BTS's 'Arirang' album ranks among 2026's best as member RM becomes Korean cultural heritage ambassador

The fifth studio album 'Arirang' by South Korean boy band BTS has been included in several international best‑of‑2026 lists, including Complex (US), The Telegraph (UK), Rolling Stone (US) and NME (UK). Fans gathered at Mexico City’s National Palace to celebrate the album, and BTS held dual concerts in Busan before commencing a European tour with shows in Madrid and other cities.

Separately, BTS leader RM (Kim Nam‑joon) was appointed as a cultural heritage ambassador by the National Museum of Korea. Museum director You Hong‑June highlighted RM’s global influence and his long‑standing interest in Korean art and history. RM will promote Korean heritage worldwide and is slated to present a personal art exhibition at San Francisco’s Museum of Modern Art later this year.