BigHit Music officially announced on Friday that BTS will release their fifth studio album, “Arirang”, on March 20, 2026.
The album’s title is named after a centuries-old Korean folk song known for expressing deep emotions and desires. According to BigHit Music, “Arirang” symbolizes the album’s emotional themes and marks the group’s return after nearly four years away from group music. The album will contain 14 tracks, the titles of which will be revealed at a later date
Pre-orders for the album began on January 16 at 11 a.m. Korean Standard Time at several retailers, including Weverse Shop, Target, and music stores worldwide, according to the agency. Korea JoongAng Daily.
Fans can choose from various physical formats, including CDs in three different versions: “Rooted in Korea Ver.”, “Rooted in Music Ver.” and “Living Legend Ver.”, as well as vinyl editions and a special travel CD set. Digital versions will also be available on platforms such as iTunes and Spotify.
The seven members – RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook – were actively involved in the writing and production process of “Arirang”. BigHit stated that the album reflects each member’s personal thoughts and artistic direction expressing the emotions and reflections experienced during their journey, Forbes reported.
The label stressed that the record contains honest stories that the members wanted to share with their fans, ARMY, who have been patiently waiting for the group’s full return.
This marks BTS’ first group album since their anthology “Proof” in June 2022. The members completed mandatory military service requirements, with the last member finishing in 2023, allowing them to reunite for this major project.
The album is part of a larger comeback that includes an extensive world tour starting in April 2026, covering over 70 shows across 34 regions, including Asia, North America, South America, Europe and Australia, through March 2027, as per CNA lifestyle.
