BTS announces 5th album and world tour, marking first full-group comeback in nearly four years

As 2026 begins, the wait for ARMY is finally over. BTS is set to make its long-awaited full-group comeback with the announcement of BTS The 5th Album. On January 4, BIGHIT MUSIC shared the news via WeVerse, confirming both a new album and an upcoming world tour.

This release marks BTS’s first studio album as a complete group in three years and nine months, following the members’ mandatory military service.

Also Read: K-Pop’s comeback era begins in 2026: From BTS to BLACKPINK

A Deeply Personal Album

According to BIGHIT MUSIC’s official statement, the fifth album holds special significance for the group. The members were deeply involved in creating the music, infusing their own thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences into the songs. The album reflects the struggles, growth, and reflections BTS has gone through during their hiatus, while also signalling the musical direction they will take moving forward.

14 Tracks for ARMY

The album will feature 14 tracks, described as being filled with honest stories BTS wants to share with ARMY, who have patiently waited for their reunion. The agency called the album a “heartfelt way of saying thank you” to fans who continued to support the group throughout their absence. The music is said to be the most authentic representation of BTS yet.

World Tour to Follow Album Release

In addition to the album, BTS will embark on a world tour following the release. While dates and locations have not yet been revealed, BIGHIT MUSIC confirmed that the full tour schedule will be announced separately on January 14 at 12 am KST. The tour will mark BTS’s return to global stages as a complete group.

Release and Pre-Order Details

Fans can mark their calendars, as the official dates have been confirmed:

Pre-order opens: January 16, 2026, at 11 am KST

Album release: March 20, 2026, at 1 pm KST

Also Read: BTS concert in India? Kim Taehyung’s message ignites fresh hope among Indian ARMYs

Reunion After Military Service

The comeback follows the completion of military service by all seven members. Jin was discharged in June 2025, J-Hope in October 2024, Suga completed his service in June 2025, and RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook were discharged last week. Their recent reunion at J-Hope’s Seoul concert further fuelled excitement.

With new music and a world tour ahead, BTS’s return signals a powerful new chapter — one ARMY around the world has been waiting years to witness.