BTS Comeback Strategy & Timeline: Why 2026 Is the Year to Watch

By Rowella Michaels | June 2025

BTS at the White House on May 31, 2022,” photo by The White House, public domain.

The Return We've All Been Waiting For

After years of breaking records and redefining pop culture, BTS entered a new phase with the start of their military service in 2022. Fast forward to now — all seven members are scheduled to complete their duties by June 2025.

So why is HYBE delaying the full group comeback until 2026?

Let’s dive into BTS’s military discharge timeline, comeback planning, and why this strategic delay could set them up for their biggest era yet.

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BTS Military Service Timeline: A Phased Return

BTS didn’t all enlist at once — and that was no accident. HYBE implemented a phased enlistment model to reduce disruption and maintain momentum through solo activities.

Member	Enlistment Date	Discharge Date
Jin	Dec. 2022	June 12, 2024
J-Hope	April 2023	Oct. 17, 2024
RM	Dec. 11, 2023	June 10, 2025
V	Dec.11, 2023	June 10, 2025
Jimin	Dec. 12, 2023	June 11, 2025
Jungkook	Dec. 12, 2023	June 11, 2025
Suga	Sept. 22, 2023	June 21, 2025 (public service)

💡 Fun fact: This strategy is called “gunbaekgi” in the K-pop industry — a staggered enlistment method that allows for business continuity.

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Why Not 2025? The Strategy Behind the Delay

Although BTS will be fully discharged by June 2025, HYBE has made it clear: the real full-group comeback will happen in 2026.

Why the wait?

1. Creative Alignment

After years of solo exploration, BTS members need time to reunite creatively. Each one has developed a unique artistic identity. Now, they need space to sync that growth into one cohesive sound.

“It’s not about coming back fast. It’s about coming back right.” – HYBE CEO Lee Jang Sang

2. Global Preparation

A BTS comeback isn’t just a release — it’s a global cultural event. Preparing a world tour, marketing, and new music at the highest quality takes time.

3. Financial Optimization

The 2026 calendar allows HYBE to align with global tour cycles and maximize album sales, merchandising, and streaming revenue — especially after a dip during the hiatus.

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What’s Happening in 2025?

Even without a group comeback, 2025 is stacked with BTS activity:

• Jin: Released Echo (May 2025) + global solo tour starts June 28
• J-Hope: "Hope on the Stage Final" concert on June 13–14
• Jungkook: World tour rumors swirling (announcement expected soon)
• RM, V, Jimin, Suga: More music, shows, and online fan engagement

BTS Festa 2025

Running from June 1–14, this year’s Festa celebrates BTS's 12th anniversary with:

• Interactive booths at KINTEX, Goyang
• Voice messages from all 7 members
• Trophy and memory zones
• J-Hope’s solo concert as the headline act

The theme? “Twelve O’Clock” — symbolizing a fresh start and new beginning.

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2026: What to Expect from the Full Comeback

Here's what fans and industry insiders are projecting:

• New Album – Late 2025 or early 2026
• World Tour – Officially expected in 2026
• New Artistic Direction – Mature, evolved, and deeply personal

💬 ARMY fan theories hint at a “DREAM” concept — a potential nod to new beginnings and shared hope.

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Final Thoughts: The Wait Will Be Worth It!

This isn’t just another comeback. It’s a relaunch of BTS — older, wiser, and more creatively empowered.

By strategically delaying their full return, HYBE and BTS are setting the stage for something bigger than ever. The phased approach, combined with 2025’s solo content, ensures ARMY stays connected while the group prepares to redefine K-pop once again.

As J-Hope said, the time apart will create “even greater synergy” when they reunite.

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🔗 Related Articles:

• HOTTEST K-POP SONG | 2025 MID-YEAR POLL
• Jin of BTS Rewrites Billboard Rules with EP 'Echo' | May 2025 Chart Breakdown
• J-Hope’s “MONA LISA” MV Review: A Living Masterpiece of Music, Movement, and Meaning

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🗨️ What Do You Think?

Are you excited for the 2026 comeback? Which member's solo era has impressed you most? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 💜