How You Like That (Japanese Ver.)

Lore & Background

The song's atmosphere remains rooted in themes of empowerment and unapologetic confidence, translated through the lens of Japanese pop sensibilities. The adaptation preserves the dramatic tension of the original—the moment before the beat drops, the feeling of walking into a room knowing you own it—while introducing subtle melodic shifts that resonate with local listeners. It reinforces the idea that BLACKPINK is not just a K-pop group but a global phenomenon capable of evolving their art for any stage.

In Their Own Story

The lights dim in a Tokyo arena, the air thick with anticipation as thousands hold up lightsticks. A single spotlight hits the center stage where four figures stand in silhouette, wearing outfits that blend futuristic armor with traditional elegance. As the opening synth swells, translated lyrics echo through the venue, carrying a message of defiance and self-assurance. The crowd roars, not just for the melody they recognize from abroad, but for this new, localized version that feels uniquely theirs. When the bass finally kicks in, the energy is electric, a shared moment where language dissolves into pure rhythm.

Reader's Guide

This track appears as part of BLACKPINK's Japanese debut single releases, specifically included on their first full Japanese album, THE ALBUM (Japanese Ver.), released in late 2021. The release strategy involved multiple editions to cater to collectors and digital listeners alike. The song retains the core structure of the original hit but features fully sung verses in Japanese by all members, with the iconic chorus often blending Korean and Japanese phrases for maximum impact. Production credits remain consistent with the original's high-gloss sound, featuring top-tier international producers who helped craft the global trap-pop aesthetic. Chart performance was immediate and robust, debuting at number one on major Japanese music charts including Oricon and Billboard Japan Hot 100. The single became a staple in their live sets during subsequent tours across Asia, often serving as an opening act to energize crowds before transitioning into other hits.

Did You Know?

• The Japanese version features the members singing all verses in Japanese while retaining key Korean phrases in the chorus for authenticity.
• It was released alongside a remixed EP that included other popular tracks from their debut album adapted for the Japanese market.
• The music video concept for this release often incorporates visual elements specific to Japanese fashion and urban aesthetics distinct from the original MV.
• This track helped solidify BLACKPINK's status as one of the first K-pop groups to achieve simultaneous chart-topping success in both Korea and Japan.