Music

Diplo Confirms Involvement in BTS’ Upcoming ARIRANG Album, Calls It “Craziest Album Ever”


Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

As anticipation builds for BTS’ upcoming album ARIRANG, international music producer Diplo has revealed his involvement in the project, describing it as the “craziest album ever” and one of the most significant collaborations of his career.


Speaking to media while attending the 2026 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at Pier 48 in San Francisco, Diplo expressed admiration for the global K-pop phenomenon, citing reports that ARIRANG has already crossed four million pre-orders. Calling BTS “the biggest band in the world,” he said working with the group was both humbling and creatively rewarding.

Diplo highlighted BTS’ hands-on involvement in the studio, praising their creativity, professionalism and musical versatility. He singled out youngest member Jung Kook for his vocal ability, noting his natural talent and precision without reliance on AutoTune. The producer also described the group as experienced artists who bring maturity and authenticity to their work.

The collaboration marks another chapter in Diplo’s long association with K-pop. He previously worked with Jung Kook on the track “Close to You” from the singer’s solo album Golden, and has collaborated with artists such as G-Dragon, CL, Jennie and BLACKPINK over the past decade.

While BTS and their label HYBE have not officially confirmed all collaborators on ARIRANG, industry speculation suggests contributions from several high-profile names. Singer-songwriter Jon Bellion has revealed studio sessions with the group, while legendary producer Max Martin is also believed to be involved. Longtime BTS collaborator Pdogg is expected to play a key role in shaping the album’s sound.

According to Diplo, ARIRANG could be the biggest project of his life. He credited BTS and the HYBE team for fostering a creative environment rooted in trust and artistic freedom.

The album ARIRANG, featuring at least 14 tracks, is scheduled for release on March 20 under HYBE’s BIGHIT MUSIC, and is widely expected to make a major impact on the global music landscape.

Entertainment

BTS’ Jimin Reacts as Jungkook Shares His “First Love” Story on Are You Sure?! Season 2


BTS’ Jungkook has once again melted the hearts of ARMYs around the world after opening up about his “first love” in a tender moment captured during the third episode of Are You Sure?! Season 2. Joined by Jimin, the duo spent a calm evening in the picturesque town of Zermatt, Switzerland — a setting that inspired honest conversations and nostalgic memories.

Jungkook’s First Crush: A Sweet Memory from His Trainee Years

In the episode, Jungkook reminisced about a time when he was in the 8th grade, participating in a month-long trainee program in the United States. It was there that he met a young girl — also a dance student — who unknowingly became his first crush.
“The first time I ever liked someone who wasn’t Korean was when I went to the US,” he shared. He fondly described her as “really pretty” and recalled seeing her often at the studio.

But despite the encouragement from his dance teacher, Jungkook never approached her.
“The teacher told me, ‘Jungkook, go talk to her just once!’ But I was like, ‘How? I don’t even speak English,’” he said, laughing at his younger self’s shyness.

Jimin’s Reaction: Teasing, Giggles & Brotherly Love

Jimin couldn’t contain his smile as Jungkook narrated the story — teasing him gently and prompting him with playful questions.
When Jimin asked what Jungkook would do if he were in the same situation today, the Golden Maknae confidently replied:
“Maybe I would go for it. I’ll say, ‘Hello, I like you!’”

The moment quickly went viral, with fans describing the exchange as “pure,” “precious,” and “so Jungkook.”

ARMY Reactions: Pure Chaos, Love, and Laughter

Social media erupted with heartwarming comments. One fan wrote,
“Young love stories like this show how genuine moments shape who he is today.”

Another ARMY jokingly added,
“Somewhere, a girl has no idea she was Jungkook’s first crush!”

The episode has since become one of the most talked-about instalments of Are You Sure?! S2, offering fans a rare glimpse into Jungkook’s teenage innocence and personality — and Jimin’s adorable reactions that made it even more special.