A fresh BTS album is on the horizon: Everything you need to know | AP News
NEW YORK (AP) — The globally adored K-pop sensation BTS is poised to make a comeback after a hiatus of almost four years. Well, not quite back yet, but close.
On Thursday morning, BigHit Music, the entertainment powerhouse behind the group, announced via social media that the seven-member band—RM, Jin, Jimin, V, Suga, Jung Kook, and j-hope—will unveil their new album titled "ARIRANG" on March 20. This album marks the fifth installment in their discography.
So, what should fans anticipate from this upcoming release?
Here’s what we know about BTS’s new album, ‘ARIRANG’:
In addition to revealing the album title, Target has made headlines by collaborating with BTS to offer exclusive preorder editions of "ARIRANG." Beginning at 9 p.m. Eastern on Thursday, dedicated fans can secure one of ten different limited-edition vinyl albums. For those who prefer CDs, there are two exclusive versions available, complete with collectible photocards.
Beyond this exciting news, specific details about the album remain scarce. BigHit Music provided a link to WeVerse, the online platform owned by their management company HYBE, which included information about international pre-orders for "ARIRANG," but notably left out any album artwork.
Earlier this month, BigHit Music released a somewhat enigmatic message on X, stating, "March 20 comeback confirmed." While this was not particularly detailed, it did reinforce previous announcements made last summer when the group hinted at a world tour and confirmed that a new album would be launching in the spring of 2026. At that time, they mentioned beginning work on the project in July 2025.
Will BTS embark on a tour soon?
In an exciting update, the band announced a world tour for 2026-2027, which will kick off in South Korea in April. This tour will span until March 2027, featuring over 70 performances across Asia, North America, South America, Australia, and Europe.
This upcoming tour represents the group’s first headline shows since their previous "Permission to Dance on Stage" tour held in 2021-22. Fans can check the full list of tour dates here.
What caused BTS’s long hiatus?
All seven members of BTS were required to fulfill South Korea’s compulsory military service, which mandates that all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 serve for 18 to 21 months. This system aims to deter potential aggression from North Korea.
While the law allows certain exemptions for athletes and musicians who have achieved significant honors, K-pop idols and entertainers do not receive such privileges.
Rapper Suga was the last member to conclude his military obligations, having served as a social service agent due to a shoulder injury that prevented him from traditional military service. He completed his duties in June 2025.
The other six members—RM, V, Jimin, Jung Kook, Jin, and j-hope—completed their service in the army. To manage their enlistments, BTS staggered their military commitments, allowing each member to pursue solo endeavors during their break.
Jin, being the eldest, was the first to enlist in 2022 and also the first to return, concluding his service in June 2024.
