Rumors about BTS participating in an upcoming Michael Jackson tribute album have been put to rest. On August 5, BIGHIT MUSIC released an official statement denying any connection between BTS and the rumored project.
The agency clarified that the group had not visited Grouse Lodge Studio in Ireland and had no part in recording any tracks related to a tribute album.
The group is not involved in the tribute album in any capacity,” BIGHIT MUSIC stated. The label added that it will “take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of inaccurate information.”
The rumor stemmed from an interview with Paddy Dunning, the owner of Grouse Lodge Studio, published by The Irish Sun.
In the article, Dunning reportedly said BTS had come to his studio to work on an unreleased Michael Jackson song. He claimed Jackson had left behind unfinished material during his time there in 2006.
He suggested that the new tribute album would include “world-famous artists” and described the track in question as something that would “send shivers down your spine.”
These comments triggered widespread speculation that BTS was one of the artists involved, especially after online reports named producers Rodney Jerkins and Nephew as part of the project. Paddy Dunning also said that he had the blessings of Michael Jackson estate who encouraged him to move forward with the project.
Shortly after the rumor gained traction, a representative from Michael Jackson’s estate stated that no such collaboration was authorized. In media reports, they clarified that neither BTS nor any artist had been granted permission to record or release unreleased Jackson material as part of a tribute project.
In the days following the rumor, media outlets have begun issuing corrections or updating their stories after BIGHIT’s denial.
Looking ahead, all seven BTS members are currently focusing on their return as a full group in 2026, following the completion of their military service. They will reunite early next year after almost four years for group album and world tour.
Until then, their agency will strictly address baseless rumors, “We remain fully committed to supporting the artists and their endeavors,” BIGHIT concluded.
