Lee Yubin, a Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics short track silver medalist and self-proclaimed ARMY of seven years, told us about the BTS songs that filled her with energy during practice—songs which at times set the pace for her, and at other times provided an emotional compass. 

“INTRO: Never Mind” (BTS)

I was in something of a slump during the 2015–16 season and looking for something to listen to before training, when BTS’ album caught my eye and I listened to the whole thing. Right from the first song, “INTRO: Never Mind,” I found a lot of comfort in it and was so blown away that I think it helped me out of my slump. I became a BTS fan after that.

“Paradise” (BTS)

I listen to this song whenever I’m stressed out from the endless competition of athlete life or when I’m in a slump and feel like I’m losing myself. It’s a calm, quiet song, but it’s nevertheless full of powerful emotion and comfort and gave me strength when I felt alone and stuck and unsure which way to go.

“ON” (BTS)

I always listen to this song at events when I’ve got my skates on and I’m waiting to get on the rink in the heat box [where athletes wait for their name to be called before moving onto the ice]. Focusing on the awesome sound and their amazing performance helps me release tension and makes me feel confident.

“Outro: Wings” (BTS)

I listen to this one a lot during events. I feel better about the event and feel less nervous thanks to the exciting intro and encouraging lyrics. The part that really sticks in my head is, “your beginnings might be humble, but your future leap will be prosperous.”