“What’s Happening?” — ARMYs Respond to BIGHIT MUSIC’s Clarification on BTS Comeback Delay Speculations

BIGHIT MUSIC Addresses BTS Group Activities and Future Plans

On November 7, 2024, Newsen reported that BIGHIT MUSIC provided clarity regarding the future of BTS following their military enlistment. The agency, a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation, revealed they are actively in discussions with the group about upcoming activities for their anticipated return in 2026.

Strategic Changes in HYBE’s Approach

HYBE’s CFO, Lee Kyung-joon, emphasized that the company’s reliance on BTS alone has diminished. He noted that when BTS returns, the expansion of their other K-pop groups will also be significant. “I do not expect BTS’ sales ratio to be as high as in the past,”said Lee.

“We are still discussing 2026 activities with the members,”he explained, indicating that no firm projections had been established yet. “Of course, if they make a comeback as a full group, there will be significant sales, but our other artists’ new ventures will also contribute to overall growth.”

Communication Strategy with Fans

Lee reassured fans that updates will be shared at the appropriate time, signaling the group’s dedication to transparency.

“Once specific plans such as the timing and method are finalized, we will inform fans accordingly.”

Fan Reactions and Expectations

The announcement stirred confusion within the BTS ARMY, with many fans questioning the potential return date of 2025 or 2026. A fan expressed their concern on X, asking:

“What’s exactly going on?”

Many supporters perceived BIGHIT MUSIC’s cautious messaging as an effort to prevent speculation. One fan noted that the mention of 2026 seems related more to potential tour plans than immediate group activities.

“It sounds like Big Hit Music is being careful with updates, especially with members still serving. The mention of 2026 seems more about future plans rather than current activities.”

Reactions among fans varied, with some emphasizing the importance of giving the members adequate time to transition back to everyday life after their military service. Comments ranged from:

“Let them take a rest until they are ready. No need to rush; we will wait for them,”said one fan.

“Maybe people should let them come home and take a moment before resuming activities; it’s not like they have been in summer camp for 18 months,”noted another supporter.

BTS’s Contract Renewals: Recent Insights

In September 2023, BIGHIT MUSIC announced the renewal of individual contracts for all BTS members, marking a significant step in their ongoing partnership. According to Forbes, the group initially extended their contracts five years after their debut in June 2013. The label confirmed:

“The board of BigHit Music unanimously agreed to renew exclusive contracts for RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook.”

While K-pop contracts typically span seven years, BTS opted to renew their agreements two years prior to the completion of their initial contracts in both 2018 and 2023. This premature renewal left fans speculating about potential reasons behind the decision.

Recent discussions have arisen concerning the treatment of members like Kim Taehyung and Jeon Jungkook, particularly following concerns about promotional support for Taehyung’s solo album, Layover. On September 30, 2024, Taehyung’s English single, “FRI(END)S,” was recognized at the 2024 UK Music Video Awards, leading to fan-led campaigns such as “HYBE RESPECT TAEHYUNG” seeking better representation.

Fans have also highlighted the lack of availability of Layover vinyl globally, which affected its positioning on the Billboard charts and playlists. Despite such challenges, BTS members RM, V, Suga, Jimin, and Jungkook are set to return from military service by June 2025, with Jin and J-Hope having already completed their service.

As the BTS ARMY remains eager for updates, it appears the group is taking the necessary time to ensure their return is well-planned and impactful.

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