drag introverts into activities, or—let’s be honest—just keep talking?

Don’t worry. I got you. Here are some practical ways to embrace quiet and, in turn, become the kind of extrovert that introverts actually enjoy being around.

1. Learn to sit with silence.

I know, I know. Silence feels weird at first. But instead of rushing to fill it, try sitting with it. Let a conversation pause without scrambling for a follow-up question. This maybe a perfect time to 'reflect' internally. Trust me, it won’t kill you.

2. Stop assuming quiet = uncomfortable.

If an introvert is sitting alone, they’re not silently begging you to rescue them. If a conversation has a lull, it doesn’t mean the vibe is ruined. If you let go of the idea that silence is awkward, you’ll realize it’s actually… peaceful.

3. Don’t force social activities on introverts.

Look, we get it—you love a good party game, group activity, or spontaneous karaoke session. Good for you. But if an introvert is clearly not interested, let them be. Stop with the “Come on, just try it!” If they wanted to, they would.

4. Lower your volume.

This one is simple. Just… talk a little softer. Not every conversation requires maximum enthusiasm, vocal projection, and hand gestures that could knock over a drink. Sometimes, a calm, normal-toned conversation is enough.

5. Respect the “Irish Exit.”

You know that moment when an introvert just disappears from the party without saying goodbye? That’s called an Irish Exit. And no, it’s not rude—it’s survival. If they’ve had enough socializing for the day, respect it. No dramatic “Where are you going?!” Just let them slip away in peace.

6. Be mindful of personal space.

Some extroverts love physical touch—hugs, shoulder pats, leaning in close. Introverts? Not always. Before you invade an introvert’s bubble, read the room. If they stiffen up when you go in for a hug, maybe… don’t.

7. Give introverts time to warm up.

Introverts don’t always jump into conversations with the same energy as extroverts. Instead of bombarding them with questions or expecting instant engagement, let them ease into it. The more comfortable they feel, the more likely they are to actually want to interact.

8. Accept that “No” is a complete sentence.

If an introvert declines an invitation, don’t push. Don’t guilt-trip. Don’t launch into “But why not? It’ll be so much fun!” Just accept the answer and move on. They’ll appreciate you for it.

9. Text first. Always.

Before calling, or video calling, or just showing up, send a text. Give the introvert a chance to mentally prepare. Unannounced social interaction is a crime against introverts, punishable by days (or even months) of avoidance.

10. Try doing something quiet for a change.

Instead of planning yet another loud, high-energy gathering, try a low-key activity—reading in the same room, watching a movie without constant commentary, or just taking a quiet walk. You might be surprised how much you enjoy it.

At the end of the day, this isn’t about changing who you are. It’s just about recognizing that not everyone thrives in constant noise and interaction. Respecting introverts’ need for quiet isn’t just about making them comfortable—it’s also a chance for you to experience a different kind of peace.

So, take a deep breath. Embrace the silence. And maybe, just maybe, learn to enjoy the sound of nothing.

If you are into the K-Drama or Asian Drama scene, I think you have heard of this series already. It has the audience on tenterhooks ever since it dropped on Netflix. When the Phone Rings is a suspenseful series that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its mysterious plot line and characters that have depth. The series blends psychological thriller elements with a lot of family drama, though not without a few missteps in its narrative and execution.



The drama starts with an unexpected phone call that changes the lives of the characters, triggering a chain of events that lead them to uncover secrets, confront their pasts, and face their deepest fears. Chae Soo-bin as Hong Hee-joo is central to the unravelling of the mystery, delivering a captivating performance as a woman caught in a dangerous web of lies, conspiracy and their consequences. The premise initially intrigues the audience with the strong mysterious Baek Sa-eon and gentle and emotional Hong Hee-joo. 

However, while the show keeps you guessing, there are a few moments where the story feels convoluted, particularly in the later episodes, where plot twists may appear forced or less cohesive. Some unresolved threads left viewers wondering about the show’s intended message, making it harder to fully connect with the story by the end.

While the show starts strong, the plot eventually begins to stumble in certain areas. Several key moments appear too convenient or lack conviction, especially regarding character reactions. There are instances where Yoo Yeon-seok’s Baek Sa-eon seem surprisingly oblivious to what’s going on around him. Some of their decisions often feel out of place or unrealistic, making them appear too “dumb” to notice or understand what’s happening. This undermines the suspense and weakens the overall narrative.

