
BTS, the globally renowned K-pop group, is set to make their highly anticipated return in the spring of 2026 with a brand-new album and a global tour. The announcement was made by all seven members—Jin, RM, V, Jimin, J-Hope, Jung Kook, and Suga—during a live broadcast on Weverse, their fan communication platform, marking their first group livestream since September 2022.

I. BTS Announces Comeback
1. New Album Slated for Spring 2026
In their statement, the band revealed that they will begin collaborating closely starting this July to produce new music. They emphasized that the upcoming album will represent the collective input of each member and be approached with the same passion and mindset they had during their debut.
2. Recording to Begin in the U.S.
According to a press release from Hybe, BTS will travel to the United States this month to commence production on their upcoming music project.
II. Return After Hiatus
1. First Album Since “Proof”
This 2026 release will be their first group album since “Proof,” the anthology album released in 2022. Prior to that, their last full studio album, “Be,” was released in 2020, along with their Japanese compilation “BTS, the Best” in 2021.
2. World Tour Confirmed
Alongside the album, BTS also announced plans for a worldwide tour—their first in nearly four years—bringing excitement to fans globally as the group regroups following their military duties.
III. Completion of Military Service
1. Members Fulfill National Duty
All seven members have now completed or are completing South Korea’s mandatory military service. Jin was the first to be discharged in June 2024, followed by J-Hope in October. Suga completed his alternative duty as a social service agent.
2. Military Exemptions and Regulations
While South Korea’s conscription law offers exemptions for certain individuals in sports or classical arts, K-pop idols are not included. However, a 2020 revision to the Military Service Act allowed BTS members to defer enlistment until age 30, enabling the group to extend their group activities before their hiatus.
Conclusion
The announcement of BTS’s 2026 return with a new album and world tour marks the end of their hiatus and signals a powerful comeback. With their military obligations behind them and new music in the works, the septet is ready to reclaim their global stage and reconnect with fans worldwide.













