BTS has made a remarkable return to the music industry with their new album, ARIRANG, following a period of mandatory military service that saw the group face emotional challenges. In a heartfelt Weverse livestream held on May 28, 2026, RM, the group’s leader, candidly shared the mental struggles they encountered prior to coming together to create the album.
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Following the discharge of Jin from military service in June 2024, RM revealed that the band’s emotional state was not at its best. He explained, “When Jin-hyung was discharged from the military, everyone was in a bad mental state.” This vulnerability culminated in a poignant dinner at Jimin’s home, where the bandmates shed tears and shared deep conversations. RM expressed a newfound determination to work harder in order to keep the group unified.
The atmosphere during that intimate gathering reflected the weight of their experiences, as the members discussed their feelings and the hurdles they had faced during their time apart. RM acknowledged the significant anticipation from fans for new music, stating, “After making the album, this wait for those who’ve been waiting, I wanted to pay back for that.” Their dedication to their supporters played an essential role in reigniting their collective spirit.
BTS’s long-awaited album, ARIRANG, released on March 20, 2026, quickly achieved success, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The lead single, “SWIM,” also made waves by arriving atop the Billboard Hot 100, marking a triumphant return for the group after their hiatus. Their perseverance through personal and collective challenges resonates with their global fan base, known as ARMY.
The title of the album reflects a significant cultural heritage, as RM explained during a recent interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe. He articulated the meaning behind “Arirang,” an ancient Korean folk song that carries themes of longing and nostalgia. RM noted that the lyrics weave together various sentiments of personal connections — whether to home, love, family, or friendship. He expressed how this historical piece resonates deeply, particularly in the context of the band members’ shared experiences during their military service.
RM elaborated, “In the military, we thought about missing the times and the past, and we naturally thought about where we came from.” This deep reflection on their roots and values solidified their purpose: to come together as a team and unite under a common goal. He pointed out, “If BTS should go on, what word could make us into one, like a group?” Their collective introspection resulted in a powerful connection to their shared identity and mission as artists.
BTS’s commitment to honouring their origins illustrates their pride in their Korean heritage. RM recognised the universality of the emotions encapsulated in the song, suggesting that nostalgia is a feeling shared by many around the world. He stated, “Great art mostly brings a personal thing into a universal thing,” highlighting their intention to bring contemporary relevance to traditional sentiments through their music.
Currently, BTS is in the midst of their ARIRANG World Tour, which is set to continue through March 2027. This tour not only supports their latest album but also serves as a means of reconnecting with their fans after a significant time apart. The anticipation surrounding the tour underscores the group’s enduring influence and the unwavering support from their dedicated fan base, as they celebrate both their triumphant comeback and the rich cultural narratives that shape their artistry.
As the members navigate this new chapter, the renewed sense of unity within BTS strengthens their resolve to create music that resonates with fans while reflecting their personal journeys. In the face of adversity, they have emerged not only as a group but as a testament to resilience, creativity, and a shared love for their craft. The success of ARIRANG is undoubtedly a reflection of their hard work and a promising indication of what lies ahead for one of the world’s most beloved musical acts.