In an Instagram live, Halsey explained why she included Suga on the track, stating "Yoongi is really introspective and has this really intelligent perspective on where we are and what we are doing in our unique lifestyles".[7] "Suga's Interlude" is a "downtrodden"[8]K-pop[1][2] ballad based around a "somber piano melody",[8] exploring themes of fulfilment, self-loathing and egotism while "encouraging fans to keep pursuing their dreams and look to the future".[9]
Lexi Lane from Atwood Magazine mentioned that the "combination of rap and Halsey's slower singing parts mesh well together sonically and provide a bridge between languages and cultures".[10] Sara Delgado, writing for Teen Vogue, described the track as a "soft tempo track" that "mixes piano keys with airy synths", along with "Halsey's soulful vocals with Suga's sharp rap skills".[7] In an article for Consequence of Sound, Nara Corcoran called the track a "downtrodden ballad" with Halsey "singing sorrowfully over a somber piano melody", and Suga "rapping in Korean quickly but gently" for various verses.[11] Jason Lipshutz of Billboard described the production as "mournful, piano-led" that sees "Halsey [unfurl] a full chorus that focuses on inner struggle" while "Suga flies in with quick-hitting rhymes". Lipshutz also mentioned the "creative chemistry on display" that suggested a "fruitful partnership", as a possible reason why Suga appeared on the track.[12]
