ARMYs, the countdown to BTS’ long-awaited comeback just took a major step forward. As anticipation builds around the group’s return, BTS have been unveiling fresh updates almost daily. The latest reveal
has sent the fandom into full investigative mode, with BigHit Music dropping the first official cover of the group’s fifth studio album, ARIRANG, on January 19.
Inside BTS’ ARIRANG Album Cover
The newly unveiled cover opts for striking minimalism. Rendered in a textured greyscale palette, it features the album title “ARIRANG” stamped boldly in uppercase letters, instantly setting a serious, cinematic tone. At first glance, the design appears simple, but a closer look reveals layered symbolism.
ARIRANG BY BTS NEW ALBUM COVER pic.twitter.com/OsP0X0thhm
— jin files (@seokjinfile) January 18, 2026
Seven silhouettes, dressed in tuxedos, stand against the muted background. Their faces remain hidden, but fans were quick to decode the arrangement. From left to right, the back row silhouettes appear to be Jimin, j-hope, SUGA, and V, while the front row is believed to feature Jungkook, RM, and Jin.
Hidden Voice Messages from BTS Members
The album cover holds more than just visuals. Clicking on each silhouette unlocks a personal voice message from the respective member, turning the cover into an interactive experience and adding an emotional layer to the reveal.
Jimin confirmed the comeback date, saying, “Hi! BTS will be back on 20 March with the 5th album, Arirang.”
OMG If we touch the members' faces, a voice message will play.. 😭😭
(**All members voice messages with english translation)#BTS_ARIRANG pic.twitter.com/lAWsXT0EKo
— BTS Updates, News & Charts ⁷ (@_BTSMoments_) January 18, 2026
Jungkook shared a glimpse into the group’s creative process, reflecting, “We shared our feelings with each other as we completed the album, including how much we missed you, how much we value you, and how excited we are about the future.”
Speaking about the album’s identity, j-hope explained, “While working on this album, we thought about what kind of music and stories would be the most BTS-like.”
RM hinted at the record’s long-term impact, saying, “We hope ARIRANG of BTS will be an album that transcends time and generations and sticks with you for a long, long time.”
SUGA revealed the scope of the project, sharing, “After many conversations, we made a 14-track album that captures the stories of seven of us.”
Jin thanked fans for their unwavering support, adding, “Thanks for always being by our side. What is your ARIRANG?”
V underlined the significance of the release, saying, “This is our full-group album as a group in 3 years and 9 months. We spent a lot of time thinking about the group’s roots and identity.”
BTS’ Comeback Details: Release Date and Formats
BigHit Music had earlier confirmed on January 16 that ARIRANG will be BTS’ fifth full-length album, scheduled for release on March 20 at 1 PM KST. Pre-orders opened the same day at 11 AM KST.
The album will be released across multiple formats, including Rooted in Korea Ver., Rooted in Music Ver., Living Legend Ver., Weverse Album Ver., a seven-member version, and standard vinyl editions. With 14 tracks, ARIRANG is shaping up to be one of BTS’ most ambitious physical releases to date.
The group also shared a video message on Apple Music, opening with their iconic greeting, “We are BTS.” RM added, “We are so excited to share our new album Arirang,” as the members asked fans to continue supporting them.
BTS World Tour Announcement
Adding to the excitement, BTS have also announced their 2026 world tour, marking their return to the global stage after nearly four years. Kicking off in April, the tour will span 34 regions across five continents, featuring 79 shows between 2026 and 2027. The concerts will reportedly include an immersive 360-degree stage setup, making it one of the biggest tours of the group’s career.
With ARIRANG, BTS are not just returning with new music, but reintroducing their identity as a full group, reminding fans why their bond with ARMY continues to transcend time, distance, and generations.
