Global sensation BTS is back with their new album, “Arirang,” marking their first group release since “Proof” in June 2022 and their first project after all members completed their mandatory military service.
Titled after the iconic Korean folk song often considered Korea’s unofficial national anthem, “Arirang” encapsulates BTS’s identity as a group rooted in Korea, expressing “the longing and deep love that lie within their hearts,” according to their agency, BigHit Music. The album drops at 1 p.m.
The “Arirang” album features 14 tracks, including “Swim,” “Body to Body,” “Hooligan,” “Aliens,” “Fya,” and “2.0”.
The title track, “Swim,” is an upbeat alternative pop anthem about navigating life’s challenges, with lyrics co-written by BTS leader RM. “Body to Body” celebrates the electrifying connection of performing for their devoted ARMY, while “Hooligan” offers a nostalgic look back at BTS’s incredible journey and “2.0” provides an intimate reflection of the seven members’ lives in the present moment, as described by BigHit Music.
The seven members collaborated on songwriting for the album during sessions held in Los Angeles last summer, with contributions from renowned producers like Diplo, Ryan Tedder, and El Guincho.
To celebrate their highly anticipated comeback, BTS will host a special live performance at Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul this Saturday. The spectacular show, expected to draw an audience of 260,000 fans and visitors, will be streamed live globally on Netflix.
Following the Seoul performance, BTS will head to the United States next week. They are scheduled to perform at “Spotify x BTS: Swimside” in New York on Monday and make appearances on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on March 25 and 26.
