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"Thunderous"
Japanese version regular cover
Single by Stray Kids
from the album Noeasy
Language
  • Korean
  • Japanese
ReleasedAugust 23, 2021 (2021-08-23)
StudioJYPE (Seoul)
Genre
Length3:03
LabelJYP
Composers
  • Bang Chan
  • Changbin
  • Han
  • HotSauce
Lyricists
  • Bang Chan
  • Changbin
  • Han
Stray Kids singles chronology
"Mixtape: Oh"
(2021) 		"Thunderous"
(2021) 		"Scars"
(2021)
Music video
"Thunderous" on YouTube

"Thunderous" (Korean: 소리꾼; RR: Sori-kkun, lit. "Singer" (of Pansori)) is a song recorded by South Korean boy band Stray Kids. It was released as the second track of their second studio album Noeasy, and serves as its lead single on August 23, 2021, through JYP Entertainment, and distributed by Dreamus. Written by 3Racha, a production team from members of Stray Kids and HotSauce, the song is described as a hip hop, and trap song with the elements of Korean traditional music (gugak), and brass instruments, expresses the firm belief that they will not be discouraged and keep to their principles no matter what anyone says. The Japanese version of "Thunderous", titled "Sorikun" (ソリクン), was released on October 13, 2021, together with "Scars" as a double A-side single, through Epic Records Japan.

Commercially, the song debuted at number 33 on the Gaon Digital Chart, making their highest charting song ever, number 3 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales, number 80 on the Global 200. It was promoted on several South Korean music programs and took six wins from music programs, such as Show Champion, M Countdown, Music Bank, and Inkigayo. The accompanying music video reached 100 million views in 55 days after being uploaded, making it their fifth and fastest to hit 100-million-view music video. The Japanese version peaked at number 2 on the Oricon Singles Chart.

Background and release

[edit]

On July 22, 2021, Stray Kids announced to release the second studio album Noeasy, set to be released on August 23, 2021, with the "Thunderous" trailer.[1][2] The full track listing was released on August 12, and announced "Thunderous" will serve as a title track of the album.[3][4] The music video teasers were released on August 20–21,[5][6] and the performance video teaser with SKZoo costume on the following day.[7] The song was released on the same day with the album and accompanying music video.[8][9][10]

On July 30, 2021, Stray Kids announced to release the second Japanese single on October 13 with five physical editions: three first press limited (A, B, C), regular, and FC.[11][12] On September 10, The Japanese version of "Thunderous", titled "Sorikun" (ソリクン), was announced to release as a double A-side single in Japan together with "Scars".[13] It was pre-released on September 23 to digital music, and streaming platform.[14] The performance music was premiered on September 23.[15]

Composition

[edit]
The Korean title of the lead single "Thunderous", "Sori-kkun" is inspired by a singer position of pansori of the same name.

"Thunderous" was written by the group's production team 3Racha (Bang Chan, Changbin, Han), and JYP in-house production team HotSauce,[4] is a hip hop[10] and trap[10] song that includes various elements of Korean traditional music (gugak), brass instruments, and chuimsae.[3][16][5] The song composed in the key of C♯ major, 172 beats per minute with a running time of 3 minutes and 3 seconds.[17] The Korean title "Sori-kkun" has a dual meaning of jansori-kkun (잔소리꾼) means "nagger", and sori-kkun (소리꾼) means "singer" of pansori. As generation Z, the song expresses the firm belief that they will not be discouraged and keep to their principles no matter what anyone says.[3][16][5] According to the interview, Felix, a member of the group said the concept of "Thunderous" can be described as "black and red", and "dokkaebi". Bang Chan also said, "The message of the song is that Stray Kids, as sorikkun (singer), will face off against the jansorikkun (naggers), and confidently let loose our sound."[18]

Commercial performance

[edit]

"Thunderous" debuted at number 33 on the thirty-fifth week of South Korea's Gaon Digital Chart for the issue date of August 22–28, 2021, make their highest charting song ever,[19] and number 90 on the Billboard K-pop 100.[20] In Japan, the song entered at number 88.[21] In Malaysia, the song peaked at number 14 on Top 20 Most Streamed Songs.[22] In Singapore, the song debuted at number 24 on the RIAS Top Streaming Chart.[23]

In Hungary, the debuted at number 7 on Single Top 40.[24] In the United Kingdom, the song debuted at number 82 on the Singles Sales Chart for the chart issue date of August 27 – September 2, 2021,[25] becoming the group's first-ever song to appear on the charts. In the United States, the song debuted at number 3 on the World Digital Song Sales for the chart issue date of September 4, 2021.[26][27] The song also debuted at 80 on the Billboard Global 200.[28]

The double A-side single with "Scars" debuted at number two on the Oricon Singles Chart, selling 119,963 copies in the first week, surpassing 37,157 copies of "Top" (Japanese version).[29] The single also entered Billboard Japan Top Single Sales at number two, selling 182,405 copies in its first week.[30]

Music video

[edit]

