• Source:JND

Ahead of their comeback album Arirang, K-pop group BTS released an animated teaser exploring the history of the Korean folk song. The clip, titled What Is Your Love Song?, highlights the first recorded version of 'Arirang' by seven Korean students at Howard University in May 1896, referencing a report published in The Washington Post.

The seven students were notable for being among the earliest Koreans to pursue higher education in the United States, marking an important moment in the early exchange of Korean culture beyond its borders. In the animated teaser released ahead of their comeback album Arirang, K-pop group BTS highlights this historical milestone and draws a symbolic connection between that era and their own journey.

The video reflects on how Korean culture first reached audiences in the US through those students at Howard University and compares it with 2013, the year BTS debuted and eventually rose to become one of the most influential global pop acts of the 21st century.

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Arirang has been recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by both South Korea and North Korea. The song reflects the Korean concept of han—a deep emotion that combines sorrow, longing, resilience and hope. Through themes of separation, loss, perseverance, and love for the nation, the song has become a powerful cultural symbol for Koreans across generations. It is often referred to as Korea’s unofficial national anthem.

BTS had previously performed a live cover of the song during KCON 2016 France on June 14, 2016, and clips of that performance are currently circulating widely on social media. Following the release of their album Arirang on March 20, BTS members RM, Jin, J-Hope, Suga, Jimin, V and Jungkook will begin a world tour on April 9, starting at Goyang Sports Complex.

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The tour will cover 34 cities with 79 shows, making it the largest tour in Kpop history. It will also feature a special 360-degree stage design for fans.


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