BTS Claims Top Spots on Billboard’s Album and Single Charts with New Release

BTS achieved simultaneous number one positions on Billboard’s main album chart, the Billboard 200, and its single chart, the Hot 100, with their new album “Arirang,” released after 3 years and 9 months. The title track “SWIM” reached the summit of the Hot 100, while a total of 13 tracks from the album made it onto various charts, setting a new record for the group. The album sold 641,000 copies in its first week.

“Arirang,” the first album released by all seven members after completing their military service, features lyrics blended in Korean and English. The album emphasizes Korea’s cultural roots throughout, with its opening track being a stage-scale reinterpretation of the Korean folk song “Arirang.” This music, which depicts the clash between tradition and modernity, aims to introduce Korean culture to a global audience.

The members shared the significance of this comeback through live broadcasts. RM, the Leader, expressed gratitude by saying, “We are back after 4 years, and thanks to the support of ARMY and many others, we managed to top Billboard charts.” Jimin said, “This is a precious album we prepared hard, and I’m thankful for everyone listening to it.” V said about the title track “SWIM,” “People heard it several times and told me they understood why it was chosen as the title track.” RM also mentioned, “I got up in the early morning just to check it,” highlighting his sense of gratitude.

The 4-year wait of BTS’s global fandom, ARMY, came to an end with this comeback. The Weverse live broadcast featuring all members attracted over 3 million viewers by the time it concluded. Major Korean newspapers published special editions and feature articles, with some even dedicating entire pages to the title track’s lyrics and cheering methods. International media outlets also covered this return with special reports.

BTS will begin their world tour starting on the 9th. The members have heightened fans’ excitement by saying, “We are practicing for concerts every day.”