BTS candidly reflected on their return as a full group, sharing honest thoughts about their hiatus, growth, and renewed sense of purpose in a special feature with Rolling Stone.
On April 14, Rolling Stone unveiled BTS’s May issue group cover along with an exclusive interview video. The project marks the magazine’s largest global collaboration to date, simultaneously published across 16 countries and regions including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. The issue features one group cover and seven individual member covers, making it the first-ever initiative of its kind for a K-pop artist.
The interviews explore the members’ intense reflection during their break and the emotional and creative journey that led them back together as a complete team. Leader RM highlighted that the 14-track lineup from their upcoming release ‘ARIRANG’ is intended as a message to listeners wondering what BTS will become in 2026. He also emphasized the importance of artistic risk-taking, stating that “if we stop challenging ourselves, there is no reason to continue as a team.”
The members also expressed deep trust and emotional dependence on one another. Jin shared that he has always believed there would be no reason to continue his career without the group, underscoring his strong commitment to BTS as a unit.
j-hope reflected on their dynamic, noting that the group’s strength comes from how each member compensates for the others’ weaknesses, reaffirming why they are inseparable as seven.
SUGA expressed a more relaxed perspective compared to earlier years, emphasizing that beyond achievements, he now values health, balance, and enjoying the process of making music together. Jimin spoke about his determination to elevate his performance and prove his value within the group, aiming to further raise BTS’s artistic standing.
V focused on personal growth during his military service, describing how he rebuilt both his physical and mental strength while planning his next artistic phase. Finally, Jungkook revealed how deeply he missed performing during the hiatus, saying his longing for the stage and dance was poured directly into the group’s upcoming work.
Rolling Stone will continue releasing BTS’s group and individual covers along with interview content daily at 7 PM from April 14 through April 20, gradually unveiling the full special project to global audiences.
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