BTS confirm new album ‘ARIRANG’ with 14 tracks, vinyl editions, and March release

Highlights

• BTS will release their fifth album, ARIRANG, on March 20.
  
• The album includes 14 tracks shaped by the members’ recent experiences.
  
• Fans can preorder 10 vinyl editions and special CD versions.
  
• A global tour will follow, running from 2026 into 2027.
  

A return after four years

After nearly four years away from group releases, BTS are preparing to return. BigHit Music confirmed on Friday that RM, Jin, Jimin, V, Suga, Jung Kook, and j-hope will release a new album titled ARIRANG on March 20. It will be their fifth full-length album.

The announcement was shared through social media, marking the group’s first major project since their hiatus began.

What we know about ARIRANG

Retailer Target announced it is partnering with BTS for exclusive preorder editions. Fans will be able to buy 10 different vinyl versions of ARIRANG, along with two special CD editions that include collectible photocards.

BigHit also shared a preorder link through WeVerse, HYBE’s fan platform, though no album artwork has been revealed yet.

The meaning behind ‘ARIRANG’

The word “Arirang” has no single fixed definition. It is best known as the title of a traditional Korean folk song, first appearing in writing in a manuscript from 1756.

Over time, the word became linked to Korea’s history and struggle, sometimes used as a symbol of resistance. Its meanings range from ideas of homecoming to separation, endurance, and hope for reunion.

A 14-track album shaped by real life

Earlier this month, BTS said their new album would include 14 tracks reflecting their personal thoughts and experiences.

BigHit Music said the group focused heavily on the album during the second half of last year, aiming to capture who they are today as artists.

RM teased the comeback on WeVerse, saying the music was coming together well and asking fans to look forward to it. Jung Kook added that this spring would be especially meaningful.

March comeback confirmed

BigHit first hinted at the return with a short message on X reading, “March 20 comeback confirmed.” This followed news from last summer, when BTS said they would start working on a new album in July 2025 and aim for a spring 2026 release.

World tour plans

BTS also announced a major world tour running from 2026 into 2027. The tour will begin in South Korea in April and end in March 2027, with more than 70 dates across Asia, North America, South America, Australia, and Europe.

This will be their first headline tour since Permission to Dance on Stage in 2021–22.

Why BTS were on hiatus

The group’s long break was due to South Korea’s mandatory military service. All able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 must serve 18 to 21 months.

The members staggered their enlistments so they could continue solo projects during the break. Jin, the oldest, enlisted first in 2022 and was discharged in June 2024. Suga, who served as a social service agent due to a shoulder injury, was the last to finish in June 2025.

With all seven now done with service, ARIRANG marks BTS’s full return as a group.