Exploring BTS's ARIRANG World Tour: Exclusion of 'Home' and 'Love Maze' and the Impact of Composer Bobby Jung
BTS is gearing up for their highly anticipated ARIRANG World Tour, preparing a setlist that will feature their biggest hits, new music, and nostalgic tracks. However, fans can expect that two fan-favorite songs, "Home" and "Love Maze," will not be included in their upcoming performances. As the K-pop legends prepare for their comeback after a nearly 4-year hiatus, anticipation is at an all-time high, with record-breaking pre-orders for their fifth album ARIRANG and sold-out shows across North America, Europe, and the UK.
The decision to exclude "Home" and "Love Maze" from BTS's setlist stems from a troubling history involving composer Bobby Jung, also known as Jung Dae-Wook. In 2020, Jung was accused of illegal filming and s*xual assault, leading to tragic consequences for the victim. Despite pleading not guilty, Jung faced legal repercussions in 2022, including a year in jail and a ban from working with vulnerable populations. As a result of Jung's involvement in the creation of these songs, HYBE censored several tracks, including "Home" and "Love Maze," from BTS's performances.
Jung Dae-Wook, who has collaborated with BTS and TXT, faced legal consequences for his actions, prompting HYBE to remove songs associated with him from BTS's performances. The exclusion of "Home" and "Love Maze" from BTS's upcoming shows reflects the company's commitment to addressing the issue of s*xual assault and supporting victims of such crimes.
BTS's upcoming album, ARIRANG, is set to feature 14 tracks and marks the group's first full-group project since completing their military service. The album, which will be released after nearly four years, showcases the members' involvement in the songwriting and production process, allowing them to express their personal experiences and emotions. With the album's release date set for March 20, 2026, fans are eagerly awaiting BTS's return to the music scene and the start of their world tour on April 9, 2026, in Goyang, South Korea.
In conclusion, BTS's upcoming comeback and ARIRANG World Tour promise to be monumental events in the music industry. While fans may miss hearing "Home" and "Love Maze" during the performances, the decision to exclude these songs reflects a commitment to addressing important issues and supporting victims of s*xual assault. As BTS prepares to make their highly anticipated return, the excitement among ARMYs continues to build, setting the stage for a historic comeback for the K-pop superstars.