BTS has officially announced pre-orders for their fifth full-length album, ARIRANG, one of the most anticipated K-pop releases of 2026. To secure your album, receive first-press benefits, and ensure your purchase counts toward official charts, it’s important to pre-order through verified retailers and within the correct time window.
This guide explains when pre-orders begin, where to buy ARIRANG officially, and what fans should know before placing an order, based on the official notice from BIGHIT MUSIC.
What ARIRANG Represents for BTS and ARMY
ARIRANG takes its name from a traditional Korean song that symbolizes history, resilience, and collective identity. For BTS, the album reflects cultural roots and musical legacy, making it one of their most symbolic projects to date.
For fans, pre-ordering places you at the very beginning of the album’s release cycle and often includes first-press inclusions, retailer bonuses, and chart-eligible sales that standard purchases may not offer.
Official Pre-Order Date and Release Schedule
According to BIGHIT MUSIC:
- Pre-Order Start Date:
11:00 AM, Friday, January 16, 2026 (KST) - Official Release Date:
1:00 PM, Friday, March 20, 2026 (KST) - Shipping Information:
Albums will be shipped in order of purchase starting on March 20, 2026, to all countries and regions.
Pre-orders placed early contribute to first-week sales figures, which directly affect Korean and global chart performance.
Where to Pre-Order ARIRANG (Official Retailers Only)
To avoid counterfeit albums and ensure chart eligibility, purchase only through official or authorized retailers.
Korean Retailers
- Weverse Shop
- SOUNDWAVE
- MUSICPLANT
- MAKESTAR
- Aladin
- Ktown4u
Japanese Retailers
- BTS JAPAN Official Shop
- Universal Music Store Japan
Other Overseas Retailers
- Authorized international retailers listed by regional distributors (availability varies by country)
Tip: If chart performance matters to you, confirm that your chosen retailer reports sales to Hanteo, Circle Chart, Oricon, or Billboard where applicable.
Step-by-Step: How to Pre-Order BTS ARIRANG
- Visit an official retailer once pre-orders open on January 16, 2026
- Select your preferred album version
- Review product details, inclusions, and shipping dates
- Enter accurate shipping and payment information
- Complete checkout and save your confirmation email
Most retailers send confirmation immediately. Keep it until your album ships.
Album Versions and What’s Included
ARIRANG is available in multiple physical, vinyl, and digital-style formats, including:
- ARIRANG (Rooted in Korea Ver.)
- ARIRANG (Rooted in Music Ver.)
- ARIRANG (Living Legend Ver.)
- ARIRANG (Weverse Albums Ver.)
- Vinyl Editions
- Modern Korea Vinyl
- Group Red Vinyl
- Member-specific Standard Vinyls (7 versions)
- Deluxe Vinyl (B&W and Color versions)
- Modern Korea Vinyl
- Travel Tag CD Box Set
Each version features different packaging, photobooks, photocards, posters, and collectibles. Some versions are limited, and availability may vary by retailer.
Shipping Timelines: What to Expect
- Albums begin shipping on or after March 20, 2026
- International orders may take longer depending on location and customs
- Tracking information is usually provided once the album leaves the warehouse
Pre-ordering does not mean immediate delivery, but it ensures priority fulfillment.
Tips to Avoid Common Pre-Order Mistakes
- Buy only from official or authorized stores
- Double-check shipping fees and currency before checkout
- Avoid unofficial resale listings during the pre-order period
- Review cancellation and refund policies carefully
These steps help protect both your purchase and your fan experience.
How Pre-Ordering Makes a Difference?
Pre-orders directly impact:
- First-week sales numbers
- Korean and global chart rankings
- Media coverage and industry recognition
By ordering through official channels, you support BTS in a measurable and meaningful way.
Leave a Reply