The accompanying music video of "Thunderous" was premiered on August 24, 2021, to YouTube,[31] Naver TV,[32] and V Live.[33] The music video teasers were released on August 20–21,[5][6] Directed by Bang Jae-yeob,[34] and shoot in cinematic scale, the music video mash-up Korean historical and modern styles, like sports cars in front of the palace, Stray Kids wearing modern clothes among the people in hanbok. It included Korean traditional culture like aak, pungmul nori, Bukcheong lion mask, etc.[8][9][10][35]

On August 30, the music video uploaded on YouTube reached 50 million views in 6 days.[36] It surpassed 100 million views on October 18, for 55 days, making it the group's fifth 100-million-view music video, following "God's Menu", "Back Door", "Miroh", and "My Pace", and their fastest music video to hit the milestone, surpassing "God's Menu" with 71 days,[37][38] and 200 million views on May 11, 2022.[39]

Live performances

[edit]

"Thunderous" was performed for the first time at a showcase held on the same day as the release date, as part of Kingdom Week <No+>, a television variety show that benefits the winner of Kingdom: Legendary War.[40] The song was also promoted on several music programs in South Korea[41] for three weeks, August 26 – September 12, including M Countdown,[42][43][44] Music Bank,[45][46][47] Show! Music Core,[48][49][50] Inkigayo,[51][52][53] and Show Champion,[54][55] along with "The View" in the first week of promotion, except Music Bank,[42][48][51][54] and "Secret Secret" at Show! Music Core on September 4.[49]

"Thunderous" was also performed at several awards ceremonies, including 2021 The Fact Music Awards on October 2;[56] the 2021 Asia Artist Awards on December 2;[57] the 2021 Mnet Asian Music Awards, arranged in the "hero" version as part of medley, titled Stray Kids World Domination;[58] 36th Golden Disc Awards with new arrangement on January 8, 2022.[59] At the year-end annual music shows, "Thunderous" was performed at the 2021 KBS Song Festival on December 17, which shot at Namhansanseong, Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province with the theme With K-Culture, collaborated K-pop and K-cultural asset;[60] 2021 SBS Gayo Daejeon on December 25, which arranged in Christmas version, and additionally using canes, group dance, and parodying Squid Game's ttakji, and dalgona game;[61][62] and 2021 MBC Gayo Daejejeon on December 31, adding ringing New Year's bell performance before New Year ceremony.[63]

As an ambassador for the Korea Pavilion of Expo 2020, held at Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Stray Kids performed "Thunderous", as part of the opening show of the Korea Pavilion's Korea National Day with the Little Angels, and K-Tigers on January 17, 2022.[64] The group also performed "Thunderous", alongside "Miroh", "God's Menu", and "Back Door" at the Korea National Day K-Pop Concert on the same day, joining Forestella, (G)I-dle, Golden Child, Sunmi, and Psy.[65]

Stray Kids gave the debut performance of the Japanese version of "Thunderous" at CDTV Live! Live! on October 4,[66] and, later, also performed on 35th anniversary special episode of Music Station on October 15,[67] as well as Buzz Rhythm 02 on October 31.[68] The Japanese version entered Billboard Japan Hot 100 at number 66.[69]

Track listing

[edit]
All editions[a] – CD, digital download, streaming
No.TitleLyricsMusicArrangementLength
1."Scars"
  • Armadillo
  • Bang Chan
  • Changbin
  • Han
  • Bang Chan
  • Versachoi
3:20
2."Thunderous" (ソリクン; Japanese version)
  • Bang Chan
  • Changbin
  • Han
  • KM-Markit
  • Bang Chan
  • Changbin
  • Han
  • HotSauce
  • HotSauce
  • Bang Chan
3:05
3."Call"
  • Han
  • KM-Markit
  • Bang Chan
  • Han
Bang Chan (3Racha)2:47
Total length:9:12
First press limited editions bonus track – CD
No.TitleLyricsMusicArrangementLength
4."My Pace" (Japanese version)
  • Bang Chan
  • Changbin
  • Han
  • Earattack
  • Larmook
  • Earattack
  • Larmook
  • Gongdo
3:11
Total length:12:23
First press limited editions A – Blu-ray
No.TitleLength
1."Jacket Shooting Making Movie" 
First press limited editions B – Blu-ray
No.TitleDirector(s)Length
1."Thunderous" (Japanese version; performance music video)Novvkim3:09
2."Thunderous" (Japanese version; performance music video making movie)  
Notes
  • ^[a] In first press limited edition B, "Thunderous" (Japanese version) is switched to be the first track, and "Scars" to be the second track.
  • ^[b] Signifies an additional lyricist
  • "Call" is stylized in all caps

Credits and personnel

[edit]

Credits adapted from Melon[70] and the Japanese CD single liner notes.[71]

Locations
Personnel
  • Stray Kids – lead vocals
    • Bang Chan (3Racha) – lyrics, composition, arrangement
    • Changbin (3Racha) – lyrics, composition
    • Han (3Racha) – lyrics, composition
    • KM-Markit – lyrics (Japanese version)
  • HotSauce – composition, arrangement, keyboard, drum programming, computer programming, digital editing
  • KayOne Lee – digital editing
  • Lee Sang-yeob – recording
  • Lim Hong-jin – recording (Korean version)
  • Eom Se-hee – recording (Japanese version)
  • Tony Maserati – mixing
  • David K. Younghyun – mix engineering
  • Kwon Nam-woo – mastering

