EXO 'Wolf': Korean VS Chinese Version

EXO has finally released the videos for their new single "Wolf" after oh-so-many tantalizing teasers.

EXO-K fans get a Korean version, EXO-M fans have a Chinese version - and well, fans of both get the pleasure of enjoying both videos.

The unified EXO group released the new music videos on May 30 as a glorious prequel to their highly anticipated new album XOXO on June 3.

The "Wolf" chorus is definitely catchy in both versions, even if the choreography for it is a little silly - the wolf ears kind of distract from the hardcore tone of the song and all that bass-thumping. The dancing overall is dynamic and powerful, but with a lot less wolf-like behavior than the second teaser video alluded too.

But maybe that is for the best - a lot of fans were shaking their heads over the animalistic crawling around seen in the teaser, worried that it may make the video a bit farcical.

The end result, however, is not. It is an interesting video that is reminiscent of a darker Super Junior, and there is nothing wrong with that. In fact, it would be really interesting to see a dance battle between the two groups... Super Junior with their tight, precise choreography and EXO with their in-your-face, beastly dance moves.

After watching and re-watching both versions of the song, I was trying to determine which version I liked more. There are good and bad points to both.

The song's opening rap is best delivered in Korean. When listening to the Chinese lyrics it feels like there are too many syllables thrown in and it is disruptive to the delivery.

However, when it gets to the slower-paced breakdown around 1:15, I am going to have to side with the Chinese version. The Korean version seems rigid and rough, whereas the Chinese version has a nice flow to it.

The same goes for the quick-delivered group rap portion around 1:50, the Chinese has a nice ring to it. The lyrics meld seamlessly into one another and make for a much better presentation.

As far as the chorus is concerned, they are very similar, but the Korean version definitely adds a level of power that the smooth-sounding Chinese lyrics cannot accentuate.

The Korean bridge is clearly superior. At 2:30 we have a similar issue as with the opening - the Chinese lyrics feel muddled and cannot be presented in the same way as the more direct sounding lyrics in Korean.

As for the ending of "Wolf," it is a complete toss up. They are similar yet have their own unique flair. Too close to call.

Taken as a whole song, "Wolf" in both languages is good. Sure, it's kind of all over the place, and some parts are stronger that others. If I had to make a final verdict, I'd have to say the Korean version wins, but barely.

I would like to point out, however, that a complete EXO, with both K and M joined, is really great - enjoyable to watch with a little something for everyone. When the guys head out on their promotions for the track and XOXO, they will be able to give fans twice the excitement and double the fun. And that is a beautiful thing.

Which version of "Wolf" do you like better?

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EXO
EXO-K
EXO-M
Wolf
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