Inside BTS Members’ Solo Ventures Before Their Comeback Album ‘Arirang’

After years of record-breaking success, BTS stepped away from group promotions in 2022 as members began mandatory military service. During the pause, each artist explored solo projects that revealed new sides of their artistry ahead of the group’s long-awaited comeback album, "Arirang."

Few music groups have shaped global pop culture the way BTS has. Since debuting in 2013, the South Korean septet composed of Jin, Suga, j-hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook has broken barriers for Asian artists and built one of the world’s most dedicated fandoms, known as ARMY.

Their songs blend hip-hop, pop, and emotional storytelling while addressing themes such as growing up, identity, and social pressure. Over the years, the group has also reached major milestones, including selling out Wembley Stadium and the Rose Bowl in 2019 and earning five GRAMMY nominations.

When BTS announced in 2022 that they would pause group activities while fulfilling South Korea’s mandatory military service, attention shifted to the members’ individual work. Each artist used the time to release solo music and expand their creative identities.

With BTS set to return on March 20, 2026, with the comeback album "Arirang," here is a closer look at what each member accomplished during their solo era.

Jin Builds His Solo Identity

Jin, often nicknamed “Worldwide Handsome,” has long been known for his smooth vocals. Before pursuing solo projects, he released several individual tracks within BTS albums, including "Awake," "Epiphany," and "Moon."

He also shared personal songs on SoundCloud, including "Tonight" and "Abyss." The first was inspired by the deaths of his dog and two sugar glider pets, while the latter explored personal fears and anxieties.

In 2021, Jin recorded "Yours," the theme for the drama "Jirisan." He later released the playful viral song "Super Tuna," which gained attention on YouTube and TikTok.

Shortly before enlisting in December 2022, Jin debuted his official solo single "The Astronaut," co-written with Coldplay. After completing military service in June 2024, he participated in the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch Relay, released a music video for "Super Tuna," and launched his first album "Happy."

In May 2025, Jin released the EP "Echo," expanding his rock-inspired sound. He also announced his first solo world tour, "RunSeokjin Ep. Tour," beginning in South Korea and ending in Amsterdam.

Suga’s Work as Agust D

Suga entered his solo career under the name Agust D. Even before BTS paused group activities, he had established himself as a songwriter and producer.

He worked with artists such as Halsey on "Suga's Interlude," PSY on "That That," and IU on "Eight." Within BTS albums, his solo tracks included "Intro: Never Mind," "First Love," "Trivia: Seesaw," and "Interlude: Shadow."

Under the Agust D alias, he released two mixtapes, "Agust D" in 2016 and "D-2" in 2020. In April 2023, he completed the trilogy with the studio album "D-Day," which explored themes of anger, pain, and resilience.

That same year, Suga became the first BTS member to headline his own tour across the United States and Asia. He enlisted in September 2023 and was discharged on June 21, 2025.

j-hope Steps Into the Spotlight

Initially known as BTS’ main dancer, j-hope also became one of the group’s rappers and songwriters. His solo mixtape "Hope World" arrived in 2018 and reached No. 38 on the Billboard 200, making him the highest-charting Korean soloist at the time. He later collaborated with Becky G on the song "Chicken Noodle Soup."

When BTS paused group promotions in 2022, j-hope became the first member to release a full solo album. "Jack in the Box" arrived in July, and he soon made history as the first South Korean artist to headline Lollapalooza.

During military service, he released the single "on the street" featuring J. Cole and the collaborative album "Hope on the Street Vol.1," which was paired with the Prime Video docuseries "Hope on the Street." After his discharge in October 2024, j-hope resumed performing and launched his "Hope on the Street" solo tour.

RM’s Thoughtful Musical Journey

As BTS’ leader, RM has long played a key role in songwriting and production. He has collaborated with artists such as Fall Out Boy, Lil Nas X, Younha, Tiger JK, and Erykah Badu.

His first solo mixtape, "RM," arrived in 2015, followed by the introspective project "Mono" in 2018.

RM released his debut studio album "Indigo" in December 2022, describing it as “the last archive of my 20s.” The project explored themes about art and identity.

In May 2024, he followed it with "Right Place, Wrong Person," an 11-track album reflecting personal growth and exploration. Shortly before finishing military service in June 2025, RM collaborated with Epik High’s Tablo on the single "Stop the Rain."

Jimin, V, and Jung Kook Expand Their Sound

Jimin gained attention for his expressive vocals and dance performances in songs like "Lie," "Serendipity," and "Filter." His 2023 EP "Face" featured the single "Like Crazy," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and made him the first BTS member to reach No. 1 as a soloist.

In July 2024, he released his second album "MUSE," blending nostalgic pop influences with new collaborations.

V, known for his deep voice and artistic style, launched his solo album "Layover" in September 2023. The record explored jazz and lo-fi influences. During his enlistment, he also released the single "FRI(END)S" and a remix of Bing Crosby’s "White Christmas."

Jung Kook explored international collaborations before launching his solo career. After appearing on Charlie Puth’s "Left and Right," he released "Seven" featuring Latto in 2023. His debut album "Golden," led by the single "Standing Next to You," solidified his global appeal.

BTS Reunites With "Arirang"

After years of individual exploration, BTS is preparing to reunite as a group. Their comeback album "Arirang" arrives on March 20, 2026, featuring 14 tracks. The title song is "Swim," while "Into the Sun" closes the album.

The project includes contributions from producers such as Mike WiLL Made-It, Flume, Diplo, El Guincho, JPEGMAFIA, and Ryan Tedder. Members also played key roles in songwriting, with RM contributing to nearly every track.

As BTS enters its next chapter, "Arirang" represents the culmination of the members’ solo journeys and the return of one of the world’s most influential music groups.