Referred to as the “Pop Icons of the 21st Century,” BTS’s journey to date has left an indelible mark on the global K-pop scene. During the group’s absence, a reality widely acknowledged by both industry insiders and the general public is that no other act has managed to surpαѕѕ BTS’s level of influence. Industry professionals are in agreement: “The presence of BTS is soмєтнing no one can easily rival.”

For this reason, since BTS completed their military service, the world has placed immense expectations on their return after a three-year hiatus. In particular, the group’s full-member comeback album is seen not only as a milestone for BTS themselves, but also as a source of hope for revitalizing the K-pop industry, which has experienced two consecutive years of negative growth in album sales.

The anticipation grew so intense that many hoped the group would release at least a single or carry out some official group activities in the latter half of 2025 to shorten the waiting period. However, because this is BTS, their first step back holds exceptional significance. Clearly, they chose to prioritize the very essence of being artists—music—above all else. Fully aware of this, BTS approached their comeback with caution and careful deliberation in its planning.

After six months of silence, on January 1, BigHit Music, BTS’s agency, shared an article from Star News confirming that the official comeback date for BTS’s new album had been set for March 20. In addition to the album, the article also mentioned a large-scale world tour to follow. It was noted that further details regarding the album and concerts would be revealed later through the group’s official channels.

In truth, this news did not come as a major surprise to fans. As early as December 31, ARMYs had been widely circulating speculation that March 20 would be BTS’s comeback date, based on the inscription “2026.3.20” printed on the handwritten letters the members sent to fans (Gold Members of the Weverse membership) as a gesture of gratitude for their unwavering support over the past three years.

More importantly, ARMYs were deeply moved upon realizing that March 20 was chosen for its many sweet symbolic meanings. The date coincides with the spring equinox, which officially marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, including South кσяєα. The arrival of spring symbolizes new beginnings, a new season, a new chapter, and rebirth—perfectly aligning with the promise BTS made on July 1, after all members were discharged, that they would return in the spring of the following year.

In addition, fans discovered that March 20 is also the International Day of Happiness, a day dedicated to celebrating positivity, connection, and human well-being. Returning on this date reflects the core spirit that has long defined BTS’s music: healing, empathy, and the spread of positive energy. After three years of waiting, BTS’s comeback itself represents the greatest happiness for ARMY—and it arrives, fittingly, on a day recognized globally as a celebration of happiness.

Furthermore, the birth flower for March 20, 2026 is the purple tulip. The color purple has long been αѕѕociated with BTS and ARMY ever since V’s iconic phrase, “I purple you,” meaning “I will trust you and love you for a long time.” Coincidentally, in the language of flowers, purple tulips symbolize eternal love. BTS’s comeback date in 2026 thus becomes a subtle yet powerful affirmation of the enduring and steadfast bond between the group and their fans.

Additionally, before the turn of the new year, BTS joined fans for a New Year’s countdown via Weverse Live. The members expressed their wishes, saying, “We hope we can make a smooth comeback this year and that the album will do well,” before cheering, “Let’s make BTS a huge success.”

All of these elements have made the atmosphere of anticipation more emotional and exhilarating than ever. Fans wrote on social media, expressing:

- "uplift fans' mental health and well being" TRUER WORDS HAVE NEVER BEEN SPOKEN

- How wonderful! We're going to be doubly happy that day!

- There's so many layers... it's insane. The universe is always on bangtans side

- Perfectly chosen! Happy ARMY Day for sure!

- “Rebirth and new growth after winter” - the new era is coming, 2026 is our year

- God preparing BTS comeback 6 thousand years ago

- Wow. Spring Day with purple flowers is the absolute perfect day for a comeback. We made it thru!!

- So.... They basically love us so much like, so, so, so much?

- They're gorgeous flowers! Omg everything is aligning so incredibly well!

- Everything is so perfectly connected—d*mn, what kind of titanium-level mind came up with all of this?

- Love and happiness will surely be celebrated that day. Welcome back BTS

- With Bangtan's comeback, it will be a literal international day of happiness for us