South Korean/Australian artist Munan returns with ‘23’, his final single of the year, accompanied by a Snow Jung-directed short film titled Like Mother, Like Son: Prelude. Bringing together the music videos for previous singles ‘Not A Loser’ and ‘Disco In My Room’ with a brand-new video for ‘23’, the three-part visual follows a connected narrative across the releases.
Blending alternative-pop, indie-rock and psych-pop, ‘23’ finds Munan exploring a more introspective side of his sound, pairing hazy textures and laid-back grooves with the warmth and character of artists like Tame Impala, Toro y Moi and Mac DeMarco.
Written when Munan turned 33, ‘23’ takes its title from a reflection on where he was, where he is now, and the uncertainty of what comes next. After a decade spent pursuing music, the track captures a very human point of transition, as family begins to worry, friends grow older and move forward, and the path ahead becomes increasingly unclear.
“I could say this song started this whole journey. I wrote this when I turned 33 last year. The lyrics is reflecting my own life as a musician of 10 years. I’ve come to that stage in life where family starts to worry and friends all grown up, matured and moved on.”
Rather than offering easy answers, ‘23’ sits comfortably in that space between nostalgia and possibility. It looks back at the past while questioning what the future might hold, with Munan hoping the song (and the album that follows) can mark the beginning of a new chapter.
“‘23’ was written as a reflection to the past, the current, and the unknown future that holds for me. And I hope this song and my album gives me a sign for a new chapter in my life.”
At its heart, ‘23’ is also a thank-you to the people who have remained in Munan’s corner throughout the journey, with the artist dedicating the song to his mum and the friends who continue to support his music.
“This song is dedicated to my mum, who was always there for me, and my friends who still cheer me on.”
Stream/Watch:
https://bfan.link/twentythree
Socials:
https://linktr.ee/munanisaverage
Credits:
Written, Produced & Mixed by Mun Hwan Lee (aka Munan)
Guitar by Jae Young Lee
Mastered by Ohad Nissim
Artwork by Mun Hwan Lee
Photography by Hyun Park Visuals by RAW FIGURES & Snow Jung