K-pop group BTS announced their return with a new album and world tour planned for 2026, ending a hiatus that began when members enlisted for South Korea’s mandatory military service in 2022.
The seven-member group revealed during a Tuesday livestream on fan platform Weverse that they will travel to the United States this month to begin album preparations. The comeback would mark their first group release since 2022’s “Proof” album, which sold 3.5 million copies domestically.
HYBE’s stock climbed 4% this week to 296,000 won ($216.26) as investors anticipated the announcement, with shares trading near their 52-week high. The entertainment company’s market capitalization has recovered from the 25% plunge that followed BTS’s initial hiatus announcement in June 2022.
The livestream attracted over seven million views, underscoring the group’s sustained popularity despite their absence from group activities. Before their military service, BTS generated more than 5.5 trillion won ($4 billion) in yearly economic impact, accounting for roughly 0.2% of South Korea’s GDP.
However, questions remain about whether the group can recapture their pre-hiatus momentum in an increasingly competitive K-pop landscape. Their spring 2026 timeline suggests a cautious approach to re-entering the market, giving competitors additional time to solidify positions.
The group completed their service obligations last month when member Suga was discharged on June 21.
