BTS fans might have to wait longer than anticipated for the boy band’s return to the stage. While it was initially planned for the group to reunite in 2025 following the completion of their mandatory military service, HYBE, the agency behind BTS, has suggested the comeback could be delayed until 2026.
During HYBE's Q3 earnings call on November 5, Chief Financial Officer Lee Kyung Joon provided insights into the group's future plans, revealing that discussions about BTS’s activities for 2026 are still ongoing. “We are still in discussions with the members about activities for 2026, so no projections have been made right now,” Lee stated, according to reports from *Allkpop*.
The comments come as a bit of a surprise, as HYBE had previously confirmed in 2023 that BTS would resume full group activities in 2025. However, Lee also noted that while a reunion would undoubtedly generate significant sales, the agency does not expect revenue from the group to see the same level of growth it once did. HYBE is now focusing more on diversifying its portfolio, investing in rising acts like SEVENTEEN, TXT, LE SSERAFIM, and NewJeans, while continuing to manage BTS.
The delay has left many fans, known as ARMY, feeling disappointed. Some have even questioned whether the 2025 comeback announcement was part of a broader marketing strategy to maintain fan interest during the group’s extended break. With no clear timeline in place, fans are left waiting for more concrete details on when, or if, BTS will return in full force in the near future.
While BTS’s hiatus has allowed the individual members to focus on solo projects and military service, the question of when they will reunite as a group remains uncertain. As HYBE pivots to expand its roster of artists, the company’s long-term vision seems to be shifting toward a broader industry presence beyond its flagship group.