BTS Launching New Album and World Tour

Official Announcement | Published: Jan 04, 2026 2:30 PM EST

(fcc) BTS have announced their return with their fifth full-length album, the most-anticipated album of the year, set for release on March 20 at midnight ET. Alongside the album, the band will embark on a long-awaited world tour in support of the album.

The upcoming album reflects the culmination of BTS's journey to date and defines the group on their own terms. The members devoted themselves to the album's creation in the second half of 2025. Comprising a total of 14 tracks, the album is driven by each member's honest introspection as they collectively shaped its direction by weaving their individual perspectives into the music.

Alongside the album release, the band announced their plan for the world tour, signaling BTS' return to the global stage. Details of the world tour, including dates and venues, will be announced on January 14 at midnight KST. This marks their first large-scale tour in approximately four years since 'BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE,' which concluded in Las Vegas in April 2022. The tour is anticipated to be a defining cultural moment, celebrating a reunion set to be etched in pop culture history.

Ahead of the announcement, BTS sent heartfelt, handwritten letters to ARMY (BTS' official fandom) worldwide. The handwritten letters served as the first direct way BTS shared news of their comeback with ARMY worldwide. Penned by each member and delivered directly to fans' homes, the letters expressed gratitude to those who have stood by the band over the years. The letters were a gift for ARMY who have maintained their membership on the global superfan platform Weverse. Members who do not receive the physical letter will be able to receive the same letter on Weverse at the end of January.

Additionally, BTS reset their official Instagram account completely at midnight on January 1. This move immediately sparked intense curiosity and speculation among fans and media worldwide. Social media platforms were quickly flooded with reactions and hashtags related to BTS trending in multiple countries within hours.

Grounded in years built together with fans worldwide, this comeback marks a defining new era for BTS. With unparalleled anticipation surrounding the release, the album is already being hailed as the comeback of the decade, marking a defining moment in pop culture.

As a part of their comeback promotion, BTS has launched a new official website (2026bts.com). Further details on the upcoming album and the world tour will be unveiled through the website.