In the K-pop world, ROSÉ and Bruno Mars’ collaboration on APT. took fans by storm, blending global music and Korean culture in a unique way. But beyond the catchy tune, many are curious about the cultural reference behind "APT." As explained in our previous article, the title of the song isn’t just about "apartments" – it’s a nod to the Korean drinking game, Apartment (아파트), which plays a key role in the chorus and music video.
ROSÉ herself has demonstrated how to play this fun and simple game, and here's a detailed breakdown:
What is the 'Apartment' Game?
The Apartment (아파트) game is a popular Korean drinking game, perfect for breaking the ice at parties. It’s simple, fast-paced, and loads of fun. In the game, participants form a circle and stack their hands, one on top of the other, like the floors of an apartment building. Here’s how it works:
Chant "아파트, 아파트": Players chant “아파트, 아파트” (pronounced ah-pa-teu, ah-pa-teu), imitating the sound of building floors.
Calling out a Floor: After the chant, the game leader calls out a random floor number, such as “7층!” (7th floor).
Pulling Hands: Players, starting from the bottom of the stack, must pull their hands out one by one, placing them back on top. The player whose hand is at the bottom when the called floor number is reached has to take a drink.
This simple yet engaging game requires quick reflexes, and the stakes get higher as the chant continues. The combination of rhythm, excitement, and a potential drinking penalty makes it a favorite in social gatherings.
ROSÉ’s Demonstration in the APT. MV
In the APT. music video, ROSÉ gives us a fun glimpse into this popular Korean drinking game. She explains how the game works, and the repetitive “아파트, 아파트” chant we hear in the song mirrors the actual gameplay. The song blends this playful aspect of Korean culture with the flirty, energetic vibe that ROSÉ and Bruno Mars bring to the track.
The chant not only becomes a hook in the song but also carries a deeper cultural meaning, showing ROSÉ’s love for her roots. It’s an excellent example of how K-pop artists can integrate Korean traditions into their global hits.
For a deeper dive into how APT. brings this fun drinking game to life, check out the original breakdown of the lyrics and cultural reference in our previous article, What is the Meaning of APT in ROSÉ and Bruno Mars’ New Song.
Why Fans Love It The Apartment game brings a fresh and exciting element to the song, making it more than just a catchy tune. It's a fusion of music, culture, and fun that resonates with listeners worldwide. Fans are loving the blend of a traditional Korean game with the playful dynamics between ROSÉ and Bruno Mars. Whether you're new to Korean culture or a longtime fan, learning to play Apartment is just as fun as listening to APT.
Want to give the game a try at your next gathering? ROSÉ has shown the way—now it’s your turn to get in on the fun!