BTS Makes A Return With ‘ARIRANG’ And Achieves Record-Breaking Success After Their Military Hiatus

After nearly four years of mandatory military service, BTS has returned with their album ARIRANG, setting new records and reaffirming their status on the global stage.

Released on March 20, the album sold 641,000 equivalent units in its first week, marking the highest opening for a group since Billboard began tracking streaming-adjusted sales in 2014.

Pure album sales reached 532,000 copies, surpassing One Direction’s Midnight Memories (2013) for the highest first-week group sales in over a decade. Vinyl collectors contributed 208,000 units. The lead single SWIM also reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100, giving BTS their seventh chart-topping hit in the U.S.

This comeback signifies the end of national service for all seven members. Jin was the first to enlist in December 2022, followed by J-Hope in April 2023, with RM, V, Jimin, Jungkook, and Suga completing their duties by December 2023. Suga, who served via social service after shoulder surgery, was the last to be discharged, returning to civilian life on June 21, 2025.

The album title, ARIRANG, represents BTS’s connection to their homeland. Named after Korea’s iconic traditional folk song, the title embodies themes of sorrow, longing, resilience, and joy—emotions experienced during their hiatus.

Group leader RM discussed the challenges of the comeback, stating, “There are no references. We’re experimenting to rediscover what makes us BTS,” and added, “One who wears the crown bears the crown.”

The reunion was a significant moment for fans who had followed the phased enlistments of the seven members over two years. RM reflected on the milestone, saying, “12 years as BTS has been a blessing. Evolution requires change, even without a blueprint.”

The comeback concert, streamed live on Netflix from Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, attracted approximately 260,000 viewers. BTS’s world tour is set to begin on April 9 in Korea, with the U.S. leg starting on April 25 in Tampa.