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20cm

  • Writer: beomiebear
    beomiebear
  • May 3, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 28

⋆ Genre: Slow R&B

⋆ Producing Credits: Jordan Kyle, Shin Hyeon

⋆ Writing/Composing Credits: Jordan Kyle, Shin Hyeon, Jayrah Gibson, danke, Slow Rabbit, ADORA, "Hitman" Bang, Hiss Noise, Bobby Chung, Joni

ABOUT/MEANING: ‘20cm’ captures the bittersweet experience of growing up, reflecting how time and change can subtly shift the relationships around us. The 20-centimeter (approx. 8 inches) difference symbolizes both physical growth and the emotional distance that comes with maturing, as childhood friendships evolve into something more uncertain and complex. The song conveys the tension between familiarity and change - where once-simple connections begin to take on new meaning, and emotions that were easy to understand now feel unfamiliar. As the boys* navigate this stage of adolescence, they find themselves caught between the comfort of the past and the excitement (and hesitation) of something new, encapsulating the delicate balance between holding on and moving forward.

*For further context on the song check out 'The Dream Chapter: MAGIC' album summary

LYRICS - ENGLISH TRANSLATION


Oh~ oh baby, let's go

Since we were young, we stuck together

During the hot summer, in the short time, we didn't see each other

I’ve grown taller

My voice has become lower

I feel awkward from head to toe

We are as awkward as my grown height

(To you) a friend,

I start acting like a man 

Every night, without a sound

My height and my feelings towards you seem to grow side by side

(My heart when I look at you)

My heart

(It's very different from before)

My feelings that have grown

I try to hold them back

But they keep getting ahead on their own

(A little bit further apart)

You don't know

(Our 20cm difference)

When we’re next to each other

The scent of your shampoo tickles my nose

I want to gently pat your head

(As you look up at me)

I want to tickle your chin

The number of your fluttering eyelashes

One by one like a math equation

I want to memorize them all

Every night, without a sound

My height and my feelings towards you seem to grow side by side

(My heart when I look at you)

My heart

(It's very different from before)

My feelings that have grown

I try to hold them back

But they keep getting ahead on their own

(A little bit further apart)

You don't know

(Our 20cm difference)

The books on the top shelves of the library

I’ll take them out for you

When you need tteokbokki

CONTEXT/EXPANATION: Tteokbokki is a popular Korean food made from chewy rice cakes cooked in a red spicy broth.

When you need someone to be on your side,

If you just look up

At that place, I will always be

I didn’t know, your scent

Your voice, your small hands

Were all so special

(My heart when I look at you)

(It is very different from before)

I'm surprised at my height and my shoulders,

They have grown to perfectly fit you

(The distance between you and me) 

(I want to get closer)

So, would it be okay

If I come a little closer to you?

Just a little bit closer to you

Woah yeah 

Helpful Context (Album Summary): 'The Dream Chapter: Magic' continues the boys’ journey as they embrace the boundless possibilities of youth. Defying expectations, they explore new experiences - young love, adventure, and the freedom to be themselves. In this magical space, they find both escape and empowerment, further solidifying their bond as they face the emotional chaos of adolescence. The album celebrates the spirit of adolescence: a time of wonder, youthful rebellion, and self-discovery, where “magic” offers both escape and endless possibility.


Helpful Context (Album Series Summary): The Dream Chapter trilogy follows five boys, united by one dream, navigating the transition from childhood to adolescence. Set in a dreamlike world, through themes of friendship, self-discovery, and emotional growth, the albums explore the complexities of this pivotal time in life. The series also mirrors TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s own journey as artists, reflecting their evolution from trainees to debut artists and their pursuit of dreams.


*In the context of TXT’s discography, the term ‘boy’/‘boys’ are used to represent both the members themselves as well as serve as generalized protagonists embodying the universal experiences of youth.

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