ITZY 'TUNNEL VISION' M/V: Behind The Visual Magic

ITZY's "TUNNEL VISION" M/V captivates viewers with its bold visual storytelling and powerful performance elements. Released on November 10, 2025, this title track from their 11th mini album quickly gained international recognition, reaching #1 on iTunes Top Albums charts in nine regions.

Behind the striking visuals lies a deeper meaning centered around determination and self-confidence. The music video visually interprets powerful lyrics like "I know what the hell I want" and "Don't need permission", reflecting the group's unwavering focus. Additionally, the visual components of the M/V enhance the meaning of "tunnel vision" – symbolizing their single-minded dedication to success with lines such as "Never lose my sight, betting it all". The production showcases the creative collaboration between lyricist NODAY and composer Dwayne "Dem Jointz" Abernathy Jr., resulting in a comprehensive visual experience that complements the song's message.

The concept behind 'Tunnel Vision'

Beyond captivating visuals, "TUNNEL VISION" embodies ITZY's artistic growth through a conceptual framework centered on unwavering focus and determination.

What the title track represents

"TUNNEL VISION" marks ITZY's first venture into Afrobeat-based hip-hop, showcasing their musical evolution. Ryujin describes it as having "very deep vibes" with elements of Afrobeats, promising fans "a new side" of the group. The track combines a hip-hop beat with brass sounds to create a weighty, immersive experience. Furthermore, Chaeryeong explains that the song explores various genres while maintaining the group's signature empowering message.

How the lyrics reflect ITZY's mindset

The lyrics directly mirror ITZY's personal philosophy of determination. "This album is about our passion," states Ryujin, explaining they wanted "to express the [idea of] focusing on something and shutting down every other thing". Indeed, lines like "I know what the hell I want / Don't need permission" and "Never backing down" encapsulate their independent spirit. Specifically, Lia mentions hoping listeners experience "vicarious satisfaction and catharsis" through their music.

The meaning of 'tunnel vision' in the M/V context

In the music video context, "tunnel vision" represents single-minded dedication. Chaeryeong eloquently defines it: "Like the meaning of the word 'tunnel vision', you follow that single ray of light you see in the distance. That light could be your goal, or a dream". The concept visually manifests through scenes showing the members pursuing light amid darkness, symbolizing overcoming obstacles through focused motivation.

Visual storytelling in the music video

The cinematic approach in ITZY's "TUNNEL VISION" m/v transforms abstract concepts into powerful visual metaphors. Each frame serves as a potential movie poster, creating an immersive visual journey.

Use of lighting and color to show transformation

The m/v employs bold colors and striking contrasts within futuristic, tunnel-like environments. Gone are the typical glittery pop aesthetics—replaced by sophisticated metallics, shadows, and high fashion that create visual depth. This three-dimensional spatial sense is maximized through wide-angle compositions that enhance viewer immersion.

Symbolic elements in key scenes

Notable symbolic motifs thread throughout the m/v, particularly the recurring ant imagery. These ants represent collective commitment toward a single direction, with members holding each other's hands—girls who will be girls. Moreover, brief hypnotic frames show Yeji continuing to strut despite a heel injury and Chaeryeong falling but "serving face" afterward—visual reinforcements of perseverance. The car crash scene similarly emphasizes their determination to overcome obstacles.

How the visuals match the song's message

The visual storytelling perfectly complements the tunnel vision concept. As Yuna mentioned, "The video has a lot of layers and new angles you notice the more you watch it". Consequently, these visuals remind viewers that tunnel vision isn't solely about chasing ambitions but also about maintaining self-focus amid "roars of cheers" and "endless flashes" of stardom.

Performance and choreography breakdown

Choreography stands as the cornerstone of ITZY's "TUNNEL VISION" m/v, with intricate movements designed by renowned dance teams including Lachica and legendary choreographer Kirsten Dodgen.

Signature moves and their meaning

The choreography features distinctive face-framing movements that directly reference the song's tunnel vision concept. The "blinding kick" emerges as the most notable move, symbolizing the members' focused determination. Popping sequences throughout the routine create visual impact that appears larger than the actual energy expended. First, hand movements precisely frame the face, then transition into sharp, aggressive formations representing unwavering focus.

How choreography supports the theme

Every movement reinforces the song's message of concentration and determination. Remarkably, the synchronized unison singing during key choreography moments emphasizes their collective strength as a group. The dance routine incorporates simpler elements than previous ITZY performances, making it more accessible while maintaining their signature precision. Yeji, Ryujin, Lia, Chaeryeong, and Yuna execute formations that showcase their commitment to a single direction, much like the ant motif in the m/v.

Studio Choom performance highlights

ITZY's Studio Choom original performance, filmed in pristine 4K, showcases the group's exceptional synchronicity. The performance highlights each member's strengths—particularly Ryujin's precise sense of speed and dynamics. In addition, dramatic lighting enhances their facial expressions during close-up shots, further emphasizing the tunnel vision concept. This performance solidifies their reputation as "K-pop's representative performance queens".

Creative team and production magic

Behind ITZY's cinematic m/v stands a massive collaborative effort spearheaded by production company RIGEND. The elaborate production involved teams across multiple countries, resulting in a visually stunning final product.

Director and production crew

The creative vision for "TUNNEL VISION" came from director MINHA HWANG, working alongside creative director RIMA YOON. This powerhouse team was supported by executive producer DADA DAYOUNG KIM and a host of producers including SARA ZHAO, CHAERIN HONG, and GANGMIN KIM. Notably, the Czech filming required extensive local production support from CRAFT LAB MEDIA, with ELIZABETH QUIRÓS serving as producer. The m/v's unique visual language emerged from cinematographer SHIN JAM's expert camera work, coupled with KIMON's movement direction.

Set design and visual effects

Filmed primarily in the Czech Republic under clear skies, the production utilized natural environments transformed through post-production magic. First, the raw footage captured wide-angle compositions that maximized three-dimensional spatial sense. Subsequently, an extensive post-production team including 3D artists YOOSISIPI, EUGENIU MUSTANU, and JAEJOON BAE created the m/v's distinctive visual effects. The team employed sophisticated AI techniques from MINHA HWANG and JEONGHOON YEOM to enhance the otherworldly atmosphere.

Styling, makeup, and wardrobe choices

Rather than continuing their previous styling direction, ITZY showcased a refined aesthetic featuring denim with unbalanced designs. Makeup artist YURALEE created distinctive looks for each member, essentially establishing a bold visual identity. Hair stylists MIMMIIKIM and HIII_HAEUN crafted complementary hairstyles that enhanced the overall styling concept. Fans praised this comeback's styling as "INSANE" with "ZERO bad looks," especially highlighting Ryujin's outfits.