BTS Reveals Group Photo of All 7 Members in Studio as They Prepare for Comeback in March 2026; Return Process Complicated by Fan Protests and Member-Related Controversies

A photo showing all 7 members of BTS gathered in a studio has been released, confirming that preparations for their comeback in March 2026 are in full swing. The image, shared on social media by RM, J-Hope, V, and SUGA on the 12th, depicts the members posing in front of a mirror in a practice room. BTS has completed their mandatory military service this year and had previously announced a full-group comeback approximately two and a half years after releasing their 2022 studio album “Proof.” The group officially confirmed plans for a spring 2026 comeback and a world tour through a Weverse live broadcast. However, the comeback process is not smooth. On the 5th, the youngest member Jung Kook found himself embroiled in rumors of a romantic relationship with aespa’s Winter. Fans suspected a relationship between the two idols based on their identical dog-face tattoos, matching nail designs, and overlapping fashion items. Both agencies issued statements simply asking for respect without providing specific explanations. As the situation worsened, fans sent protest trucks in front of the headquarters of both agencies. One truck in front of Big Hit Music read, “What the Army-Waiting ARMY Got Was Betrayal,” while another in front of SM Entertainment read, “Remove the tattoos and explain yourselves.” In August, rumors of a relationship between Jimin and actress Song Da-eun resurfaced. Although these rumors originated three years ago, they spread further after Song Da-eun publicly shared CCTV footage of the two meeting in an elevator. Big Hit Music issued a detailed statement for the first time, saying, “They shared positive feelings and stayed in contact in the past, but they are not currently dating.” Shortly after the rumors broke, RM surprised fans by conducting a Weverse live broadcast where he admitted, “I kept thinking about whether it would be better to disband or stop activities.” He added, “The reason we continue is because of our love for each other, as well as our love and respect for our fans.” On the 8th, RM posted an apology message on the Weverse community. He wrote, “I tired many ARMY members with the live broadcast. I received many messages worrying about me. I shouldn’t have done the live broadcast; I was just too overwhelmed. I’m sorry. From now on, I will just focus on making music, practicing choreography, thinking about new content, getting enough sleep, and living like this.”