Global K-pop phenomenon BTS is officially entering a brand-new era. Just when fans believed the excitement around their long-awaited comeback couldn’t get any bigger, the group revealed the title of their upcoming album — and it carries deep cultural and emotional meaning. BTS will return with their fifth studio album, Arirang, marking their first group release in nearly four years.
At first glance, the title may surprise international fans, but Arirang is one of Korea’s most treasured folk songs, believed to be more than 600 years old and known to have over 3,600 variations. Often referred to as Korea’s unofficial national anthem, the song expresses emotions of separation, longing, sorrow, and enduring hope — themes that mirror BTS’ own journey of distance, reunion, and resilience.
The word Arirang is also closely tied to the Korean concept of “Han”, a shared emotional spirit shaped by hardship, perseverance, and healing. Linguistically, “ari” means beautiful, while “rang” refers to a beloved one, loosely translating to “my beloved.” The song’s cultural importance is so profound that it has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of South Korea.
BTS went on group hiatus in 2022, as members RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook pursued solo careers and completed mandatory military service. Their reunion through an album named Arirang feels intentionally symbolic — a homecoming not just for the members, but for their bond with fans worldwide.
Music critic Lim Hee Yun told the Korea Herald that the album title reflects BTS reuniting with one another and reconnecting with their devoted fandom, ARMY. It represents both personal return and collective reunion after years apart.
On January 16, BIGHIT MUSIC officially confirmed the album title and release details. Arirang will drop on March 20 at 1 PM KST and will feature 14 tracks centered on personal stories, emotional reflection, and renewed artistic identity.
In a statement, the label shared, “This album holds special significance as it marks the group’s first release in three years and nine months, while also indicating the direction BTS will take going forward.” They added that the members were deeply involved in songwriting and production, infusing their experiences, emotions, and growth into every track.
Following the album launch, BTS is set to embark on a massive world tour, spanning 34+ cities and 79 shows, making their grand return to global stages.
The kings are back — and Arirang is just the beginning of BTS’ next legendary chapter.