BTS makes a triumphant return after 3 years, topping charts with their new album 'ARIRANG' and the hit song 'SWIM'.
March/21/2026 12:07Related Groups & Members
BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan), which made a comeback after 3 years and 9 months, has dominated the album and music charts, announcing the 'return of the king'. According to the HANTEO chart in Korea on the 21st, their 5th full album 'ARIRANG' sold 3.98 million copies on the first day, recording the number one spot on the daily chart. After its release at 1 PM on the 20th, it achieved million-seller status in just 10 minutes, demonstrating the explosive reaction from music fans worldwide who had eagerly awaited their new work for 3 years and 9 months. Previously, BTS's highest initial sales (sales in the first week after release) were 3.37 million copies for their 4th album 'MAP OF THE SOUL: 7' released in February 2020. 'ARIRANG' is showing momentum that surpasses this record on the first day alone, and with much of the initial sales period still remaining, there is great interest in what records it will set in the future. Additionally, this work has topped the iTunes 'Top Albums' chart in 88 countries and regions worldwide, including Italy, Mexico, and Sweden, proving their global popularity once again. The music source is also performing well. The title track 'SWIM' recorded number one on the iTunes 'Top Songs' chart in 90 countries and regions, including the USA, Japan, the UK, Germany, and France, by 9 AM on the 21st. Furthermore, many of the album's tracks are charting high, showing the high interest in BTS's comeback. They are also making their presence felt on domestic music charts in Korea. 'SWIM' went straight to number one on MelOn and Bugs' real-time charts. Notably, all tracks from the album entered the real-time chart 'TOP 100' on MelOn. 'SWIM' maintained the number one position from 2 PM on the 20th to midnight on the 21st, and as of 10 AM on the 21st, it continues to hold the top spot. Additionally, the track 'Body to Body' recorded number two on MelOn's 'TOP 100' as of 10 AM on the 21st, with BTS occupying the top of the charts. The response to the music video for 'SWIM' is also enthusiastic. The music video topped YouTube's 'Trending Music' in 70 countries and regions, including the USA, UK, Mexico, and France. Furthermore, the official audio video for 'Body to Body' is also ranking high in many countries and regions, attracting significant attention. Released at 1 PM on the 20th, 'ARIRANG' is a work that embodies BTS's identity and the universal emotions they have faced. The title track 'SWIM' sings about the attitude of continuing to swim forward without stopping amidst the rough waves of life, delivering a deep message of empathy to those living their best lives in their respective places. BTS is scheduled to hold 'BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG' at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul at 8 PM on the 21st, where they will premiere the new songs, including the title track.
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BTS reunited on stage for the first time in 3.5 years during 'BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG' in Seoul, streamed live on Netflix. Members shared heartfelt messages with fans, expressing their joy and gratitude. They performed several hits, including 'Butter' and 'Dynamite,' and discussed their journey and future plans.
BTS has reunited for a live performance in Seoul, marking their first complete stage in over three years. The event, 'BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG,' is streaming on Netflix. Their new album, titled 'ARIRANG,' explores their identity and emotions through music, drawing from the traditional Korean folk song. The members express their commitment and excitement for this comeback.
Ahead of BTS's concert at Gwanghwamun, SUGA posted on Weverse urging fans to dress warmly and not to overexert themselves. He thanked the staff and safety personnel for their hard work. BTS also released their 5th full album 'ARIRANG', selling 3.98 million copies on the first day, and will perform new songs at the concert.
BTS's 'THE COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG' takes place in Seoul, celebrating their 5th album. The event features new performances and can be streamed globally on Netflix. With a new setlist and a focus on Korean culture, the concert marks their first full group performance in over three years. BTS expresses excitement and gratitude ahead of the show.
BTS's comeback with their 5th album 'ARIRANG' transforms Seoul into a vibrant cultural hub. The event includes a media facade at Sungnyemun, drone shows, and interactive experiences like the 'LOVE SONG LOUNGE.' The festival runs until April 19, showcasing Seoul's diverse attractions and celebrating the bond between BTS and their fans.
In an interview with Zane Lowe, BTS expresses their love for each other and discusses their new album 'ARIRANG', sharing insights on their creative process, experiences during military service, and their strong bond as a group. They emphasize their commitment to continue making music together for years to come.
During a Weverse live stream, BTS's RM shared details about his ankle injury sustained during rehearsal, expressing hope to recover before their comeback concert. He reassured fans that the injury isn't serious and emphasized the importance of their upcoming performance. The group is excited about their new album 'ARIRANG' and the title track 'SWIM', reflecting their identity and experiences.
Ahead of BTS's comeback concert at Gwanghwamun, Jimin and V shared their excitement with fans, urging them to prioritize safety and care during the event. Jimin expressed joy about seeing fans and reminded them to inform safety personnel if they feel unwell. V emphasized the importance of a safe and enjoyable atmosphere, thanking fans for their support and expressing eagerness to meet them.
As BTS's concert approaches, South Korea's Ministry of Culture issues a disaster alert for the venue. Safety checks were conducted to ensure crowd management and emergency response, anticipating up to 260,000 attendees. The government emphasizes safety and warns against ticket scalping, urging cooperation from fans.
As BTS makes a full comeback with their title track 'SWIM', Hollywood actress Lili Reinhart shares a supportive video on Instagram. She introduces the members, who maintain poses, with V playfully engaging the camera. Jimin humorously loses balance. This behind-the-scenes content boosts interest in the MV, filmed in Lisbon. BTS will perform live on the 21st at Gwanghwamun Square, featuring new songs including 'SWIM'.
