The wait is over – BTS are finally back! After years of individual activities and military enlistments, all seven members of BTS have officially completed their mandatory military service. The iconic K-pop group is now preparing for a much-anticipated comeback, with a new full-group album scheduled for release in spring 2026 and a global world tour to follow. For ARMYs around the world, this marks the beginning of a new era.

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On July 1, fans were treated to an emotional surprise: all seven members appeared together in a live broadcast on their fan platform, Weverse. It was their first full-group live since September 2022, and the energy was electric. RM led the announcement, revealing that BTS plans to begin preparing for a group album starting this July, aiming for a spring 2026 comeback.

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He also hinted at a massive world tour: “We’ll be traveling all around the world, so please look forward to it,” he said, adding that they’ll continue communicating with fans through livestreams and social media. The members expressed how happy they were to be reunited, with Jungkook saying they’re going “back to basics,” and Jimin promising to work hard so fans won’t have to wait too long. And while the full comeback is set for next year, there’s a growing expectation in the industry that BTS could resume official activities before then. Fans and insiders alike are speculating about a possible single release or fan event as early as late 2025, given the momentum and excitement already building.

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BTS’s last group release was “Proof”, an anthology album dropped in June 2022. It served as a reflection on their career up to that point and a temporary farewell before military enlistments began. Their final full-group performance was the “Yet to Come” concert in Busan in October 2022, held in support of Busan’s World Expo bid. The last world tour wrapped up even earlier, in April 2022, in Las Vegas.

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Another exciting news is that BTS is set to drop their live concert album, PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LIVE, on July 18 at 13:00 KST. Featuring 22 electrifying tracks recorded during their “Permission to Dance On Stage” tour – spanning iconic venues in Seoul, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas – the album encapsulates the raw energy of the tour’s performances. Just recently, the group released two visually stunning sets of concept photos, offering a powerful blend of gritty and futuristic aesthetics. In the “Contact” version, BTS members are captured in arresting scenes – riding in a police van or standing behind a prison-style contact booth. On the flip side, the “Connect” photos cast the members in sleek, minimalist attire. The concept photos heighten anticipation for the album, which promises not only unforgettable live performances but also a striking visual journey that previews BTS’s creative revival.

What the Members Have Been Up To

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Since completing his military service, RM has deepened his involvement in the art world. He was appointed ambassador for Samsung’s Art TV, showcasing his passion for contemporary visual culture. Earlier this year, RM traveled to the Swiss countryside and actively participated in Art Basel, one of the most prestigious international art fairs. Back home in Korea, he continues to share his visits to museums and galleries with fans, highlighting his role as a dedicated museum patron. RM is also developing plans for rkive, a personal gallery café intended to exhibit his carefully curated art collection, blending his love for music and art into a unique space.

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Jin has been busy engaging fans with his creative projects. He released his second solo EP, Echo, receiving praise for his vocal growth and emotional delivery. Alongside this, Jin embarked on his RunSeokjin Ep. Tour, performing in various cities worldwide and connecting closely with his global fanbase. In addition, he launched a variety show titled Run Jin, where fans get to enjoy his playful side and everyday moments, highlighting his warmth and humor off-stage.

© Yonhap News/Severance Hospital

Though keeping a relatively low public profile, Suga’s impact has been significant behind the scenes. Between March and June, he personally volunteered on weekends, offering music therapy sessions for children on the autism spectrum, playing guitar and leading interactive activities. Beyond his time volunteering, Suga made a generous donation of ₩5 billion (approximately $3.6 million) to support related charitable causes, further cementing his commitment to social contribution.

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J-Hope has maintained an active schedule since his discharge. He launched his world tour, Hope on the Stage, delighting fans with his dynamic performances and signature energetic dance. Known for his generous spirit, J-Hope donated ₩100 million (about $72,000) to families affected by the Jeju Air crash in January and another ₩100 million for wildfire relief efforts in March. In July 2025, he made a striking solo stage return at PSY’s Summer Swag concert, reminding fans of his vibrant artistry and stage presence.

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Jimin has been busy along with Jungkook filming Season 2 of the travel and variety show “Are You Sure?!” across scenic locations in Switzerland and Vietnam. This project highlights their charismatic presence and deepens their connection with fans through engaging travel experiences while preparing for full-group BTS activities post-military.

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V has drawn attention for his impressive physical transformation, showing a new level of fitness and style that fans widely admire. He keeps fans updated through his Instagram, sharing candid life moments and engaging with the public. He continues to build strong chemistry with fellow Korean stars such as Song Kang, Park Bo Gum, Suzy, and Song Hueng Min, strengthening his position as a multifaceted artist and influencer.

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Like Jimin, Jungkook is featured in the second season of Are You Sure?!, traveling through Switzerland and Vietnam. The series is expected to highlight their introspective side and evolving artistry, giving fans rare access to their personal journey as the group prepares for their comeback.

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With all seven members reunited and recharged, BTS is ready to take the world by storm once again. Their upcoming album and world tour promise not just a return, but a reinvention. As they step into this next chapter, fans across the globe are counting down the days until spring 2026 – and watching closely for any surprises before then. One thing’s for sure: BTS is back, and the best is yet to come.