BTS’ new album ARIRANG arrives with 14 tracks and lead single SWIM By Beatriz
3 min read
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BTS released the album “ARIRANG” this Friday (20), marking the group’s return after more than three years of hiatus. The fifth Korean studio album arrives with 14 tracks, including the lead single “SWIM”, and represents the band’s first full production since the members completed their mandatory military service in Coreia of Sul. The work reflects the group’s individual and collective experiences, with influences ranging from Korean cultural roots to modern sound experiments. The launch took place at 1am (Brasília time), equivalent to 1pm KST, and is now available on global streaming platforms.
The hiatus began in 2022, when RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and The members were gradually released, with the last in June 2025, and the group resumed studio activities shortly thereafter. Recording took place between July and November 2025, resulting in a project that explores themes of identity, connection and personal journey.
The choice of the title “ARIRANG” refers to the traditional Korean folk song, a symbol of emotions such as longing, union and reunion. The album embodies this essence, mixing elements that represent BTS’s trajectory of more than a decade since their debut in 2013.
Tracklist and production details
The album contains 14 tracks, with “SWIM” as the main title. The list includes “Body to Body”, “Hooligan”, “Aliens”, “FYA”, “2.0”, “No. 29” (interlude), “Merry Go Round”, “NORMAL”, “Like Animals”, “they don’t know ’bout us”, “One The total duration is about 41 minutes, with tracks in Korean and English.
The production involved direct contributions from the members, who brought influences from their solo projects released during the hiatus. The sound combines varied genres, from danceable rhythms to reflective ballads, highlighting the group’s artistic evolution.
The launch was accompanied by an animated concept trailer and recently revealed official covers. Além In addition, a celebratory live performance took place the next day on March 21, broadcast exclusively on Netflix in Korean local time (8 p.m. KST).
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Fan-inspired products and merchandising
The return boosted a line of licensed products inspired by BTS, available in official stores and partner platforms. Itens as promotional posters from previous eras, such as the one for “Butter”, remain popular among collectors. Moletom hoodie highlights member names in colorful, vibrant design, available in multiple colors. Fans praise the comfort and quality of the fabric. Pacotes of stickers bring together cute images of the members, waterproof and non-toxic, ideal for decoration or creative use, including by younger fans.
Water- and scratch-resistant toiletry bags offer ample space for personal items, with a themed design that reflects the group’s style. Camisetas with the term “Bangtan” centered and members’ names around it mixes nicknames, stage and real names in bright colors.
The book “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” has gained new relevance, with never-before-seen photos, track lists and QR codes for visual content. Cartões collectibles
Initial repercussion and expectations
Fans around the world celebrate the return with intense streams and radio requests. Initial reception points to a cohesive album that unites individual voices into a collective narrative.
The group plans a world tour starting in April 2026, with dates in several regions. Ingressos for initial stages sold out quickly in some markets.
Availability in digital and physical formats, including special versions, facilitates global access. Pre-orders started in January and continued until the day before launch.
The album already appears on official playlists on platforms such as Apple Music, with additions in essential and chill categories.
Promotions and additional content
Trailers and teasers released in previous weeks generated high expectations. Big Hit Music coordinated promotions in cities such as Seul, Nova York, Londres and Los Angeles.
Visual content includes promotional photos and animations that connect the album’s concept to its cultural roots.
Fans share unboxings and first impressions on social media, highlighting the production quality and the emotion of the reunion.
The launch marks a new chapter for BTS, with a focus on global connection and artistic evolution.
