• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

BTS Agency, BigHit Music, a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation, on November 7, 2024, issued a statement addressing ongoing speculation about BTS’ comeback timeline following their mandatory military enlistments. Recent media reports suggested uncertainty around the timing of BTS' return, with specific mentions of possible 2026 activities. In response, BigHit Music assured fans that discussions about post-discharge activities are actively ongoing with the band members, yet final decisions on the timeline remain undecided.

HYBE CFO Lee Kyung-joon highlighted the evolving dynamics within HYBE, noting that while BTS has long been central to the company’s success, other groups within the label are also gaining prominence. Lee shared that although a full-group BTS comeback would generate significant interest and sales, he doesn’t foresee BTS's sales proportion returning to previous levels due to HYBE’s diversification strategy and the rise of new artists. “We are still discussing 2026 activities with the members, so the projection has not been made yet. Of course, if they make a comeback as a full group, there will be significant sales,” Lee stated, explaining that a more balanced revenue distribution is expected due to these new ventures.

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BigHit Music Updates (@bighit_ent)

 
 
 
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BTS News (@bts_daily.news)

Following this statement, reactions from the BTS ARMY surged on social media, reflecting mixed feelings. Some fans expressed confusion, interpreting the mention of 2026 as an indication of a delayed group return. Speculation has further intensified around whether the members would resume activities as a group in 2025 or 2026, especially given that contract renewals have already been a complex topic within the fandom.

BigHit Music had previously clarified BTS’ commitment by announcing individual contract renewals for all seven members in September 2023, an unusual move considering Kpop contracts generally operate on a seven-year cycle. In both 2018 and 2023, BTS renewed their contracts two years before expiration, which fans believe was due to unique considerations linked to the group’s enlistments. However, rumours surfaced about possible friction between members and the company, particularly regarding Kim Taehyung (V). Fans speculated that Taehyung’s promotions had been underwhelming, notably during the release of his solo album Layover in 2023, prompting hashtags like "#HYBERespectTaehyung" and "#HYBESabotageTaehyung."

One fan reacted by posting, “What’s exactly going on? BigHit Music seems cautious about how they communicate these updates. The mention of 2026 sounds more like future planning than a solid schedule.” Another noted, “It’s good they’re keeping fans in the loop, but the wording creates so much confusion.”

Amid the speculations, some fans insisted that only BTS members could be trusted for accurate updates. “If they were to return... Oh man, Tae never said they renewed. For me, there’s no new contract yet, just an extension because of military service,” commented one fan, referencing the uncertainty around contract details.

While BigHit has not ruled out 2025 for group activities, they remain committed to clear and timely communication with fans. "Once specific plans such as the timing and method are decided, we will inform fans at the appropriate time," the agency stated, emphasizing that plans are still forming.

Also Read: Kpop Most Powerful Songs Of 2024: Stray Kids' Chk Chk Boom, Aespa's Whiplash, BABYMONSTER's Drip And More

Also Read: BTS Jin Reveals He Started Working On Debut Solo Album In Military; Teases Main Track Running Wild Release