BTS’ “Arirang” Selected as “Best Album of 2026” by U.S. Rolling Stone, UK NME

’Global syndrome’ re-ignites as a masterpiece the world responds to

The landscape of global pop music is shifting again. BTS’ regular fifth studio album, `'Arirang (ARIRANG)'`, has been selected back-to-back by major overseas music outlets as the “best album in the first half of 2026,” underscoring its unmatched standing.

According to its agency BigHit Music, beginning on the 12th with the U.S. pop-culture media outlet `'Complex'`, followed by the British Telegraph on the 13th, Rolling Stone in the United States on the 15th, and the British NME on the 16th, respected critics around the world have been naming this new release among the best albums of the year.

In particular, music magazine `'Rolling Stone'` said, “The biggest event to shake up the global music market in 2026 is, without a doubt, BTS’ comeback,” adding, “With this new release, they have perfectly translated the record into universally appealing pop sound that captivates audiences around the world with the most Korean of colors.” NME, a prominent UK music publication, also paid tribute to the group as “the biggest boy band on the planet,” while the Telegraph hailed BTS as “the face and essence of `'K-pop'” and offered its respects.

Proof on stage is also ongoing. BTS wrapped up their domestic concerts on the 12th and 13th in Busan as the world tour, finishing amid an overwhelming scale. This burst of energy is headed straight for the European continent. Starting Feb. 26 and 27 with Madrid, Spain, the group will kick off a large-scale `'world tour'` totaling 10 shows that will visit five cities across Europe, and is set to reconnect with fans worldwide once again.