The performances of the cast are undoubtedly one of the drama’s strongest points. Chae Soo-bin’s portrayal of Hong Hee-joo is gripping, capturing the internal struggles of her character with depth and subtlety. Yoo Yeon-seok as Baek Sa-eon delivers a nuanced performance, bringing complexity to his character’s journey of self-discovery and guilt. Heo Nam-Joon shines as Ji Sang-woo, offering moments of camaraderie and strength that resonate with viewers. Jang Gyu-ri as Na Yu-ri and Han Jae-Yi as Hong In-a both bring in some stability among all the volatile characters around them and with standout performances that add layers to the story. The chemistry between the cast, particularly between Chae Soo-bin and Yoo Yeon-seok, is palpable, making their complex relationship dynamic one of the most compelling aspects of the drama.

So, tell me, did you folks enjoy the show?

When Oxford announced manifest as its Word of the Year, it made sense. Manifesting has become a movement, a buzzword, a practice people swear by to bring their desires to life. Everywhere I looked, there were books, posts and ads on how to manifest what you want in life. It’s a beautiful idea—the act of turning thoughts into reality, creating the life you want through intention and action.

But here’s the thing: to manifest, you first need a vision. And to have a vision, you need a dream.

I started 2025 with 4 words/advice from 2 of my favourite artists -

- Dream: Well, that is what this post all about; my word of the year. So read on...

Dreams are like the seeds, the starting point where the life you imagine begins to take shape. Without a dream, the act of manifesting is like trying to build a house without a foundation. And so, as I start this new year looking forward to a little bit more of healing, growth, and rediscovery, I’ve decided to go back to the very beginning and make dream my Word of the Year.

Reclaiming the Word ‘Dream’

Whether it is due to the trajectory of my own life or the society around us, my ability to dream was suffocated by an atmosphere of suppression, manipulation and gaslighting. Whether it was the general attitude of people or very directed projections of people, {some of you might be able to relate to it} but trying to live up to the expectations and the image of a 'good girl/woman' was very suffocating. Somebody else always took the priority - their expectations and needs always came first because a good girl always puts others first. 

Dreams were dangerous in that world—either dismissed as foolish or selfish. Survival took precedence over imagination and by the time I realised that I had hit the rock bottom, I realised it was because I was never anyone's priority and that hypocrisy finally taught me to put myself first. Now, having stepped into relative freedom, I realize how crucial dreaming is. It’s not just about imagining a better future; it’s about reclaiming the right to hope, to desire, and to create a different life for myself.

Dreaming is my way of rewriting the narrative that once kept me small. It’s a declaration that I am no longer living in the shadow of someone else’s story.

A Year of Dreams

This year, my focus is on nurturing my ability to dream, starting with small steps:

1. Dream - Healing

Every dream I allow myself is an act of defiance against the years I was told to put it on hold or that I couldn’t. Dreaming is a way to heal the wounds of doubt and fear, replacing them with hope and possibility.

2. Dream - Rediscovery

- What does freedom look like for me?
- What do I truly want?
- What do I actually love?
- How much am I actually capable of?
Dreaming is my way of exploring these questions and learning to embrace my desires unapologetically.

3. Dream - Freedom

Freedom, like happiness is relative. I still have responsibilities that I can not ignore and limited resources. So, there are still some boundaries. But how can I use the freedom that I have? How far can I really go? But I can Dream and I do have the freedom to choose how to live my life - what responsibilities I truly want and what resources I want to use.

What My Dreams Look Like Now

Dreams don’t have to be grand to matter. For me, they are about building a life that feels authentic, fulfilling, and whole. Little things that makes choosing happiness everyday everyday. Right now, they look like:

• Becoming healthy in both body and mind. 
• Waking up every morning with a sense of purpose.
• Growing my career in a way that aligns with my values.
  
•         Finding out what it is that I genuinely enjoy.
• Surrounding myself with people who genuinely support and uplift me.
•         Leaving behind people who only add negativity and unrealistic expectations.
• Continue traveling to places I’ve only ever seen in pictures.
• Writing my story—and no I don't mean on pen and paper, but to own it and honor my journey.

An Invitation to Dream

If manifesting is about bringing your dreams to life, then dreaming is the foundation where it all begins. If you’ve ever felt like dreaming wasn’t for you—whether out of fear, doubt, or survival—I understand. But I also know that reclaiming the ability to dream is transformative.

This year, I invite you to join me in making dream your focus. Let it inspire you to imagine the life you want, to rediscover your hopes, and to plant the seeds of possibility.

Because no matter how much time you’ve lost, it’s never too late to dream again—and to let those dreams take flight.