On March 21, 2025, the South Korean media outlet Sports World unveiled a press release featuring BTS member j-hope in a promotional shot for his latest single, “MONA LISA.”While the image appeared conventional at first glance, an intriguing detail quickly captured fans’ attention and ignited rumors about his upcoming music.
During the press event, j-hope was spotted wearing a belt with the word “Surf”emblazoned on its buckle. Fans promptly noticed this and speculated that it could hint at “Surf” being his next track, as the same belt was prominently featured in the MONA LISA music video, displaying the song’s title as well.
“Is it the next song??,” an X user commented.
This revelation sent waves of excitement through the fanbase. Numerous supporters shared their thoughts:
“I genuinely believe that SURF could be the next big fish in the pond,” a fan shared.
“Most probably. Our man has been hinting in every MV,” one fan remarked.
Fans recalled that previous hits like MONA LISA and “Sweet Dreams”contained subtle hints prior to their release, which had gone unnoticed until afterward. They suspect a similar strategy may be at play with “Surf.”
“I think so. Sweet Dreams and MONA LISA were always in front of our faces, and we didn’t realize,” a user mentioned.
“He did this with MONA LISA too,” another said.
“Wait a min, his belt has ‘Surf’ and not MONA LISA on it 🤔 Does that mean the next track is called ‘Surf’?” a viewer noted.
Release of j-hope’s Single MONA LISA
Today marks the official launch of BTS’ j-hope’s eagerly awaited single, MONA LISA, accompanied by a vibrant music video. BIGHIT MUSIC had previously confirmed the track’s hip-hop and R&B influences through a 9-second teaser released on March 15, 2025.
“This song features clever lyrics, making it both enjoyable and fun. There are playful elements incorporated, including various sound effects throughout the track. Listening closely will enhance the experience,” j-hope explained in the Sports World press release.
He also took a moment to express his gratitude towards his dedicated ARMY:
“I worked on it with joy, imagining the day I would share this song with ARMY. Now that the moment has arrived, I’m thrilled. My sincere thanks and love go out to ARMY for their unwavering support and patience.”
Prior to its release, fans were given a sneak peek of MONA LISA. On March 13, 2025, j-hope performed the song live for the first time during a stop on his Brooklyn HOPE ON THE STREET tour. Additional promotional materials, including concept photos on March 16, and a teaser for the music video on March 19, followed shortly after.
Mark your calendars as j-hope will perform MONA LISA on STUDIO CHOOM (Mnet Digital Studio M2) on March 22, 2025, at 6 PM. His solo world tour, “HOPE ON THE STAGE,”continues with shows at the PALACIO DE LOS DEPORTES in Mexico City on March 23 and 24.