BTS album rumours spark buzz as Bang Si Hyuk returns to Korea for investigation

Rumors claiming BTS’ upcoming album work has been halted due to HYBE chairman Bang Si Hyuk’s return to South Korea for a police investigation have taken the internet by storm. However, no official confirmation has been made, and the group’s work in Los Angeles appears to be ongoing.

Entertainment desk

August 14, 2025 / 20:41 IST

BTS album rumours spark buzz as Bang Si Hyuk returns to Korea for investigation

BTS, currently in Los Angeles working on their highly anticipated post-military comeback album, has found itself at the center of swirling speculation.

On August 13, multiple online reports claimed that the septet’s album production had come to a standstill after Bang Si Hyuk, founder of BIGHIT MUSIC and HYBE chairman, returned to South Korea on August 11 to face questioning in a stock fraud investigation.

According to a News Tong report, Bang Si Hyuk was allegedly unable to complete his work on BTS’ new album in the US and rushed back to South Korea via Incheon International Airport. The investigation, tied to HYBE’s IPO, has caused ripples across the Korean entertainment industry. However, no other credible media outlets have corroborated the claim that BTS’ music production has paused.

The rumors seem to contradict recent updates from the group. In the past few weeks, BTS members have shared behind-the-scenes glimpses from their LA studio sessions, including moments with international artists such as Charlie Puth and Diplo.

Their July 1 livestream confirmed plans to spend significant time in the US collaborating with top producers and composers. Over the last month and a half, members have been traveling between South Korea and the US to work on the album, keeping fans updated through social media.