As members of the group BTS complete their military service and return as a full group, foreign media have also shown interest in their return.
Earlier, BTS announced through a live broadcast on the afternoon of 1st Korean time that they will be making a comeback with a new full album in spring next year and will subsequently embark on a world tour.
BTS leader RM said, "Starting in July, we will gather together to focus on music production" and noted, "Our group album is scheduled to be released in spring next year. Naturally, we will also have tours, including a world tour starting in spring next year."
The Guardian reported that last month, with Suga being the last member to complete his military duty, expectations for BTS's return in the industry have grown, adding that the new album to be released next year will be their first album in four years since 2022.
The Guardian also cited data from the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute (KCTI), stating that BTS generated an annual economic effect of 5.5 trillion won before their military service, which amounts to approximately 0.2% of Korea's total gross domestic product (GDP).
BBC explained that South Korean men must complete 18 months of mandatory military service, and thus BTS had to suspend activities at the peak of their global fame. It also noted that fans, known as 'ARMY', have eagerly awaited BTS's full group return.
The Associated Press described BTS's return by referencing the lyrics of the group's song "Butter" and expressed it as "smooth like butter."
The Associated Press elaborated on the suspension of BTS's activities due to military service, stating, "Athletes, musicians, and dancers who receive top awards in specific competitions or are recognized for elevating the country's stature are granted military exemptions, but K-pop stars do not receive this benefit."