Accolades

[edit]

"Thunderous" received six first place music program awards in South Korea. It received a nomination for Best Dance Performance – Male Group at the 2021 Mnet Asian Music Awards.[72] "Thunderous" was named amongst the best K-pop songs of 2021 by Billboard (9th),[73] Dazed (12th),[74] Young Post (15th)[74] and Tonplein (16th).[75]

Music program awards for "Thunderous"
Program Date Ref.
Show Champion September 1, 2021 [54]
September 8, 2021 [55]
M Countdown September 2, 2021 [43]
September 9, 2021 [44]
Music Bank September 3, 2021 [46]
Inkigayo September 5, 2021 [52]

Charts

[edit]

Certifications and sales

[edit]
Certifications and sales for "Thunderous"
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Japan (RIAJ)[89]
Scars / Thunderous (Japanese ver.) physical 		Platinum 136,944[88]
United States (RIAA)[90] Gold 500,000‡
Streaming
Japan (RIAJ)[91] Gold 50,000,000†

‡ Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.
† Streaming-only figures based on certification alone.

Release history

[edit]
Release dates and formats for "Thunderous"
Region Date Format Version Label Ref.
Various August 23, 2021
Original JYP [92][93]
September 23, 2021 Japanese (pre-release) Epic Japan [14]
October 13, 2021 Japanese [94]
South Korea JYP [95]
Japan CD+Blu-ray First press limited A Epic Japan [96]
First press limited B
CD+SpecialZine First press limited C
CD Regular
FC

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Thunderous

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Thunderous (Korean: 소리꾼; RR: Sorikkun) is a song recorded by the South Korean , serving as the from their second studio album, . Released on August 23, 2021, by , the track fuses hip-hop, EDM, trap, and traditional Korean musical elements such as vocals and instrumentation to create a bold, high-energy sound. The song's lyrics, written by members Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, position as sorikkun (traditional singers or noisemakers) defiantly confronting their critics, referred to as jansorikkun (naggers), with a message of unapologetic confidence and power akin to thunder. The accompanying music video, directed by Korean filmmaker Bang Jaeyeob, premiered on YouTube the same day and depicts the group in a mythical, ancient Korean setting, performing dynamic choreography amid dramatic visuals inspired by traditional storytelling. As of November 2025, the video has amassed over 430 million views, marking it as Stray Kids' second MV to reach this milestone after "God's Menu." Commercially, "Thunderous" debuted at number 3 on the World Digital Song Sales chart, number 80 on the , and number 52 on the Global Excl. U.S. chart. It also peaked at number 33 on South Korea's Gaon Digital Chart, becoming the group's highest-charting single there at the time, and earned six wins on major Korean music programs. In 2024, "Thunderous" received gold certification from the (RIAA) for surpassing 500,000 equivalent units in the United States, making it Stray Kids' fourth such single accolade. The song's innovative blend of modern and traditional sounds has been praised for showcasing ' signature intense and rebellious style, solidifying their position as a leading force in .

Background and development

Conception and inspiration

The conception of "Thunderous" stemmed from ' desire to fuse traditional Korean music with contemporary hip-hop elements, creating a bold sound that the group described as an extension of their "mala-flavored" genre—characterized by spicy, intense rhythms previously explored in tracks like "God's Menu" and "Back Door." This approach aimed to highlight the grandeur of Korean cultural heritage while innovating within , drawing inspiration from historical performers known as sorikkun, who were renowned for their powerful vocal storytelling and emotional delivery. The track's title, "Sorikkun" in Korean, directly references these performers, positioning as modern sorikkun confronting critics—termed "jansorikkun" or naggers—through confident, resonant expression. Bang Chan, as leader and member of the production trio 3RACHA, played a pivotal role in conceptualizing the song during the pre-production phase for their second studio album in early 2021. He led discussions on blending cultural elements like percussion and traditional instruments with intense rap verses, emphasizing the group's intent to showcase vocal power and narrative depth. As Bang Chan explained, the track's message revolves around boldly unleashing their "sound" against detractors, a theme that evolved from their experiences on the survival show Kingdom: Legendary War earlier that year. This creative spark aligned with Stray Kids' broader goal to push K-pop boundaries, incorporating influences from pungmul rhythms and Bongsan mask dance to craft a "thunderous" energy that merges tradition with their signature noisy, high-impact style. Changbin noted that the song sought to demonstrate "how grand our traditional musical sounds can be, as well as the possibilities of combining these sounds with K-pop," reflecting the group's commitment to cultural innovation during Noeasy's development.

