Eagle-eyed BTS fans, also known as ARMYs, have been busy deciphering hidden clues in the recently released short film for V‘s upcoming digital single, “FRI(END)S.” The short film, released by BIGHIT MUSIC, has sparked theories and speculation about the nature of the single and the possibility of more music to come.

A Single with a Twist?

While BIGHIT MUSIC officially announced “FRI(END)S” as a digital single, the short film has left fans questioning whether it might be part of something bigger. The short film features various artistic interpretations of the word “friends,” ultimately leaving viewers with just the word “end.” This has led some fans to believe that the single’s title might hold a deeper meaning, hinting at the end of a chapter or a farewell.

V ‘FRI(END)S’ Promotion Schedule#V #뷔 #V_FRIENDS #FRI_END_S pic.twitter.com/JrjnMSbO0J

— BIGHIT MUSIC (@BIGHIT_MUSIC) March 4, 2024

The Newspaper Clue

Adding fuel to the fire, a blink-and-you-miss-it shot in the short film has sent ARMYs into overdrive. The shot appears to show a newspaper clipping with a press release describing a new album. The press release details five songs and a bonus track, mirroring the layout of BIGHIT MUSIC’s announcement for V’s solo EP, “Layover.“

it's the same text of when they announced layover pic.twitter.com/SFe51AqwIT

— (ꪜ)H✦PE (@vhopebot) March 6, 2024

“in total 5 tracks and a bonus… the albums flow, we recommend… from start to finish”

ik that sounded familiar. the newspaper has the description of Layover !! is there a connection ???#FRI_END_S pic.twitter.com/k3MWWXUwAS

— pia⁷⁼¹ 🦕 ⓥ𝘏𝘖𝘛𝘚 (@mapofjnggk) March 6, 2024

?!?!?!?!?!?!?!

Screenshot from the FRI(END)S short film! Am I clowning and this is about Layover or can we expect another five song EP & a bonus track from Taehyung???!!!! AAAAHHH????#FRI_END_S pic.twitter.com/nH27WarXvw

— Meike⁷ | borahae arts (@BorahaeArts) March 6, 2024

ARMYs Connect the Dots

Fans believe this inclusion in the short film is a deliberate clue, suggesting that “FRI(END)S” might be connected to “Layover” in some way. Some speculate that the single could be a bonus track or an extension of the EP, while others are even entertaining the possibility of a second album.

Five tracks and a bonus albums flow recommend start to finish?

Is it bonus track of Layover?🤔 pic.twitter.com/OtL1kIEDZk

— (ꪜ) (@thvwaist) March 6, 2024

so, this song will most likely be a continuation of Layover (would we finally have a good ending? lol), to promote the song I suggest to make edits about HYYH on tiktok with this song and HOTS main poster will be released soon???

OHH WE’RE SO BACK pic.twitter.com/X5E7tFKRDU

— bocia⁷🕷️ (@kooksadmirer) March 6, 2024

listen… fri(end)s is a continuation of layover and the next kth2 album will be a full album https://t.co/yQfHvFYRkL pic.twitter.com/tHKKzQoPqU

— nochu (ꪜ) (@vantebear_) March 6, 2024

The Layover Connection

Further supporting the theory, fans have pointed out an empty space in the inclusions from the “Layover” album. This has led some to believe that V may have been planning for “FRI(END)S” all along, leaving a spot for it in the album’s packaging.

During his Layover one of the spots was left empty.. is that for FRI(END)S? pic.twitter.com/Rij4FhnWLs

— TAE GUIDE (@taeguide) March 6, 2024

V’s Hidden Plans?

With these clues emerging, fans are commending V for his meticulous planning and attention to detail. They believe that he has cleverly woven hints throughout the short film, leaving fans to piece together the bigger picture.

Taehyung really wants his fans to use their brains to decipher his clues.

I love his sexy brain.

Anyway Friends is the Sequel of LayOver. So we are definitely getting Sequel for Friends means we are getting kth2 soon. 🤡

— FRI(END)Sⓥ🍆 (@Vholic_) March 6, 2024

Theories and Excitement Await

While the true meaning behind the clues remains unconfirmed, one thing is certain: BTS fans are buzzing with excitement and anticipation. They eagerly await the release of “FRI(END)S” and continue to decipher the hidden messages, further deepening their connection with the artist and his work.