LEARN LYRICS

뿌리를 내리다 (the dictionary form) literally translates to "to put down roots," like a tree anchoring itself into the earth. It's a beautiful metaphor for finding stability and establishing oneself.

In the song, Seungmin uses this phrase to express the idea of enduring through hardships, singing about it right after the line 눈이 내리고, 바람이 세서 (when the snow falls and the wind is strong). It’s a powerful and poetic image of resilience, symbolizing the strength to grow and persevere no matter the storm.

Have you ever sprinted so hard toward a goal that you tripped and fell flat on your face? That is the exact spot Seungmin starts from in "As We Are." He admits right away: 잘해보려고 앞만 보고 달리다가 넘어져 버렸고 결국엔 뒤처지고 말았지 ("Trying to do well, I only ran forward, fell down, and ended up falling behind"). Just as he is about to ask the universe why bad luck only picks on him, he glances over and sees someone else crying right beside him. That small moment flips the entire tone. Instead of a lonely breakdown, the song turns into a pact between two people who feel equally clumsy and slow.

Seungmin swaps the panic of a race for the quiet patience of a tree in winter. Even when freezing winds shake his whole body, he urges: 뿌릴 내리고, 가지를 뻗고 하루 더, 하루 더 기다리자 ("Let's put down roots, stretch out branches, and wait one more day, just one more day"). Notice how he uses the phrase 못나 보여도 ("even if I look pathetic / unattractive")—it is refreshingly blunt. He is not pretending everything looks cool or impressive. Instead, he promises to run against time together (시간을 같이 달리자) at their own pace, holding out for the day they can look back with 세상 가장 푸르른 미소 ("the greenest smile in the world"). In Korean, 푸르다 (to be blue or green) carries a vivid sense of fresh, thriving youth, making that final smile feel completely earned.

Stray Kids (SKZ) is a dynamic K-Pop group formed by JYP Entertainment through a 2017 reality show. Comprising members Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N, they officially debuted in March 2018.

Known for their self-producing prowess, the group's sub-unit 3RACHA (Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han) is heavily involved in writing and composing much of their music. Stray Kids has captivated a global audience with their powerful performances, unique 'noise music' sound, and relatable lyrics exploring themes of youth and self-discovery. They've earned numerous awards and topped charts worldwide, solidifying their place as a leading force in K-Pop.