Recording and production

The recording sessions for "Thunderous" took place at JYP Entertainment's studios in in the lead-up to the song's release on August 23, 2021, with primary production handled by ' in-house team 3RACHA, consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han. The process emphasized integrating samples of traditional Korean percussion from , including instruments like the kkwaenggwari and janggu, alongside electronic beats, heavy bass lines, and modern trap-EDM elements to create a fusion sound. Production techniques included layered vocal arrangements to evoke the dramatic, storytelling essence of in the chorus—drawing briefly from the song's inspirational roots in this traditional Korean vocal art form—while incorporating dynamic shifts from subtle builds to explosive drops for heightened impact. Key challenges arose in balancing cultural authenticity with commercial appeal, as 3RACHA navigated concerns over whether the blend of gugak elements with contemporary might feel "too futuristic" or inaccessible to global audiences, leading to trial-and-error experimentation and multiple revisions to refine the fusion. Despite these hurdles, the team found the process comfortable, leveraging their experience in hip-hop and EDM to ensure the track's bold sound aligned with ' noisy, innovative identity.

Release and promotion strategy

"Thunderous" was released on August 23, 2021, serving as the lead single from Stray Kids' second studio album, Noeasy, distributed by JYP Entertainment. The pre-release campaign began in early August 2021, with JYP unveiling the album's tracklist on August 11, highlighting "Thunderous" (styled as "소리꾼") as the title track. Mid-August saw the rollout of concept photos, including individual member teasers across multiple versions and group images, building anticipation through visual storytelling that previewed the song's dynamic energy. JYP's marketing strategy centered on leveraging social media platforms like , , and , alongside official channels, to engage a global audience. Promotions emphasized the track's fusion of traditional Korean musical elements with modern hip-hop and EDM, positioning "Thunderous" as a powerful declaration of resilience that aligned with 's overarching theme of overcoming challenges without shortcuts. This approach targeted international fans by showcasing cultural depth while maintaining ' signature bold, self-produced style, fostering widespread pre-release buzz.

Music and lyrics

Genre and composition

"Thunderous" is classified as a hip-hop track incorporating elements of trap and EDM, distinguished by its fusion with traditional Korean influences. The song features trap beats layered with orchestral swells and rapid-fire rap verses, creating a dynamic contrast between modern production and folk-inspired vocals that evoke the dramatic storytelling of , a traditional Korean narrative singing style. This blending is evident in the use of traditional percussion samples from , alongside contemporary rap delivery, as described by group member Changbin, who noted the intent to highlight "how grand our traditional musical sounds can be" when combined with . The song follows a verse-pre-chorus-chorus-post-chorus structure, repeated across two verses before transitioning into a bridge and final chorus, with a total duration of 3:03. It opens with an intro featuring traditional chanting reminiscent of , setting a theatrical tone that builds into the main sections. Composed in the key of at a of 172 BPM—though perceived with a feel due to its rhythmic emphasis—the track maintains a high-energy pace throughout. Instrumentation plays a crucial role in achieving the song's "thunderous" intensity, combining thunderous synths and clattering percussion with thunderous drums and layered vocal harmonies in the choruses. These elements, including traditional Korean flutes and effects like car horns, create a textured that prioritizes rhythmic drive over melodic hooks, with chants reinforcing the group's assertive delivery. In comparison to prior Stray Kids tracks like "God's Menu," which shares a similar hybrid hip-hop/EDM foundation with trap influences, "Thunderous" stands out through its incorporation of Korean folk elements, such as pansori-style vocals and samul nori percussion, adding cultural depth and uniqueness to the group's aggressive sound.

Lyrics and themes

The lyrics of "Thunderous" were written by 3RACHA, the production trio consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han from , emphasizing the group's self-produced ethos. The song incorporates Korean terminology such as "sorikkun" (소리꾼), referring to a traditional performer known for powerful vocal projections, to symbolize the members' assertive presence in the music industry. This linguistic choice underscores a narrative of dominance and unapologetic noise-making, positioning as modern-day "sorikkun" confronting detractors or "jansorikkun" (naggers). At its core, the lyrics explore themes of breaking silence and unleashing inner strength, portraying the group's sound as an unstoppable force amid criticism. Bang Chan explained that the message revolves around confidently releasing their "thunderous" voice against naysayers, transforming perceived noise into a of . Metaphors of thunder, storms, and hurricanes recur to represent the group's explosive impact, as in lines depicting a "fierce hurricane" flipping umbrellas and signaling the "last day" for faultfinders, evoking a sense of inevitable reckoning and resilience. These elements challenge industry critics by reframing their bold style as a legendary, thunder-like roar that demands attention and defies suppression. The lyrical structure features aggressive rap verses primarily delivered by Changbin and Han, building intensity through rapid-fire declarations of independence and defiance, such as Changbin's opening: "So they call me 'the one shouting,' oh / It's Changbin, I choose my own path / With a tough attitude / Like a locomotive going recklessly down the track." In contrast, the melodic chorus and pre-chorus, led by the vocal line including Seungmin and I.N, emphasize unity and endurance, with collective chants like "Thunderous / Thunderous" reinforcing group solidarity. Key lines in the post-chorus, such as "Rumble, snap, crack, thunder / Riding on the clouds, tada," capture the song's climactic release of power, translating to an assertion of unstoppable momentum: "We make thunderous sounds, can't stop us now." This interplay of rap aggression and harmonious refrains mirrors the themes of individual boldness converging into collective strength.

