All Seven Members Reunite
After completing mandatory military service, all seven BTS members—RM, Jin, Suga, J‑Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—reunited in a July 1 Weverse livestream that attracted over 7.3 million live viewers. This marked their first full-group appearance since their 2022 hiatus.
New Album Set for Spring 2026
BTS confirmed they’ll start working on a new group album in the U.S. starting in July, aiming for a spring 2026 release. The album will be their first full studio project since 2020’s Be and intends to reflect each member’s personal growth over the past years.
Global World Tour to Follow
Alongside the upcoming album, BTS announced a 2026 world tour, their first full-scale tour since Permission to Dance on Stage in 2022. They plan to visit fans worldwide, marking a major comeback to live performances.
Live Album Drops Ahead of Reunion
To bridge the gap, BTS will release their first-ever live album, Permission to Dance on Stage – Live, featuring 22 songs from concerts in Seoul, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. It’s due out July 18, 2025.
Solo Projects Keep Momentum
The members continued to engage fans during their group hiatus. Jin released his solo EP Echo in May and launched the RunSeokjin Ep. Tour. J‑Hope concluded his Hope on the Stage tour in June. These efforts kept excitement high leading into the group’s return.
Fan Reaction and Expectations
ARMY (BTS’s fandom) erupted with joy at seeing the septet back and have eagerly taken to social media, expressing relief and excitement for both new music and the world tour. The livestream’s massive viewership underscored the group’s enduring global influence.
What to Watch Next
- July: BTS begins recording U.S.-based sessions for new album.
- July 18: Permission to Dance on Stage – Live drops.
- 2026: Full album release and world tour dates to be announced.
Final Take
BTS’s return represents a significant moment in K-pop history. After fulfilling their duty to serve, the global superstars are set to reclaim the stage—together—for a new chapter of music and live performance. Their blend of heartfelt storytelling and dynamic showmanship promises to make their 2026 comeback both profound and unforgettable.
