The director of BTS's comeback film, "The Return," has revealed that the project was inspired by the Odyssey and Greek mythology. The documentary is scheduled to premiere on Friday, March 27.
Film Details and Inspiration
The film documents the K-pop group's return, featuring all seven members reunited for the first time since a hiatus in 2022 for mandatory military service.
Director Bao Nguyen stated he identified common ground between Odysseus's 10-year journey home and the anticipation for BTS's return.
Nguyen first approached the group's label in 2021 and was re-contacted in the summer of 2025 regarding a film about the reunited group recording an album. Nguyen also shared that BTS member RM discussed Greek concepts of time, kairos and chronos, with him, which resonated with the film's framework.
Comeback Activities and Album Release
Prior to the film, BTS held a free concert in Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul.
The event was livestreamed to over 190 countries on Netflix and attracted approximately 104,000 fans, establishing a record for the largest public concert in South Korea.
The group released their comeback album, 'Arirang.' NME's review gave the album four stars, noting its exploration of contrasting ideas such as BTS as heroes versus ordinary people, and the distinction between public and private worlds. The review also highlighted the album's initial emphasis on hip-hop elements.
During their Seoul concert, new tracks from 'Arirang' were performed for the first time, including 'Body to Body,' 'Hooligan,' '2.0,' and 'Like Animals.' RM performed seated for much of the set due to an ankle sprain.
Upcoming World Tour
BTS has scheduled a world tour for 2026 and 2027, encompassing 34 regions and 79 live shows. This tour is set to be their most extensive to date.