Cultural elements

"Thunderous" prominently integrates elements of , a traditional Korean musical storytelling form recognized by as an of Humanity since 2003. The song employs techniques through dramatic vocal improvisations and a delivery style, particularly in the opening rap sequences that mimic the expressive, elongated singing and rhythmic speech patterns characteristic of performers. This fusion blends the ancient art's storytelling essence with contemporary hip-hop and trap beats, creating a modern homage to Korea's . Promotional materials for "Thunderous" further emphasize Korean heritage through hanbok-inspired costumes, where group members don modernized versions of the traditional attire featuring vibrant reds and structured silhouettes reminiscent of historical Korean performers. These outfits appear in the music video and live stages, set against backdrops like villages, evoking the era of legendary artists known as sorikkun—narrative singers referenced briefly in the song's lyrics. Stray Kids expressed their intent to globalize Korean culture through K-pop in post-release interviews, with member Changbin stating, "We wanted to express how grand our traditional musical sounds can be, as well as the possibilities of combining these sounds with K-pop." Felix added that they incorporated "Korean sounds, performances and colour" to highlight this heritage on a worldwide stage. This approach aligns with broader efforts to promote cultural exchange, as evidenced by the group's selection to perform "Thunderous" at the 2025 launch of South Korea's Presidential Commission for Exchange. Korean media received this cultural fusion positively, commending the authenticity of the pansori integration and avoidance of superficial appropriation, with outlets praising the track's respectful elevation of traditional elements within a global K-pop framework.

Visual and promotional media

Music video

The music video for "Thunderous," directed by Bang Jaeyeob, premiered on August 23, 2021, through JYP Entertainment's official YouTube channel. It runs for 3:55 and showcases Stray Kids in a visually striking narrative that fuses live-action performance footage with animated sequences inspired by traditional South Korean culture. The aesthetics emphasize a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere, featuring barren, desert-like landscapes that evoke isolation and power, interspersed with dynamic CGI storm effects to mirror the song's thunderous energy. Key scenes highlight the group executing synchronized, high-energy against backdrops of raging tempests and swirling clouds, symbolizing defiance and unbridled expression. Symbolic motifs draw from ancient Korean artistry, including stylized techniques that blend historical elements like flowing robes and mythical figures with modern , representing the release of inner voices against societal constraints. The narrative underscores themes of , with the members portrayed as bold performers breaking through visual barriers to assert their presence. The video quickly gained traction, amassing 10 million views within 21 hours of release and continuing to perform strongly in subsequent years. It reached 100 million views on October 18, 2021, 200 million on May 11, 2022, 300 million on May 24, 2023, and surpassed 400 million views on February 7, 2025, establishing it as ' second most-viewed after "God's Menu."

and staging

The choreography for "Thunderous" was developed by the South Korean dance crew Men of the Future, who incorporated powerful group formations and sharp isolations to highlight the track's intense hip-hop and trap rhythms. These elements create a sense of synchronized power among the eight members, with movements that build tension through precise, explosive transitions. Drawing from Korean traditional influences, the routine includes pansori-inspired gestures, such as dramatic arm sweeps evoking the rhythmic storytelling of performers and folklore, where performers mimic banging drums to amplify the song's thunderous theme. In music show performances, staging enhances the choreography's impact through thematic visuals on LED screens depicting thunder and storm effects, syncing with the beat drops and group formations to immerse audiences in the song's elemental motif. Costumes blend modern streetwear—such as oversized jackets and cargo pants—with subtle cultural accents like embroidered patterns inspired by traditional Korean textiles, allowing fluid movement while nodding to the track's heritage roots. These setups maintain tight synchronization across the eight members, emphasizing unity in high-energy routines. Adaptations for award shows and concerts extend the core with amplified breaks and interactive elements, particularly during the chorus where members encourage fan sing-alongs and wave formations to foster audience engagement. For instance, at the 2021 , the performance featured an epic intro leading into expanded isolations and group dynamics tailored for larger stages. The scenes from the music video, with their sharp isolations, are faithfully replicated in live settings to preserve the routine's intensity.

Other promotional content

To build anticipation for the release of "Thunderous" as the title track of Stray Kids' album NOEASY, JYP Entertainment shared a series of pre-release image teasers on August 16, 2021, featuring the eight members in dramatic, storm-themed poses that evoked the song's powerful imagery. These were followed by music video teasers, including Teaser #1 on August 19 and Teaser #2 on August 20, which previewed snippets of the track's intense beats and visual aesthetics, drawing millions of views shortly after upload on the official JYP YouTube channel. Complementing these, a dance practice video was released on September 1, 2021, showcasing the group's synchronized choreography in a studio setting, which highlighted the song's rhythmic complexity and garnered praise for its high-energy execution. Behind-the-scenes footage provided fans with insights into the production process. On August 25, 2021, JYP uploaded the "Thunderous" making to , documenting the filming of key scenes, including costume fittings and set preparations that emphasized the video's mythical and explosive motifs. Additionally, on September 16, 2021, STUDIO CHOOM released content from the group's "BE ORIGINAL" dance performance series, revealing the development of elements like formation changes and vocal synchronization during rehearsals. A Japanese adaptation of "Thunderous" was released on October 13, 2021, as part of the single Scars / Thunderous (Japanese ver.), featuring translated lyrics while retaining the original's hip-hop and traditional Korean influences to appeal to international audiences. This version included a performance that adapted the for Japanese promotions, contributing to the song's global reach. Promotions extended to fan events tied to the song's launch, including live performances at major 2021 year-end festivals such as the on December 17, where delivered an extended intro leading into "Thunderous," and the on December 31, blending the track with holiday-themed staging to engage audiences. These appearances, broadcast on national television, amplified fan interaction through real-time trends and virtual viewing parties organized by the .

