BTS: Why 'ARIRANG' Was Worth the Wait.
Written by: Cavina Lee
Fashion & Trending Culture Contributor
When you hear the word kpop, what pops into your mind? if you’re in the space, you’re probably thinking blackpink, seventeen, ateez, le sserafim, light sticks, etc. and if you’re not in the space, you probably think koreans, fan girls, money being blown. All true but one thing is for sure - no matter who you are, you think BTS.
Almost everyone I know has at least heard of BTS. Not only do they know the group, but they know the massive fanbase behind them known as “army”. Army’s are known to ride or die for BTS, but why exactly is that the case? Although BTS came about through the then small company bighit, their discography and lyrics really brought their army together.
For as long as i’ve listened to BTS, their songs primarily discuss topics such as mental health, societal pressures, and self reflection; but the biggest driving force to their work is the idea and execution of loving yourself. Because so many people relate to this and love the positivity BTS brings to the world, it’s no wonder that they’re currently the face of kpop (in my opinion - especially in the US).
If you are army, you know that BTS going on hiatus for their military leave in 2022 really killed us. Of course, they went to go do their mandatory military service but they also pursued solo projects which for many people is a sign that the group may be on the rocks. Even though they ensured us it was not permanent, many of us (aka me) have been scarred from other groups promising the same thing (AKA 1D). When they announced their comeback and world tour in 2026, everyone seemed to have the same question weighing on their mind - was BTS going to be as big as they were before?
The release of their newest album, ‘ARIRANG’ sparked countless discussions online. Even as a fan myself, i couldn’t understand how ‘ARIRANG’ was supposed to be the next best thing BTS put out and an exploration of Korean culture at that… until i listened to it a couple more times.
The title track body to body kicks off the studio record with the traditional folk song “Arirang”, celebrating their heritage and group reunion. “SWIM” serves as an anchor, encouraging army to keep moving forward and embrace whatever hardships may come our way. the album is also tastefully split into two halves by the interlude “No. 29”, signifying their transition from a hip-hop heavy beginning to their now broader pop/R&B sound.
As BTS continues on their “ARIRANG” world tour, the question now is no longer whether they can regain their footing; having proven that they were never in danger of losing it, we now wonder just how much higher they can go.
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