Kuwentong Bangtan: Just One Day: A Song of Light, Longing, and Connection

In the quiet mornings before the school day began, my daughter and I would often find ourselves in the nearly empty cafeteria, basking in the soft glow of the sunrise. Our favorite time of the day. Our preferred place to be still before the rush. In the early morning, and on good weather, the sun’s rays fall on glass windows that framed the golden light, casting long shadows on the walls and floors—a sight that, unknown to me at the time, reminded her of BTS’ Just One Day music video. It wasn’t until years later, when she returned to visit the school as an alumnus, that she shared this nostalgia with me. Back in high school, she was already deeply immersed in BTS—their music, their lore, their history—while I had no idea nor inkling I would join the fandom. Yet, even then, BTS was subtly weaving itself into our shared spaces, waiting for the right moment to connect us in a new way.

For me, Just One Day took on a different but equally profound meaning. In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, BTS performed the song in Bang Bang Con Live, and its lyrics resonated deeply. The longing for connection, the quiet hope in its melody—it felt like an embrace in a time of isolation. Watching them perform, I felt both the ache of missing companionship and the reassurance that music could transcend physical distance. The choreography, smooth and intricate, made it feel as if BTS understood the yearning we all carried during those uncertain times.

Despite our different experiences with Just One Day, the song became a bridge between us—between past and present, solitude and togetherness. This is the power of BTS: their music holds space for personal stories while uniting listeners in a shared emotional landscape. As Skool Luv Affair celebrates its 11th anniversary, it’s a reminder of how music can root itself in our everyday lives, shaping our memories and deepening our connections. Through one song, we found light, comfort, and each other.

Borahae Zoe Therese

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