Reception and accolades

Critical reviews

Upon its release in August 2021, "Thunderous" garnered positive critical acclaim for its bold artistic choices, particularly the fusion of traditional Korean singing with hip-hop and trap elements, which critics hailed as an innovative showcase of the group's self-produced style. included the track in its list of the 25 best songs of 2021, praising how it blends traditional Korean instrumentation with hip-hop and electronic beats to create a dynamic energy, while highlighting the members' intense, precise vocal and rap deliveries that push boundaries while rooting the song in cultural identity. In its review of ' album NOEASY, described "Thunderous" as a fierce opener that lives up to its name, incorporating references and percussion for a confident, textured sound, with standout pre-chorus hooks from Lee Know and Han delivering smug attitude, and a defiant chorus led by Bang Chan and Felix emphasizing the group's unapologetic edge. The album received an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. While some reviews acknowledged the song's overwhelming intensity and niche appeal due to its dense, boisterous production, the consensus remained favorable, with most professional critiques assigning scores of 4/5 or equivalent, commending the title track's experimental vigor despite its polarizing .

Awards and nominations

"Thunderous" garnered widespread acclaim within the South Korean music industry, earning six first-place victories on major music programs during its promotional run in late August and early September 2021, marking one of ' most successful title tracks in terms of program dominance. The song's wins are detailed as follows:
DateProgramWin Number
September 1, 20211st
September 2, 20212nd
September 3, 2021Music Bank3rd
September 5, 20214th
September 8, 20215th
September 9, 20216th
These victories spanned four prominent programs, with multiple triumphs on and , underscoring the track's strong performance and fan support. At the (MAMA), "Thunderous" received nominations for Best Dance Performance – Male Group and Song of the Year, recognizing its intricate choreography, high-energy delivery, and viral appeal, though it did not secure a win. Additionally, as the lead single from ' album , "Thunderous" contributed to the project's success at the in 2022, where Noeasy won the Album Bonsang award, honoring its overall impact and sales achievement.

Fan and cultural impact

The release of "Thunderous" sparked widespread fan engagement through the #ThunderousChallenge on , where users recreated the song's dynamic choreography in user-generated videos, including popular compilations that garnered tens of thousands of likes. These challenges extended to dances and international adaptations, fostering a among ' global known as STAY. By incorporating elements of —a traditional Korean form of musical —the song highlighted Korea's , with the group intentionally blending these sounds to convey their grandeur in a modern context. This fusion not only promoted traditional Korean music on a global stage but also aligned with ' efforts to bridge cultural narratives through . "Thunderous" played a pivotal role in ' breakthrough, serving as the for their 2021 album and solidifying their signature "" concept as a bold retort to critics, which emphasized powerful, unconventional sounds. The track contributed significantly to the expansion of their international fanbase, helping propel the group to forefront status in the industry amid rising global popularity. As of 2025, "Thunderous" maintains strong fan appeal, remaining a staple in ' live performances during their dominATE World Tour setlists across multiple continents.

Commercial performance

Chart positions

"Thunderous" by achieved significant chart success upon its release in August 2021, peaking on multiple national and global rankings. The song's performance highlighted its strong digital sales and streaming presence, particularly in and among international audiences. In , "Thunderous" debuted and peaked at number 33 on the Gaon Digital Chart (now known as the Circle Digital Chart) for the week of August 23–29, 2021, marking ' highest entry on this all-encompassing chart at the time. It performed even stronger on download-specific rankings, reaching number 1 on the Circle Download Chart, where it dominated sales metrics. Globally, "Thunderous" entered the at number 80 in its debut week and number 52 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart. On the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart, it peaked at number 3, driven by robust digital purchases. The song also saw success in other regions. In , the Japanese version featured on the single "Scars / Thunderous (Japanese ver.)," which debuted at number 2 on the , entering the top 10 with over 119,000 first-week sales. In the UK, it charted on specialist lists, peaking at number 29 on the Official Video Streaming Chart and number 82 on the Official Singles Sales Chart. Similarly, it secured entries on Australian specialist charts, including the ARIA Singles Chart extensions for .
ChartPeak PositionNotes
33Debut week: August 23–29, 2021
1Strong sales performance
80Debut week
52Debut week
3Digital sales focus
2For Japanese version single
Official Video Streaming Chart (UK)292 weeks on chart
821 week on chart

Sales and certifications

The song's physical sales were integrated into the album's performance, which sold over 1.8 million copies domestically, with editions themed around "Thunderous" playing a key role in this total. Internationally, the track received a certification from the (RIAJ) for 100,000 digital download units. In the United States, it received a certification from the (RIAA) in for surpassing 500,000 equivalent units.

