The Hidden Meaning Behind MOMOLAND's Kpop Hit "Thumbs Up"

MOMOLAND's kpop thumbs up song was released on December 30, 2019, by MLD Entertainment and distributed by Kakao M as part of their second single album bearing the same name. Despite peaking at number 137 on South Korea's Gaon Digital Chart, this catchy track delivers a surprisingly profound message about our relationship with social media.

The thumbs up video, with its vibrant visuals and dynamic choreography, perfectly complements the song's exploration of social media culture. Behind the aesthetic thumbs up imagery and upbeat tempo lies thoughtful commentary with lyrics like "Counting 'like' is meaningless" and "I have too many followers". Furthermore, the track delves into the overwhelming nature of fame, featuring lines such as "I'm searching for the true heart" and "Why do you want me me me?".

The story behind MOMOLAND’s transformation

MOMOLAND underwent a significant evolution as a K-pop group between their breakthrough hit and the release of the kpop thumbs up song. Their journey reflects the volatile nature of the industry and how groups must continuously reinvent themselves.

From 'Bboom Bboom' to 'Thumbs Up'

MOMOLAND catapulted to fame with "Bboom Bboom" in 2018, a viral sensation that garnered over 500 million views on YouTube. This sudden success established them as emerging stars in the competitive K-pop landscape. However, the pressure to follow up with equally successful releases proved challenging. After experimenting with tracks like "BAAM" and "I'm So Hot," the group shifted their musical direction toward the more mature sound evident in their thumbs up song, which showcased a blend of retro and modern pop elements.

Departure of members and group rebranding

Between their rise to fame and the release of "Thumbs Up," MOMOLAND experienced substantial lineup changes. The group, originally formed through a reality show with nine members, saw the departure of Yeonwoo, Taeha, and Daisy by late 2019. This restructuring necessitated a strategic rebranding as they moved forward as a six-member ensemble. Their management company repositioned them with a more sophisticated image that aligned with their evolving musical style.

Why 'Thumbs Up' marked a turning point

The thumbs up video and song represented more than just another comeback—it symbolized MOMOLAND's artistic maturation. The aesthetic thumbs up imagery throughout the video complemented lyrics that reflected on fame and social media's impact, demonstrating the group's willingness to engage with more meaningful themes. This pivot helped distinguish them from other acts riding the wave of catchy, yet sometimes superficial, K-pop trends. Moreover, this release established a foundation for their evolving identity in subsequent years.

Breaking down the lyrics of 'Thumbs Up'

Beneath the catchy beat of the kpop thumbs up song lies a surprisingly thoughtful commentary on our digital lives. The lyrics cleverly dissect modern struggles with social media and self-image.

Social media fatigue and digital overload

The thumbs up song directly addresses the exhaustion many feel from constant online presence. With lines like "I'm sick and tired of checking my feed" and "My phone keeps ringing, won't stop ringing, all day, all night, goes beep, beep, beep, beep", MOMOLAND captures the overwhelming nature of digital notifications. This represents the "overwhelming sense of Instagram and social media fatigue" that many experience, where constant content creation and consumption become draining rather than energizing.

The search for authenticity in a filtered world

Throughout the thumbs up video, there's a clear yearning for genuine connection beyond surface-level interactions. Lyrics stating "Somebody who knows me well" reflect a desire to escape the superficial praise of followers. This mirrors how social media often creates a disconnect where "real world experiences feel less exciting" compared to the filtered perfection online.

Empowerment through self-acceptance

Ultimately, the song evolves into an anthem of self-empowerment. Bold declarations like "But everyday, I feel like a queen" shift the narrative from victimhood to strength. The repeated "Thumbs up" chorus transforms from a symbol of validation-seeking to self-affirmation, aligning with MOMOLAND's streak of "self-love anthems".

Visual storytelling in the 'Thumbs Up' video

The kpop thumbs up video presents a vivid visual narrative through contrasting imagery and symbolic elements that complement the song's themes of digital identity.

Delivery workers and showgirls: dual identities

Released on December 30, 2019, the music video features MOMOLAND portraying two distinct character sets. As yellow-and-red clad "Momo Express" delivery workers (clearly inspired by DHL), they navigate increasingly difficult tasks—climbing countless stairs and even delivering packages to the South Pole. These scenes alternate with sequences where they appear as glamorous showgirls in black sequin dresses.

Aesthetic thumbs up and retro glam

The video's aesthetic combines bright colors, green screen backgrounds, and retro glamour. Fashion choices range from DHL-inspired uniforms to designer pieces, including Jooe's Carmen March Strapless Ribbon Dress and Nayun's Christian Cowan ASOS Puff Sleeve Bow Mini Dress. The quirky inclusion of South Korean animated penguin character Pingu adds whimsical charm.

Symbolism of spotlight and repetition

The choreography sparked divided critical response—Seoul Beats called it "disappointing, simple and repetitive" while The Kraze Magazine praised it as "simple and easy to follow". Nevertheless, the escalating delivery challenges throughout the video symbolize the group overcoming obstacles. The final package launched to the moon via rocket metaphorically represents MOMOLAND reaching new heights despite industry challenges.

How the song was received and what it means now

Critics offered mixed assessments when the kpop thumbs up song debuted in late 2019. Seoul Beats described it as an "obvious shift for the group, away from blatant carnival fun towards a more retro, glam and sophisticated look and feel". Concurrently, The Kraze Magazine praised how the song "showcased" MOMOLAND's identity as "an energetic, hard-working group of women while giving a re-introduction".

Initial critical and fan reactions

The members themselves displayed genuine emotion upon achieving success with the track. JooE revealed, "I cried the most sorrowfully. The time we spent preparing flashed before my eyes". Nancy added, "I didn't know we would get first place. I was excited just at being nominated". Some online reviewers deemed the song "amazing" and "full of energy and vibrancy".

Chart performance and music show wins

Statistically, "Thumbs Up" debuted at number 137 on the Gaon Digital Chart, marking MOMOLAND's fourth song to enter this prestigious ranking. The single album initially charted at number four on the Gaon Album Chart, subsequently selling 5,688 copies by January 2020. Most significantly, they secured their first M Countdown win on January 9, 2020, with a score of 10,554 points.