RM expresses concern about a one-dimensional culture and stresses BTS’s aim to protect romance and idealism in their art.

BTS is back with a full-group comeback and the fifth studio album Arirang, a milestone described as a miracle achieved by uniting the group, fans, and industry attention after each member explored different genres.

RM reflects that music now encompasses concerts, documentaries, and storytelling that deepen artist–audience connections.

Fan reactions across the globe were emotional and supportive, sharing RM’s reflections and BTS’s journey.

The title track, Swim, embodies a mature BTS in their 30s and became a strongly personal favorite for RM, though it wasn’t the initial first-choice.

LA Song Camp and RM’s personal growth in his 30s influenced Swim’s creation, presenting it as a representation of BTS’s mature artistry after rigorous studio work.

RM hints at future live performances, noting he wants to perform Seongdeokdaewangsinjong bell sounds from No.29 in a concert someday.

Pre-comeback work included a July–August song camp and individual performances, with around 15 songs created and later narrowed down after gathering in Los Angeles.

Swim is framed as a breakthrough track that captures the group’s evolved artistry and justifies its selection as the title track despite initial uncertainty.

The album’s creation was collaborative and unplanned in parts, with seven members weighing multiple viewpoints, making song selection challenging yet successful.

The seven-member dynamics meant there was no single leader during the process, reinforcing their strong, protective bond.

The b-side Body to Body strategically leans toward the global pop market by weaving Korea’s Arirang folk song into the chant-along Tte-chang.