Streaming milestones

The music video for "Thunderous," released on August 23, 2021, as the from ' album , rapidly amassed views on , reaching 100 million in just 55 days and 16 hours, marking the fastest such for the group at the time. This pace underscored the track's immediate global appeal, surpassing previous Stray Kids videos like "God's Menu" (71 days). By May 12, 2022, the video had exceeded 200 million views, further solidifying its streaming dominance. On February 7, 2025, it hit 400 million views, becoming the group's second to achieve this after "God's Menu." On , "Thunderous" garnered over 320 million streams as of November 2025, reflecting sustained listener engagement years after release. Post-release, it peaked with 14.8 million global daily streams on August 24, 2021, contributing to ' rising presence on the platform's daily charts. The track reached the 300 million streams milestone on June 14, 2025, as the third song to do so, behind "Maniac" and "LALALALA." In , "Thunderous" topped real-time charts on platforms like Bugs upon debut and ranked highly on (No. 18) and (No. 22 real-time, No. 72 Top 100), driving substantial streams that bolstered NOEASY's overall success on domestic services. These performances highlighted the song's role in expanding ' streaming footprint beyond international audiences.

Legacy

Influence on Stray Kids' career

The release of "Thunderous" as the lead single from ' second studio album marked a pivotal moment in the group's career, as the album became their first to surpass one million copies sold, achieving 1.1 million units on the Gaon Chart by August 31, 2021. This milestone elevated from a promising act to an established force within and the broader industry, solidifying their commercial viability and fanbase expansion. The track further entrenched the reputation of 3RACHA—comprising Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han—as key architects of ' sound, with the trio credited for , composition, and alongside co-producer HotSauce. Their hands-on involvement in "Thunderous" highlighted the group's self-production ethos, paving the way for subsequent hits like "Maniac" from the 2022 album , which continued to showcase 3RACHA's versatile hip-hop and experimental style. Following the success of "Thunderous," Stray Kids experienced accelerated career growth, including expanded international tours such as the (2022–2023) and the dominATE World Tour (2024–2025), which featured stadium performances across , , and . The song became a staple in their live setlists, often performed in its Golden Disc Awards version with live band accompaniment to open shows and energize crowds. This period also saw increased high-profile collaborations, reflecting their rising global profile. Stray Kids members have credited "Thunderous" with fostering greater confidence in blending traditional Korean elements, such as pansori vocals and instruments, into their music. Bang Chan noted that the group aimed to "express how grand our traditional musical sounds are through our own music," while Felix emphasized incorporating these cultural aspects to authentically represent their heritage. This experimentation not only resonated with fans but also empowered the group to pursue bolder creative risks in future releases.

Long-term cultural significance

Thunderous has significantly contributed to the Hallyu wave by incorporating —a traditional Korean form of musical storytelling originating in the 17th century—into contemporary , thereby popularizing this cultural element among international audiences and enhancing Korea's through global cultural export. The song features member Changbin rapping in a -inspired style, alongside traditional instruments such as the kkwaenggwari metallic gong from Korean folk ensembles, fused with modern hip-hop, trap percussion, and blaring horns to create a bold, accessible sound. This innovative blend has positioned Thunderous as an entry point for newcomers to gugak (traditional Korean music), reframing ancient traditions through the defiant energy of idol pop and inspiring broader appreciation of Korean heritage worldwide. The track's cultural fusion has spurred numerous covers and reinterpretations, including fan-led dance covers, English vocal adaptations, and rock versions that extend its reach and encourage creative engagement with motifs across diverse communities. Academic studies have further examined its role in cultivating a "new traditional" aesthetic, where soft intersects with historical Korean imagery—like attire and masked dance in the music video—to project a confident for global consumption. , through Thunderous, have been described as unofficial ambassadors of this approach, with the song's performance at events like the amplifying Hallyu's diplomatic influence by drawing significant international viewership, including from regions like and the . By , Thunderous remains relevant in retrospectives that highlight the genre's integration of tradition and modernity, as seen in analyses of gugak-infused tracks that have shaped the . It was prominently featured at the launch ceremony of South Korea's Presidential Committee on Popular Culture Exchange, where performed it alongside other hits to underscore its symbolic value in and Hallyu promotion. The song has also been showcased in international settings, such as upcoming appearances at global festivals like the Music Bank Global Festival in , fostering ongoing exchanges abroad. Thunderous's evolving impact is marked by its transition from a 2021 breakthrough hit to a lasting emblem of ' boundary-pushing innovation, maintaining steady global engagement through sustained streaming and performance longevity. Its reached 400 million views on by February 2025, reflecting enduring listener interest and its role in bridging Korean traditions with universal pop appeal. This trajectory has solidified the song's place as a catalyst for K-pop's cultural depth, influencing subsequent works that explore heritage in mainstream .

