After years of waiting, guessing, and counting down days, the moment ARMY hoped for has finally arrived. BTS are officially returning as a full group with BTS The 5th Album, along with a brand-new world
tour. The announcement dropped on January 4 and instantly took over fan timelines across the world. This is not just another comeback. It marks BTS stepping back together after a long pause shaped by solo journeys and mandatory military service. For fans, it feels like a long-held breath finally being released. A new chapter begins The announcement came from BIGHIT MUSIC, confirming that BTS The 5th Album will be released on March 20, 2026, at 1 pm KST. Pre-orders will begin on January 16 at 11 am KST. The album will feature 14 tracks and will be BTS’s first group album in three years and nine months. Details shared via Weverse made one thing clear. This album is deeply personal. The label stated that all seven members were closely involved in shaping the music, drawing from their own thoughts, emotions, and experiences during their time apart. BIGHIT described the album as “the music most true to BTS”, positioning it as a message directly meant for ARMY who stayed through every phase.
[공지] BTS (방탄소년단) 정규 5집 발매 및 월드투어 개최 안내 (+ENG/JPN/CHN/ESP)
— BTS_official (@bts_bighit) January 4, 2026
🔗 https://t.co/wgQbJBuWDe#BTS #방탄소년단 pic.twitter.com/7g9vRXpiQC
What makes this album different
Since their last group release, BTS have lived very different lives. Each member explored solo music, personal creativity, and new challenges while completing military service. Those years away from group promotions have now become part of the story this album tells. The upcoming release is being seen as a reset rather than a continuation.
The world tour
Along with the album news came confirmation that fans have been waiting for just as eagerly. BTS are going on a world tour. BIGHIT MUSIC confirmed that the tour will follow the album release, with the full schedule set to be revealed on January 14 at 12 am KST. While cities and dates are still under wraps, the announcement alone was enough to send fans into excitement. For many, this will be the first time seeing all seven members perform together on stage since before enlistments began.
