BTS announces comeback album, but what is the meaning of its title?

South Korean pop group BTS on Thursday announced the title of their long-awaited fifth studio album, Arirang, marking their first group release after completing mandatory military service. The album is scheduled for global release on March 20, 2026, the group’s agency BigHit Music said.

Pre-orders for Arirang opened on January 16 at 11 am KST. In India, the album will be available from 9.30 am IST on release day.

A title rooted in Korean history

The album takes its name from Arirang, one of Korea’s oldest and most widely recognised folk songs. Believed to be over six centuries old, Arirang exists in thousands of regional variations across the Korean peninsula. It has long been associated with themes of separation, endurance and reunion.

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The song holds official cultural recognition. Arirang was listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2012 following a submission by South Korea, and again in 2014 after a separate submission by North Korea.

Cultural historians often describe Arirang as an unofficial national anthem. The song is closely linked to the concept of han, a Korean term that broadly captures collective sorrow, resilience and hope shaped by historical hardship, including colonial rule, war and national division.

Why the title matters for BTS?

BigHit Music has not released a detailed concept note for the album. However, the choice of title has drawn attention because it coincides with BTS’ return as a full group after a period of nearly four years.

All seven members completed their military service obligations between 2023 and 2025. Arirang will be their first studio album together since 2022.

Scholars have noted that the earliest written reference to the word Arirang appears in a 1756 manuscript from Jeongseon in present-day Gangwon Province. Linguists suggest the term loosely translates to “my beloved one,” a reading that reflects ideas of longing and reunion.

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Release details and formats

According to BigHit Music, Arirang will be released in multiple formats, including standard physical editions, special collector’s versions, a Weverse Albums edition and a limited red vinyl pressing. US retailer Target will carry exclusive pre-order editions.

The album announcement follows confirmation of BTS’ upcoming world tour, scheduled to begin in South Korea in April 2026. The tour is expected to run through 2027, with more than 70 shows planned across Asia, Europe, North America, South America and Australia.