BTS Returns with Full Lineup After 3 Years; “Arirang” Sells 4 Million Copies in 3 Days

BTS has returned with its full lineup for the first time in three years. Their studio album “Arirang” sold 4 million copies within just 3 days of release, surpassing the 3.37 million copies sold by “Map of the Soul: 7” in 2020. The album debuted at number one on the Hanteo Weekly Album Chart, signaling a strong start.

“Arirang” is the first studio album released after all members completed their mandatory military service. During the three-year hiatus, the members pursued solo activities, and during that time, the K-pop industry underwent rapid changes centered around fourth- and fifth-generation idols. Cultural critic Kim Sung-soo noted the absence of key figures capable of exerting dominant influence in the industry, adding that the K-pop album market had been on a downward trend for two years.

The album achieved outstanding results on global streaming platforms. On Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart, the lead track “Swim” topped the list for three consecutive days, while the track “Body to Body” remained in second place during the same period. Eight tracks from the album—including “Hooligan,” “Fya,” “Normal,” “Like Animals,” “Aliens,” and “2.0”—entered the top 10 of the chart simultaneously.

New records were also set on Apple Music. “Arirang” became the most-streamed K-pop album globally on its first day of release, breaking a record previously held by a pop group for the highest streaming volume on debut day. A special edition of BTS’s live comeback concert was streamed worldwide simultaneously via Netflix, attracting 18.4 million global views.

These achievements are the result of consistent support from their fandom, ARMY. BTS’s return with its full lineup is being viewed as a sign of recovery for the K-pop market.