= (Equal Sign)

j-hope's song '=' (Equal Sign) is a call for equality and unity among people, transcending social and cultural barriers. The lyrics emphasize that no person is above or below another, advocating for a world where everyone is treated with love, trust, and respect. The song begins with a powerful statement that there is no hierarchy among humans, setting the tone for a message of equality.

The South Korean artist, j-hope, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, is known for his socially conscious lyrics and positive messages. In '=', he addresses the indifference of society towards the need for change and the importance of recognizing that change begins with individual responsibility. He highlights the silent struggles people face, the narrow-mindedness of society, and the unnecessary guilt associated with being different. j-hope urges listeners to awaken to the fact that differences among people are not a matter of discrimination but diversity. He calls for an end to hate, which only serves to paralyze the mind, and encourages looking for love in a new light until we find the 'equal sign'—a symbol of balance and fairness.

The chorus of the song reinforces the idea that despite our differences, we share the same breaths, dreams, laughter, and tears. j-hope uses the metaphor of a puzzle to suggest that each individual is a piece that contributes to the strength and completeness of humanity's heart. The song is an anthem for love and equality, urging us to come together and recognize that equality is about seeing each other as equals, regardless of our backgrounds.