BTS fans around the world may need to brace themselves for disappointing news. Recent statements from HYBE’s CEO suggest the group’s planned 2025 reunion could face unexpected delays. This could potentially extend their hiatus beyond current expectations.
Notably, this is not the first time a HYBE senior official has hinted at a delay.
CEO Lee Jae Sang and shareholders gathered to outline the company’s future strategies, including discussions on BTS’s much-awaited comeback at HYBE Labels’ annual board meeting on March 31.
A key focus was whether BTS would reunite for full-group activities in 2025 after completing their mandatory military service obligations.
Addressing the questions of shareholders, CEO Lee acknowledged that BTS members will complete military service this year. However, he crushed the hopes of fans (ARMY) saying that the group needs time for comeback preparations, “Upon their return, the members need plenty of time to prepare.”
During the meeting, CEO Lee Jae Sang confirmed HYBE is already working behind the scenes to prepare for BTS’ comeback. The company has begun reaching out to top-tier producers and songwriters to guarantee a high-caliber release.
However, he made it clear that HYBE wants to give the members proper time and space to readjust after completing their military service. The final decision on comeback timing and creative direction will ultimately come down to members.
“The agency is currently proceeding with the necessary preparations, holding talks with top music producers. However, this matter also requires significant deliberation from the perspectives of the members”, Lee Jae Sang said.
He added, “Typically, artists work on an album, release that album, and then go on a tour. However, BTS are artists of top global status, and this status requires a careful evaluation of the group’s vision for what is ‘next’.”
CFO Lee Kyung Joon addressed questions about BTS’ return, explaining that the company is still in the process of finalizing the group’s 2026 promotional plans. “We are still in the process of discussions,” he noted, “we do not have any projections laid out at this time.”
This cautious statement has led many fans to speculate that BTS may not resume full group activities immediately after the members (RM, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jungkook) complete their military service in mid-2025.
Notably, the group members’ exclusive contracts with HYBE are set to expire around 2027. It also means their 2026 activities could be closely tied to renewal negotiations.
BTS members will likely proceed with solo releases and tours after discharging while preparing for group comebacks.
Most experts agree that clearer information about BTS’s comeback timeline will likely emerge later this year or in early 2025, as HYBE and the members finalize their plans. For now, the company appears to be focused on maintaining realistic expectations while preparing for what will undoubtedly be a significant moment in K-pop history.