Howard University BTS backlash is putting fresh attention on a long-overlooked piece of Korean American history, while also reopening a bigger debate about representation and the Black creative roots that helped shape modern K-pop.

“Arirang” is not just a familiar melody in Korea but a UNESCO-recognized piece of intangible cultural heritage, carrying centuries of sorrow, endurance and reunion. That makes BTS’s decision to build a comeback album around the name feel less like branding and more like a statement of identity.

When BTS released the animated trailer for their fifth studio album Arirang on Thursday, the K-pop septet drew on an obscure moment in Korean-American history.

BTS's latest album, Arirang, has broken global sales and streaming records, drawing 110 million Spotify streams within 24 hours of its release.

One of the most interesting successes of BTS: The Return is the questions it leaves behind about where BTS is now and where they’ll go next.

BTS released their album, ARIRANG, and lead single, "SWIM," music video, which captures the group's emotional impact, their musical journey, and ushers their new era.

K-pop supergroup BTS made their long awaited return to the stage Saturday with a performance at Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, marking the band’s first appearance together in nearly four years.

BTSs Song Jio Costumes Blend Korean Heritage Designer highlights han and heroic figures in outfits for global tour

Explore iconic landmarks throughout the K-pop band’s history, from the current Hybe headquarters to their trainee-era haunts.