BTS release animated trailer inspired by Korean history for Arirang, watch

Story of ARIRANG released by BTS in animated video

• BTS announces comeback album Arirang, inspired by Korean heritage
• Animated trailer showcases Arirang's history and culture
• Album releases March 20, live show streams globally on March 21

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BTS are finally stepping into a new era with their much anticipated comeback album, and they are doing it by looking back at the roots of Korean culture, where they all grew up.

On March 13, the globally loved K-pop group released an animated trailer for their upcoming fifth studio album Arirang, giving fans a moving glimpse into the story and inspiration behind their long-awaited comeback.

The album marks BTS’ first major release in four years, a period during which the members — Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook — stepped away from group activities to complete South Korea’s mandatory military service.

Their return has already created massive anticipation among their global fan base, known as ARMY.

For this comeback, BTS have carefully chosen a very meaningful theme rather than just going with another pop culture heavy concept.

The album takes its name from Arirang, a centuries-old Korean folk song often described as the country’s unofficial anthem.

The animated trailer brings this heritage to life through a historical narrative. It opens with a note explaining that the video is inspired by a story documented by The Washington Post on May 8, 1986.

The story of this song recalls a remarkable moment where seven Korean students were studying at Howard University in Washington, DC.

According to historical records, the students created one of the earliest known recordings of Korean voices in the United States.

The video depicts seven young men winding a gramophone before the haunting melody of Arirang begins to play.

Shortly after that, the next chapter of the story depicts the students boarding the ship and travelling to America, showcasing their courage and uncertainty in leaving their homes for new opportunities.

These students, later known as the “Howard Seven”, reportedly arrived at Howard University in May 1896 after leaving Korea during a period of political turmoil. Their journey symbolised both hope and displacement showing that emotions are deeply embedded in the spirit of the folk song itself.

Also Read: BTS drops first look of comeback album Arirang, see here

Arirang is believed to be over 600 years old and has been a song of great significance in Korea for many centuries. It was especially significant from 1910 to 1945 when Korea was occupied by Japan; it became closely associated with resistance and national identity.

The animated trailer uploaded by the official account of BTS, ends with a powerful shift from the past to the present, showing BTS performing in front of a massive crowd.

BTS’ agency BigHit Music described the project as a creative interpretation designed to introduce international audiences to the emotional depth and cultural importance of the song.

The album Arirang will be released on March 20, followed by a large live performance at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on March 21, which will be streamed worldwide on Netflix.