Retrospective analyses

In the years following its 2021 release, "Thunderous" has been analyzed in scholarly work as a key example of 's decolonizing potential, where incorporate traditional Korean elements to reclaim and globalize national . Kaitlyn Diane Read's 2022 honors thesis examines the song's and performances, noting how settings like villages and UNESCO-listed Fortress, combined with attire and patterns, evoke a "new traditional" that asserts post-colonial confidence by blending soft with indigenous aesthetics, moving beyond Western-dominated K-pop tropes. Musicologists have praised "Thunderous" for modernizing , the traditional Korean narrative singing form recognized by , through its fusion with hip-hop and electronic production. In a 2025 essay for the Norient book Home Is Where the Heart Strives, Paola Laforgia highlights how the track's use of pansori-inspired vocals and rhythms—such as Changbin's rap emulating the sorikkun storyteller—transforms this historically marginalized art into a dynamic, youth-oriented global sound, preserving its emotional depth while adapting it to contemporary contexts like K-pop's hybrid genres. Laforgia argues this approach questions K-pop's "Korean-ness" amid , positioning "Thunderous" as a bridge between heritage and innovation. Retrospective comparisons often position "Thunderous" as a pivotal in Stray Kids' discography, establishing their signature maximalist style that influenced subsequent releases. A 2024 analysis of the group's music trajectory describes the song's integration of traditional Korean elements such as vocals and the kkwaenggwari gong with trap beats as a toward cultural fusion, paving the way for later tracks such as "MANIAC" (2022), which amplifies its bold creativity and defiance, and "" (2022), which extends the playful yet assertive lyricism into more versatile concepts. This shift solidified Stray Kids' self-produced identity, enabling experimental expansions in albums like 5-STAR (2023) and ATE (2024). As of 2025, reviews of ' dominATE world tour underscore "Thunderous" enduring role in their success, with live renditions featuring remixed elements that amplify its high-energy choreography and crowd interaction. Billboard's coverage of the New York concert highlights the tour's sold-out stadiums and the group's dynamic performances. Similarly, The Korea Herald's tour recap notes its placement early in sets alongside newer hits like "JJAM," illustrating how "Thunderous" bridges their early breakthroughs with current achievements, drawing thunderous audience responses across continents.

Production credits

Songwriting and composition credits

"Thunderous" credits its lyrics to the Stray Kids production subunit 3RACHA, comprising Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han. The composition is credited to 3RACHA alongside producer HotSauce. Arrangement responsibilities were shared by HotSauce and Bang Chan. The song's publishing is handled by JYP Publishing (KOMCA), with additional international publishing through and .
RoleCredits
LyricsBang Chan, Changbin (Seo Chang-Bin), Han (Han Ji-Sung)
CompositionBang Chan, Changbin, Han, HotSauce
ArrangementBang Chan, HotSauce
EditingHotSauce, Lee Kyung-Won
Keyboards, Drum Programming, Computer ProgrammingHotSauce
MixingTony Maserati, David K. Younghyun
RecordingLee Sang-Yeop, Im Hong-Jin
PublishersJYP Publishing (KOMCA), Sony Music Publishing, Warner Chappell Music

Personnel and recording details

"Thunderous" features lead vocals performed by all eight members of —Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, , Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N.—with each contributing to the rap and vocal sections that blend hip-hop, EDM, and traditional Korean elements. The track was recorded by engineers Lee Sang-Yeop and Im Hong-Jin at JYP Entertainment's facilities in . Digital editing was handled by HotSauce and Lee Kyung-Won. Mixing was conducted by , assisted by mix engineer David K. Younghyun. As track 2 on the album , it was mastered by Kwon Nam-woo at 821 Sound Mastering. Additional instrumentation includes keyboards and drum programming by HotSauce, who also contributed to the arrangement alongside Bang Chan.

Release formats and history

"Thunderous" was initially released as the lead single from Stray Kids' second studio album Noeasy on August 23, 2021, available in digital download and streaming formats worldwide through JYP Entertainment. The track was accessible immediately on major platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music, enabling global streaming from launch day. Physical formats accompanied the album's release, featuring "Thunderous" as the second track across various CD editions such as the KiT version and Standard versions A, B, and C, each including a photobook, lyrics booklet, stickers, posters, and photocards. Vinyl editions of Noeasy were later produced and distributed, expanding the physical availability beyond the initial CD pressings. In , a localized version titled "Sorikun" (Thunderous Japanese ver.) was pre-released digitally on September 23, 2021, before its full physical and digital single release on October 13, 2021, as part of the double A-side Scars / Thunderous under and . This edition featured adapted Japanese lyrics while retaining the original's hip-hop and traditional Korean elements. The release was managed by in , with handling U.S. distribution and international promotion following their expanded partnership in 2022, which retroactively supported the track's global reach including RIAA certifications. Regional variations included broadcast adaptations for South Korean television performances to align with content guidelines, though the core single remained consistent across markets.

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