Photo Credits: SM Entertainment

aespa’s latest music video for “Rich Man,” the title track from their 6th mini album released on September 5, 2025, has been a spectacular event in the K-pop world, amassing an impressive 1.8 million views on YouTube just four hours after its debut. The buzz around this release highlights a strong mix of admiration and discourse, reflecting aespa’s ongoing evolution as a group unafraid to experiment with sound and visuals.

The “Rich Man” music video offers a visually overwhelming but captivating feast, marked by Director Rima Yoon’s signature style filled with bold colors, dynamic settings, and strong choreography moments. Fans have noted the striking use of American football themes and a metallic, rockstar aesthetic that departs from aespa’s typical cyber-pop image. The electric guitar-driven dance track blends rock influences with the group’s futuristic identity, signaling a new sonic direction that emphasizes boldness and resilience.

Importantly, “Rich Man” is not about material wealth or traditional riches. Instead, aespa redefines the concept of being “rich” as a state of self-worth, confidence, and independence. The repetitive hook “I am a rich man” serves as a mantra emphasizing self-empowerment and pride in one’s identity. Lyrics convey that richness comes from inner strength and self-love, an idea that has resonated and sparked significant interpretation among listeners. This thematic focus makes the song a contemporary anthem for confidence and self-affirmation.

Audience sentiment has been mixed but passionate. While many praise the music video’s production quality and aespa’s visual charisma, some express frustration with the song’s repetitive chorus and perceive the hook as less catchy than those in previous hits like “Whiplash” or “Armageddon.” Some comments mention a sense of monotony or find the chorus phrase awkward for repeated singing. However, other listeners appreciate this repetition as reflective of the song’s empowering message, viewing it as a lyrical anchor or affirmation rather than mere filler.

The mini album “Rich Man” also offers diverse tracks beyond the title song, including genres ranging from hip-hop dance to R&B and atmospheric pop, which fans have highlighted as strengths and promising highlights on streaming platforms.
With “Rich Man,” aespa continues to push creative boundaries both sonically and visually. The combination of dynamic imagery, a progressive rock-inspired sound, and a bold message of self-confidence marks a significant chapter in their discography. The early high view count and active fan discussions show that aespa’s influential presence continues to invigorate the K-pop scene, sparking both admiration and thoughtful debate.

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