BTS releases new album "ARIRANG" after 3 years, showcasing their roots and emotions. Live comeback show to be streamed on Netflix.
March/20/2026 13:06
The new song of BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan), which ARMY (BTS fans) around the world have been waiting for, has finally been released. BTS has returned as a complete group after a long hiatus of about 3 years and 9 months. Their activities, which will rewrite K-POP history, are already attracting attention. Today (20th) at 1 PM, the 5th full album "ARIRANG" was released worldwide simultaneously. This album chose the Korean folk song Arirang as its title, reflecting on the team's roots and identity, as well as the feelings of longing and love experienced during the hiatus across 14 tracks. Even before the album release, fan reactions were already proven by numbers. "ARIRANG" surpassed 4.06 million pre-orders in just one week, setting a new personal record. BIGHIT MUSIC emphasized that "ARIRANG" expresses the identity of a group that started from Korea and the deep feelings of longing and love that occupy their hearts. The unveiled title track "SWIM" is an upbeat alternative pop song that incorporates the will to move forward steadily at one's own pace amidst the waves of life. RM wrote the lyrics, expressing the members' vow that "we seven will continue to walk and swim together" through music. The music video begins with a huge ship sailing across the vast sea. In the video, a woman experiences emotional turmoil and difficult times. At this moment, BTS appears as helpers guiding the ship, checking the path ahead. The seven members quietly support her, each in their own way. Finally, after the woman cuts the necklace she was wearing, she shows a bright smile. It sensibly expresses the excitement and tension of moments of challenge before embarking on a new journey. Additionally, tomorrow (21st) at 8 PM, BTS will hold a comeback performance "BTS COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG" at Gwanghwamun Square, the heart of Seoul. This performance will be streamed live in real-time to 190 countries and regions through Netflix, marking the first instance of a Korean live event being broadcast via Netflix. Directed by Hamish Hamilton, it is expected to deliver overwhelming scenes to global viewers. - BTS finally opens a new chapter as a complete group! After a long-awaited comeback of 3 years and 9 months, "As long as the seven of us and the fans are together, there is nothing to worry about" - What is the reason BTS is holding a comeback performance at Gwanghwamun? Netflix reveals "historic moment".
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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'.
RM of BTS injured his ankle during rehearsal for their comeback performance, leading to a medical recommendation to minimize movement for at least two weeks. Despite this, he will participate in the upcoming 'BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG' as much as possible, although some performance aspects will be limited. BIGHIT MUSIC emphasizes the importance of RM's health and safety.
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Netflix held a media briefing discussing the significance of BTS's comeback live event. They emphasized the partnership with HYBE, the global reach of the event, and the cultural importance of sharing Korean content worldwide. The event aims to connect fans globally and showcase BTS's identity through their new album 'ARIRANG.'
BTS has released their 5th full album "ARIRANG" today, their first new music in 3 years and 9 months. The album features 14 tracks, including the title song "SWIM." They express their journey and emotions, aiming to connect with fans through their new chapter, "BTS 2.0."
Bang Si-hyuk, chairman of HYBE, is the largest stockholder in K-culture with a valuation of 4.8 trillion won. Recent interest in Korean content, fueled by BTS's upcoming concert, has led to a rise in stock values. The total valuation of K-culture stockholders has increased to 6.1 trillion won, with notable figures like Park Jin-young and Yang Hyun-suk following.
Ahead of BTS's comeback concert at Gwanghwamun, Jin and RM shared messages on Weverse, expressing gratitude to fans and urging safety. They highlighted the importance of following safety protocols and respecting staff instructions to ensure a successful event. The concert is set for the 21st, with significant police presence expected due to large crowds.
