BTS, achievements of 'Ariana'… Rolling Stone "Best album of '26"

[Dispatch=Lee Myung-ju Reporter] BTS' new album has been selected as the best album of the first half of this year.

BTS released their fifth studio album 'ARIRANG' on March 20. Major foreign media outlets took note of their complete comeback after approximately 3 years and 9 months.

It was named the best album among all records released worldwide this year. American Rolling Stone praised it, saying "Korean characteristics were excellently implemented through music."

British NME stated, "BTS has done what they have always done well, skillfully blending their home country's cultural heritage and global musical influence."

'Telegraph' also included 'ARIRANG' in the 'Best Albums of 2026'. It evaluated the album, saying "they returned to their hip-hop roots and infused cultural identity into the music."

American 'Salon' focused on the dynamic sound of 'ARIRANG'. The media praised the members as "mature artists and excellent storytellers."

Praise also continued for the tracks included on the album. 'Complex' gave high praise to 'Hooligan', saying it "is a work that demonstrated an undeniable presence."

NME selected 'Body to Body' as a must-listen representative track. American 'Consequence' named both 'Swim' and 'Hooligan' as 'best songs'.

The media explained, "BTS is skilled at handling multiple genres. They pour rap over rough hip-hop beats, demonstrating their true value."

Meanwhile, BTS will embark on a European tour starting with Madrid, Spain on the 26th-27th. The tour will span 5 cities with 10 shows in total.