- Max Martin and Jon Bellion are confirmed to work on BTS’ upcoming album.
- Ryan Tedder is also rumored to join the project.
- Fans speculate on the band’s 2026 album’s concept whether it will have a darker hip-hop concept, or will embody a bright pop or narrative-driven idea.
With less than three months remaining until BTS’ next album release, the boy band is at the center of intense internet speculation about the forthcoming project's sound, collaborators, and album topic. Making it one of the most-awaited K-pop projects of 2026.
BTS, on Jan 5 via Weverse, revealed that they will release a full-length album with 14 tracks. The album is outlined as an exploration of "the emotional journey and introspection experienced by the members over the years."
Max Martin and Jon Bellion to Collaborate with BTS Again?
As reported by The Korea Herald, during the month of December, in a podcast with Chris Williamson, Grammy-winning producer Jon Bellion announced his involvement in BTS' upcoming spring album along with Max Martin. Bellion stated that they had recently engaged in studio sessions for the group, with Martin helping to polish their track's structure and handle creative issues.
Martin had previously worked with BTS on their track My Universe featuring Coldplay, and was also the executive producer for Jin's solo hit The Astronaut. Martin’s work in the United States includes partnerships with The Weeknd on Blinding Lights and Ariana Grande on Into You. His production credits include these chart-topping songs, which set the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 No. 1s.
As for Bellion, he has worked with Jin on his song Another Level, Jungkook for his tracks Seven and Standing Next to You, as well as Jimin’s hit album Who was made with his expertise. Needless to say, Martin’s Midas touch is seen in the global music charts as Jungkook and Jimin continue to achieve success with these projects. Notably, Bellion’s credits also include Eminem and Rihanna’s The Monster and Maroon 5’s Memories.
Ryan Tedder Rumored to Be Part of the Project
Fans additionally think Ryan Tedder, the leader of OneRepublic, is also linked to BTS’ upcoming project. Tedder commented "L. F. G." on BTS’ album launch post made by Geffen Records and Interscope, who are the group’s distribution and marketing partners in the United States. As per industry reports, Tedder later shared more posts promoting the comeback.
Nevertheless, Big Hit Music has neither confirmed nor denied Tedder's involvement as of yet. Tedder has stated that he "produced music for BTS and Jimin," however, the only collaboration published thus far is Jimin's 2024 single Be Mine. Tedder has previously collaborated with other artists associated with HYBE like Tomorrow X Together, &Team, and KATSEYE. HYBE also announced in Feb 2025 that it will collaborate with Tedder to form a boy band based in the U.S., via auditions.
Fans Speculate on BTS’ Concept
Fans are speculating whether the group will return to their darker hip-hop roots, or will embody a bright pop or narrative-driven concept. Many fans have also drawn parallels to BTS' historic 2015 album The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, but the label is yet to confirm any thematic links.
