The highly anticipated full-group return of global sensation BTS could potentially be postponed until 2026, according to recent statements from Hybe Corporation, the entertainment company behind the K-pop superstars. This information came to light following a comment made by Hybe’s Chief Financial Officer during a recent conference call, during which he indicated that “discussions regarding BTS activities are being planned for 2026.”
BTS, consisting of seven members, has been on a temporary hiatus from group activities due to South Korea’s mandatory military service obligations. While members Jin and J-Hope have already completed their service as of June and October, respectively, the remaining members—RM, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—are expected to complete their service by mid-2025.
Previously, Big Hit Music, a subsidiary of Hybe, announced that BTS would ideally reconvene as a complete group in 2025, following the members’ individual military commitments. The recent update has generated considerable attention from fans, as it suggests that the timeline for a complete return might be extended by another year.
The members renewed their contracts with Big Hit Music last year, reaffirming their commitment to the label and expressing a mutual desire to continue their journey as BTS. Hybe’s recent remarks, however, point to the possibility that logistical and strategic planning for the group’s activities may necessitate a slight delay.
The prospect of a 2026 comeback brings a mix of anticipation and patience from fans worldwide, who have consistently supported BTS throughout their individual projects and solo ventures. In the meantime, each member has pursued solo activities, releasing individual music and collaborating with artists both within and outside of South Korea. These solo projects have allowed BTS to explore new musical directions, but the desire for a full-group return remains strong among their fanbase.
Hybe’s statement underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring that BTS’s return as a full group is meticulously planned and executed. The potential delay until 2026 also hints at Hybe’s intent to maximize the impact of the band’s comeback, positioning it as a significant event in the music industry.
Despite the possible extended timeline, BTS’s influence in the global music scene has not waned. Their solo works have continued to garner chart-topping success and have kept the band’s momentum alive even as they fulfill their national duties. For fans and industry insiders alike, the promise of a future BTS comeback remains one of the most anticipated events in the music world.
Whether in 2025 or 2026, the reunion of BTS as a seven-member ensemble is expected to be a monumental occasion, marking the continuation of a historic career that has reshaped the landscape of modern music.
Sayart / Sharon Jung, guhuijeong784@gmail.com
