BTS Targets March 2026 for First Group Album Since Military Hiatus
K-pop giants BTS are eyeing March 2026 for their highly anticipated comeback, marking nearly four years since their last group release, according to industry sources.
A HYBE official confirmed to The Korea Herald that "BTS' comeback date is set for March next year," as the final member prepares to complete mandatory service. Suga will finish his duties as a public service worker on June 21, 2025, ending the group's 18-month military hiatus.
Six members have already been discharged: Jin and J-Hope in 2024, followed by RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook in June 2025. Group leader RM expressed his eagerness to "make music and return to the stage quickly" following his discharge.
Industry sources suggest the comeback could happen alongside labelmate Tomorrow X Together, with one insider noting, "It could be BTS first, then TXT - or the other way around". ENHYPEN reportedly moved their planned March comeback to January to avoid overlap with BTS.
The March timeframe allows for adequate preparation. HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang previously stated the members would need "time for preparation and creative work" post-discharge.
The timeline accommodates Jin's extensive solo commitments. His "#RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR" runs from June 28-August 10, 2025, covering 18 shows across nine cities in Korea, Japan, the US, and Europe.
The March 2026 comeback would be BTS's first full-group release since their anthology album "Proof" in June 2022. The group announced their hiatus in June 2022 to pursue solo projects and fulfill military obligations.
When contacted about the reports, BIGHIT MUSIC responded that "nothing has yet been decided about [BTS's] comeback schedule", though multiple industry sources confirm internal discussions are ongoing.
The comeback represents one of the most anticipated returns in K-pop history, with the global fanbase eagerly awaiting the septet's reunion after years of solo activities and military service.
