BTS fans have a lot to celebrate as the South Korean group’s upcoming album, ARIRANG, has shattered pre-order records. On January 23, 2026, it was reported by South Korean outlet OSEN that the album had already amassed an impressive 4.06 million pre-orders in its first week. This milestone was achieved just seven days after pre-orders officially opened on January 16, surpassing the group’s previous record set by their fourth album, MAP OF THE SOUL: 7.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that ARIRANG has become the first album ever to reach the 4 million pre-order mark before its release date. The anticipation for the album, which is set to be released on March 20 at 1 pm KST, is at an all-time high. With 14 tracks that delve into BTS’s experiences and emotions, fans are eagerly awaiting the group’s return after almost 4 years since their last full-length album.
The demand for ARIRANG is not limited to digital platforms, as physical editions of the album have also been met with overwhelming response. When pre-orders opened on January 16, all vinyl editions sold out in under 20 minutes on Weverse Shop US. The Rooted in Korea version, Rooted in Music edition, and Deluxe Vinyl Color version were among the first to fly off the shelves. Additionally, individual member-specific vinyl editions sold out quickly, showcasing the group’s immense popularity.
BIGHIT MUSIC has detailed the various formats and inclusions available for ARIRANG, catering to both online and offline music retailers in Korea, Japan, and other regions. The album offers a range of editions, including standard CD releases like Rooted in Korea and Rooted in Music, as well as special editions like Living Legend and Weverse Albums. Vinyl collectors can choose from Modern Korea Vinyl, Group Red Vinyl, Standard Vinyl, and member-specific vinyl editions.
The Deluxe Vinyl package, available in Black and White and Color variants, offers a premium set with exclusive items like a gatefold sleeve, turntable slipmat, and a seven-member photocard set. The album’s release has sparked a surge in interest across platforms, with the global fan community platform Weverse seeing a threefold increase in membership subscribers. On Spotify, ARIRANG’s pre-save count has already surpassed 2 million, raising expectations for its success.
As fans eagerly await the release of ARIRANG, the buzz surrounding BTS’s comeback continues to grow. The group’s ability to break records and captivate audiences before the album’s official launch is a testament to their enduring popularity and influence in the music industry. With the release date drawing closer, ARIRANG is poised to make a significant impact on the charts and solidify BTS’s status as global superstars.
