- January 21, 2026
Why ARMYs Think BTS’ ARIRANG Cover Honours Seven Korean Students From 1896
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BTS’ ARIRANG album cover sparks fan theories about a tribute to seven Korean students who recorded the folk song in 1896. Here’s why ARMYs believe so.
BTS is set to kick off their comeback world tour in April 2026. (Photo Credit: Instagram)
K-pop superstars BTS unveiled the cover of their upcoming fifth studio album ARIRANG on January 19, instantly setting off a wave of speculation across the fandom. The stark visual features the word “ARIRANG” written in bold, uppercase letters against a muted grey-black background, accompanied by silhouettes of all seven members—Jin, RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook. While minimalist at first glance, ARMYs believe the artwork carries a deeply layered message rooted in Korean history.
The silhouettes show the members dressed in tuxedos, standing in a carefully structured formation. Fans noted that Jimin, J-Hope, Suga and V appear to be positioned in the back row from left to right, while Jungkook, RM and Jin stand in the front. Clicking on each silhouette reveals a hidden voice message from the respective member, adding an interactive element to the cover. One such message has already caught attention, with Jimin confirming the comeback date: “Hi! BTS will be back on 20 March with the 5th album, Arirang.”
Beyond the visuals, the styling of the image—complete with what fans describe as an “old photograph” texture—has prompted ARMYs to dig deeper into its historical parallels.
Why ARMYs believe ARIRANG is a tribute to seven Korean students
According to popular fan theories circulating on social media, BTS may be paying homage to seven Korean students from Howard University who first recorded Arirang in the United States in 1896. Known as the “Howard Seven,” these students are historically credited with introducing the iconic folk song to a Western audience.
ARMYs were quick to draw connections between the number of students and BTS’ seven-member lineup. One fan wrote on X, “I ran the ARIRANG teaser image through Photoshop and it is stylised like an old-timey photo, scratches and all. It is likely a homage to the seven Korean students who were enrolled at Howard University in 1896, 130 years ago! When BTS said ‘back to our roots’ they meant it!” Another user pointed out the striking numerical symmetry, noting, “And both groups are made of SEVEN individuals.”
Others, however, believe the symbolism goes beyond a historical nod. A fan explained, “Back to their roots means back to the roots of BTS, that’s why RM said in the audio ‘The ARIRANG of BTS’ and I think Jin asked what’s ARMY’s Arirang. Arirang meant more than this, it’s overcoming.”
For context, Arirang is one of Korea’s most significant folk songs, often described as the country’s unofficial anthem. It represents collective memory, resilience and emotional endurance—values BTS have consistently echoed throughout their career. Notably, the group previously performed an Arirang medley at KCON 2016 in Paris, reinforcing their long-standing connection to the cultural symbol.
BTS will officially return on March 20 with ARIRANG, followed by a massive world tour spanning 34 cities and 79 concerts across five continents through 2026–2027.
January 21, 2026, 07:25 IST
