For four years, BTS remained everywhere yet apart. Their music continued to dominate global charts, their members grew as solo artists, and ARMY kept the group’s legacy alive. But fans waited for one thing: all seven members together again.
That reunion arrives with “ARIRANG,” BTS’ 10th studio album released on March 20, 2026. The record marks the group’s first full-group release since 2022’s anthology album Proof, but it is more than a comeback built on nostalgia. It reflects the growth, experiences, and individual journeys of seven artists who return with a renewed identity.
Recorded from July to November 2025, the album was largely created in Los Angeles, where the members spent months working together again. Their routine reflected the discipline that has defined their career, balancing training, studio sessions, and creative preparation.
The album features collaborations with artists including Diplo, Flume, Kevin Parker of Tame Impala, JPEGMAFIA, Mike WiLL Made-It, El Guincho, Teezo Touchdown, Ryan Tedder, and longtime BTS producer Pdogg. However, the core of ARIRANG remains its members, with six members receiving songwriting credits and RM contributing to 13 of the album’s 14 tracks.
Rather than recreating the sound of BTS’ peak global years, ARIRANG presents where the group stands in 2026.
The album title draws from “Arirang,” Korea’s traditional song associated with longing, separation, and endurance. BTS incorporates cultural references into its music, with the opening track “Body to Body” blending a traditional melody with modern production.
Unlike previous English-language hits such as “Dynamite” and “Butter,” the album focuses less on global radio appeal and more on BTS’ evolving musical identity. Tracks like “Hooligan,” “FYA,” and “2.0” revisit the group’s hip-hop roots while introducing heavier production and experimental elements.
The members’ solo careers also shaped the album. Their individual projects allowed them to explore different genres and creative directions, bringing new perspectives back into BTS’ music.
The group’s return extends beyond the album. The ARIRANG World Tour features 85 stadium shows across 2026 and 2027, covering Asia, North America, Europe, South America, and Australia. All announced dates sold out, reaffirming BTS’ status as one of the world’s biggest touring acts.
The comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square drew 104,000 attendees and was streamed globally, while related fan events and a documentary expanded the celebration surrounding the release.
More than a reunion, ARIRANG represents BTS’ evolution. After years apart, the group returns not to repeat its past success, but to show how seven artists have grown into something stronger together.