BTS has surpassed its own legacy. After a 3-year and 9-month hiatus due to military service, the group returned with "ARIRANG" and immediately rewrote K-pop history.

BTS released its fifth full-length album "ARIRANG" on March 20 at 1 PM (KST). According to Hanteo Chart, the album sold 3.98 million copies on its first day alone.

The figure already exceeds the highest first-week sales in history. BTS previously held the record with "Map of the Soul: 7," which sold 3.37 million copies in its first week back in 2020.

Unprecedented Global Demand

Compared to previous releases, the scale is even more striking. Anthology album "Proof" recorded 2.75 million first-week sales, while mini album "BE" reached 2.27 million.

Reflecting massive anticipation from ARMY worldwide, "ARIRANG" became a million-seller within just 10 minutes of release.

The album also dominated global charts. It topped iTunes "Top Albums" in 88 countries and regions, including Italy, Mexico, and Sweden.

Chart Domination Across Platforms

The title track "SWIM" is equally powerful. As of 9 AM on March 21 (KST), it ranked No.1 on iTunes "Top Songs" in 90 countries and regions.

A full-album sweep followed. Tracks such as "Body to Body," "Normal," "Hooligan," and "Like Animals" lined up from No.1 to No.14 on global charts.

Domestic platforms saw the same trend. "SWIM" debuted at No.1 on Melon and Bugs real-time charts, while the rest of the tracks occupied top-tier positions.

The music video for "SWIM" also surged globally, hitting No.1 on YouTube Trending Music in 70 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and France.

"ARIRANG" encapsulates BTS's identity and emotional journey, reflecting universal feelings experienced throughout their career.

"SWIM" delivers a message of perseverance—continuing to move forward through life's waves, offering comfort and resonance to listeners.

Meanwhile, BTS will hold "BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG" at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on March 21 at 8 PM (KST).