Global K-pop phenomenon BTS has officially announced their return, thrilling fans worldwide with plans for a new album and an expansive world tour set for spring 2026. This marks the group’s first full-scale project together since 2020, following a hiatus due to South Korea’s mandatory military service requirements.
The announcement came during a 30-minute livestream on July 1, 2025, via the fan platform Weverse, where all seven members—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook—appeared together for the first time in nearly two years. The livestream attracted over 7.3 million real-time viewers, underscoring the group’s enduring global appeal.
During the broadcast, BTS revealed that they would begin working on new music in the United States starting in July 2025. The upcoming album, slated for release in spring 2026, will be their first full-length group album since 2020’s “Be.” The members emphasized that the new project would reflect each individual’s thoughts and ideas, signaling a collaborative and introspective approach to their music.
In addition to the album, BTS confirmed plans for a world tour commencing in 2026. While specific dates and locations have yet to be announced, the tour is expected to mark their first global concert series since the “Permission to Dance On Stage” tour concluded in 2021. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see the group perform live once again.
The group’s hiatus began in 2022 as members fulfilled their mandatory military service obligations. Jin was the first to enlist in December 2022, followed by J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook in 2023. Suga, the last to complete his service, was discharged in June 2025. During this period, several members pursued solo projects, including J-Hope’s “Hope on the Stage” tour and Jin’s solo EP “Echo.”
The announcement of BTS’s return has had an immediate impact on the music industry and fan communities. Streaming of their previous hits has surged, and merchandise sales have spiked as fans, known collectively as ARMY, celebrate the news. Industry analysts predict that BTS’s comeback will significantly influence global music charts and concert ticket sales in the coming months.
Beyond their musical achievements, BTS has been recognized for their cultural impact, including addressing the United Nations General Assembly and partnering with UNICEF on the “Love Myself” anti-violence campaign. Their return is anticipated to reinvigorate the K-pop industry and further solidify their status as global cultural icons.
As BTS embarks on this new chapter, fans worldwide await further details about the upcoming album and tour, eager to support the group that has become a defining force in contemporary music.
