Jung Kook Returns With New Justin Timberlake Collaboration. But…Why?

Jung Kook surprised his legion of fans recently by announcing a surprise new collaboration. The BTS star shared that a new version of his single “3D” was set to drop on Friday, November 24, with Justin Timberlake in tow. While longtime lovers of Jung Kook are usually thrilled to hear from the singer, this new remix seems odd, and the timing of it is very strange.

Jung Kook and Timberlake’s “3D” remix has arrived, but what purpose does it serve? The tune was originally selected as the second official single from the South Korean star’s debut album Golden. The original version, which featured Jack Harlow, was released in late September. “3D” quickly debuted at No. 5 on the Hot 100, giving the singer another historic win on the chart.

In the weeks since “3D” arrived, Jung Kook has moved on from the song. He released his solo album, and alongside it, a newer single, “Standing Next to You.” That tune is clearly his focus at the moment, and it still sits at No. 1 on the Digital Song Sales chart this frame.

At the same time, “3D” is falling down the Hot 100. This week, it dips from No. 58 to No. 84. In the coming frame or two, it might disappear entirely.

It’s not uncommon for pop stars like Jung Kook to release new versions of their current singles. Billboard groups consumption data connected to all remixes and reworkings of a track in with the original, which makes it easier for a song to rise on the weekly rankings. It’s a tried-and-true method to send a hit soaring…but usually only if it’s being actively promoted.

Jung Kook doesn’t appear to be focused on “3D” at the moment. It’s not the newest single from his just-dropped album, and it would be odd to see him return his attention to an older cut, especially one that seemingly wasn’t experiencing any noticeable gains from any other special event. In essence, it doesn’t look like there’s any real reason to release this collaboration—at least not one that’s evident from an onlooker’s perspective.

So, why recruit one of the biggest pop stars to sing on a cut that’s in the past? It’s possible that the collaboration was recorded weeks or months ago, but Jung Kook and his team were too busy to properly release it. Now, it’s something of an afterthought, but at least it’s out in the world. It’s also possible that Timberlake only recently reached out to offer to duet, and it was too good of an opportunity to pass up, even if the timing wasn’t opportune.

If this version of “3D” had been released in the days following the song’s initial arrival, it might have been much more important. The tune could have debuted higher on the Hot 100 than No. 5, perhaps even making a play for the No. 1 spot.

Whatever the reason for the new “3D” collaboration, some fans seem to be enjoying it. As of this writing, the track has broken into the top five on iTunes and appears to be selling well. It’s unlikely that the effort will make “3D” an even bigger hit than it was before, but it could help its chances on a handful of Billboard’s radio charts, especially some radio-focused ones that are aimed at more mature audiences who know and love Timberlake, despite many of his recent controversies.

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