In a thrilling moment for NCTzens worldwide, NCT 127 has made a triumphant return with the release of their 5th full album, Fact Check. The music video for Fact Check was also released at 3PM KST today. NCT 127 members Taeil, Taeyong, Johnny, Doyoung, Mark, Jaehyun, Haechan, Yuta, and Jungwoo were seen in the video performing the track.
Fact Check stands out as a rhythmical dance number that seamlessly blends powerful synth loops with Afrobeat elements, solidifying NCT 127’s reputation as trailblazers in the K-pop industry. The song’s lyrics emphasize their unwavering belief in their music and performance. The message is clear: they remain unfazed even when subjected to scrutiny or ‘fact checks’ by others.
The accompanying music video is a visual treat, showcasing a mix of traditional and futuristic settings. Filmed at various iconic locations in Seoul, including the historic Gyeongbok Palace and the modern Incheon Bridge, the video offers a blend of the past and the future, much like the song itself.
Check out the music video for Fact Check by NCT 127:
Controversies surrounding Fact Check music video
However, the album’s release hasn’t been without controversy. NCT 127’s music video for Fact Check was initially scheduled for release at 1PM KST. However, just five minutes past the expected release time, an announcement was made via the official Twitter account. NEO Production, in their statement, mentioned: “In order to raise the quality of completion of the music video, we unfortunately have to delay it to 3PM today.”
This sudden delay left fans frustrated, especially given the lack of prior notice. They immediately took to social media to vent their frustrations. Many blamed SM Entertainment which has a history of delaying prior releases due to technical reasons.
This is the latest drama to hit the release of Fact Check. Earlier this week, SM Entertainment released teaser images for the album. One teaser image, featuring Taeil, appeared to include his recent leg injury. The injury, a result of a motorcycle accident Taeil had in August, was later cropped out. This oversight soon became a topic of heated debate among fans. Many expressed concerns about the well-being of the artist, and criticized the company for allegedly making Taeil work while he was still recovering.
Taeil makes an appearance in the music video
Taeil’s appearance in Fact Check was a welcome sight. He appeared to be sitting in a helicopter in the video to perform his singing parts, even though he was absent from the group dance sequences. Notably, he was mostly shown from the waist up.
Fan reactions to Fact Check music video
Fans have reacted warmly to Fact Check‘s release, praising the song and Taeil’s appearance in the music video. While most of the video featured the eight remaining members, Taeil appeared to perform his parts of the song.
Among the reactions seen online:
- “Love the music video! I’m glad Taeil was included. All the locations and outfits look so good. I’m obsessed with Taeyong’s emo look. Mark with the goat and Johnny jumping from the helicopter was great and the 127 bat signal!”
- “It was really nice to see Taeil – I hope he is feeling better!”
- “I know it was done under shit circumstances but I am nonetheless glad that Taeil was able to show up for the music video despite knowing full well that he was still injured during the shoot.”
- “The song didn’t disappoint. For a while I was afraid we won’t get the signature Taeil high note but my worries were unfounded. Now on to listen to the whole album!”
NCT127 hold showcase for Fact Check
NCT 127 also performed the songs from the album at their comeback showcase A Night of Festival. The event was broadcast live at 8PM KST on YouTube and TikTok, allowing fans worldwide to join in the celebration.
During the performance, Taeyong, Johnny, Doyoung, Mark, Jaehyun, Haechan, Yuta, and Jungwoo did their best, despite Taeil’s absence. Other members took over singing his parts, and managed to do justice to his unique singing style. While full of praise for their performance, fans could not help but look forward to the day when Taeil would recover enough to perform onstage again.
As the K-pop world buzzes with discussions about NCT 127’s latest release and the surrounding controversies, one thing is certain: NCT 127 continues to push boundaries and set new standards in the industry.
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