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January 5, 2026

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The Wait is Over: BTS Returns with 5th Album & Massive World Tour News

BigHit Music has officially broken the silence, confirming via Weverse that global superstars BTS are set to make their highly anticipated return.

Key Release Details

  • Album Release: March 20 at 1 PM KST.
  • Significance: This is the group’s fifth full-length album and their first major release in nearly four years (3 years and 9 months).
  • Content: The album features 14 tracks that BigHit describes as “filled with the most BTS-like music.”

Creative Direction & Message According to the agency, this album is not just a comeback but a declaration of the group’s future direction. The seven members were heavily involved in the songwriting process, pouring their personal thoughts and emotions into the lyrics.

“The album contains sincere stories that we truly wanted to share with ARMY… [It] is also a heartfelt expression of gratitude to ARMY who have steadfastly stood by us for a long time.” — BigHit Music

World Tour Incoming The excitement doesn’t stop with the music. BTS is also preparing for a world tour. The full schedule and dates will be revealed on January 14 at 12 AM KST.

Korean Cinema Legend Ahn Sung-ki Passes Away at 74

Veteran actor Ahn Sung-ki has passed away peacefully at the age of 74, surrounded by his family.

The Tragic Circumstances According to his agency, Artist Company, the actor passed away on the morning of January 5 at 9 AM KST. His passing follows a critical incident on December 30, when he collapsed from cardiac arrest after choking on food. He was immediately rushed to the hospital and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) but sadly never regained consciousness.

Upon hearing of his critical condition, his eldest son, Ahn Da-bin, urgently returned from overseas on January 2 to remain by his father’s side until the end.

A Battle Fought with Grace Ahn Sung-ki had been battling blood cancer since his diagnosis in 2019. Although he briefly achieved remission, the cancer recurred, requiring further treatment. Despite his health struggles, he remained a beloved public figure, attending various events—including the Beautiful Artist Awards and the Golden Cinematography Awards—with his signature warm smile.

A “Film Industry Funeral” To honor his immense contribution to Korean cinema, his funeral will be conducted as a special “Film Industry Funeral,” jointly organized by the Shin Young Kyun Arts and Culture Foundation and the Korean Film Actors Association.

  • Pallbearers: Fellow stars Lee Jung-jae and Jung Woo-sung will carry the casket.
  • Wake: Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, Room 31.
  • Funeral Procession: January 9 at 6 AM.
  • Burial: Byeolgeurida Cemetery in Yangpyeong.