BTS announces 5th album, world tour after nearly 4 years
What's the story
It's finally happening! K-pop sensation BTS has officially announced the release of their fifth studio album. The new album will be their first in three years and nine months, marking a significant milestone for the group. It also sets the stage for their future musical direction. Here's everything to know.
Album details
BTS's 5th album features 14 tracks
The upcoming album will feature 14 tracks filled with stories that BTS wishes to share with their fans, known as ARMY. According to BTS's agency, BigHit Music, "The members were deeply involved in the creation of the songs, infusing their thoughts and colors into them while musically expressing the emotions and struggles they have experienced along their journey." Pre-orders for the album will open on January 16 at 11:00am KST, with its release scheduled for March 20 at 1:00pm KST.
Tour announcement
BTS to embark on world tour after album release
In addition to the album, BTS will also be going on a world tour. The schedule for this tour will be announced separately on January 14 at midnight KST. This marks the group's first large-scale tour in nearly four years since their last concert series, BTS Permission to Dance on Stage, which ended in April 2022.
Twitter Post
Read the full statement here
another
— BT(grande)Stan⁷ (@btgrandes) January 4, 2026
“Hello.
This is BIGHIT MUSIC.”
notice making me cry
WE MADE IT.#BTSComeback2026 #BTSISBACK pic.twitter.com/1lo4kcn6ql
Military service
BTS members have completed their mandatory military service
The announcement of the new album and world tour comes after all BTS members completed their mandatory military service. Suga started his social service on September 22, 2023, and finished it in June 2025. Jin joined the military in December 2022 and was discharged in June 2024. J-Hope was discharged in October 2024, while RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook were discharged in June 2025.