Walk in Jin's footsteps at this BTS-inspired art trail

BTS ARMY, this one's for you. The National Gallery Singapore has turned Jin's music video 'Don't Say You Love Me' into a walking trail through its historic halls. You don't need a light stick, just a phone and a love for cinematic architecture.

The trail takes about 40 minutes and leads you through five stops across the former City Hall and Supreme Court buildings. Each stop matches a location from the video to an emotional beat of the song. Think of it as a music video pilgrimage, but indoors and air-conditioned.

What to do first

Grab a red booklet at the visitor counters — or download it — because that's the same official Gallery Guide Jin carries in the video. It's your map and your souvenir rolled into one.

Start at the Coleman Street Entrance. From there, the trail winds through the City Hall Wing, the Supreme Court Foyer, and the UOB Southeast Asia Galleries. You'll cross the Lower Link Bridge, which connects the two buildings — a spot that feels straight out of the video's moody transitions.

The five stops

The trail is structured around five key locations, each tied to a moment in the song. You'll see the spaces where Jin wandered, sang, and brooded — now transformed into a gallery experience.

Don't expect a screening or props. The magic is in the overlay: stand where he stood, look where he looked, and let the architecture do the rest. The Gallery has matched each stop to an emotional beat, so take your time and soak it in.

• Coleman Street Entrance
• City Hall Wing
• Supreme Court Foyer & Foundation Stone
• UOB Southeast Asia Gallery 1 & 2 (including Boschbrand, or 'Forest Fire')
• Lower Link Bridge

Who it suits

This is a must for BTS fans who want to connect with Jin's artistry in a new way. But even if you're not a fan, it's a clever way to explore the Gallery's historic spaces — you'll see corners you might otherwise rush past.

It's also a good option for families or groups with mixed interests. The self-guided format means you can go at your own pace, and the 40-minute length is short enough to hold attention spans.

Practical details

The trail is wheelchair accessible, so everyone can join. It runs daily from 10am to 7pm, and the nearest MRT is City Hall — easy to get to.

You'll need a General Admission pass to enter the exhibitions along the trail. The good news: it's free for Singaporeans and PRs. Tourists pay S$20, with concessions available.

Here's what might catch you out: the trail is self-guided, so you're on your own for navigation. The red booklet is your best friend — grab it early. Also, note that the trail includes the UOB Southeast Asia Galleries, which might have their own opening quirks, but the overall Gallery hours cover it.

What to skip

If you're not into slow, reflective walking or if you're short on time, this trail might not be your thing. It's a gentle wander, not a high-energy attraction.

Skip it if you're expecting to see actual BTS merchandise or recreations of the video set. This is about the real spaces, not a museum exhibit.

The verdict

If you're a BTS fan, this is an unmissable pilgrimage that blends K-pop with Singapore's colonial heritage. Even if you're not, it's a fresh way to see the National Gallery. But if you're allergic to slow, contemplative walks or non-fans, you might find it underwhelming. Go for the architecture, stay for the mood.