BTS draws global attention with ‘Arirang’

Jan 19, 2026, 07:53 am

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Global K-pop group BTS. / BigHit Music

Global K-pop sensation BTS is drawing international media attention after announcing Arirang as the title of its upcoming album, set for release on March 20.

According to foreign outlets including Forbes, BTS has long placed Korean identity at the center of its music. The album title Arirang, they said, symbolizes the group’s return to its roots following a hiatus and represents “a homecoming as well as a continuation of the group’s mission to introduce Korean culture to the world.”

BTS will launch a new large-scale world tour beginning April 9 at Goyang Sports Complex, marking its first major tour alongside the new release.

U.S. music outlet Consequence highlighted that Arirang is the name of one of Korea’s most beloved folk songs, emphasizing the emotional depth embedded in the traditional melody. The outlet noted that the song’s lyrics center on themes of separation, longing, and hope for reunion.

“These sentiments make Arirang an especially fitting title for a BTS album arriving nearly four years after their last full release,” Consequence said.

BTS revealed the album title on its fan platform Weverse a day earlier. Arirang explores themes of identity, longing, and profound love, and will feature a total of 14 tracks, according to the group’s agency BigHit Music.

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