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BTS Announces New Album 'Face' as Part of 'Kingdom: Labyrinth' Project

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, January 15th 2026 at 11:24 GMT by KIRO-TV

Seoul, South Korea - January 15th, 2026 - In a move eagerly awaited by fans worldwide, BTS has officially announced the title of their next album: 'Face.' This release is a cornerstone of the group's ambitious 'Kingdom: Labyrinth' project, signaling a deliberate course correction towards a sound and thematic core that longtime ARMY members will instantly recognize.

The 'Kingdom: Labyrinth' initiative, initially hinted at in 2025, represents a significant evolution in BTS's artistic strategy. While the group has consistently pushed creative boundaries and experimented with diverse musical styles, 'Kingdom' aims to weave a more complex and interconnected narrative arc across several releases. Each album within the 'Kingdom' series, including 'Face,' contributes to a larger exploration of themes surrounding identity, resilience, and the individual's place within a collective.

A Homecoming to Fundamental Themes

The selection of 'Face' as the album title itself is imbued with meaning. It represents a poignant return to the introspective and vulnerable themes that defined BTS's early career. While the group's later works incorporated sophisticated production and broader social commentary, 'Face' is intended to strip things back, focusing on the raw, often difficult, journey of self-discovery. This is a conscious decision by the group, recognizing a desire amongst their fanbase to reconnect with the essence of what initially captivated them - the honesty and vulnerability of the members' personal narratives.

Sources close to the group have indicated that 'Face' will delve into the complexities of perception - both how the world views BTS and, more importantly, how BTS views itself. In a world saturated with images and online personas, the concept of 'Face' takes on added layers of significance. It's about confronting facades, embracing imperfections, and ultimately, understanding the multifaceted nature of identity.

The 'Kingdom: Labyrinth' Project: A Discographic Turning Point

'Kingdom: Labyrinth' is widely considered a pivotal chapter in BTS's already impressive discography. The project signifies a departure from the single, blockbuster album releases of their previous era. Instead, 'Kingdom' adopts a more episodic approach, allowing for deeper thematic exploration and more intricate storytelling. This shift reflects the group's own maturation as artists and their desire to challenge themselves creatively. The 'Labyrinth' component of the project title suggests a deliberate weaving of intricate narratives and symbolic connections between the individual albums, creating a richer, more immersive experience for listeners. Fans can anticipate Easter eggs, recurring motifs, and interconnected storylines that reward repeated listening and careful analysis.

While details regarding 'Face' remain purposefully scarce, the anticipation is palpable. Big Hit Music, BTS's management agency, has promised further announcements in the coming weeks, likely including tracklist details, teaser imagery, and potentially even snippets of the music itself. The delay in a confirmed release date has only fueled the speculation, with many fans theorizing a release sometime in early 2026 to capitalize on the momentum generated by the title announcement.

What to Expect from 'Face'

Based on early indicators and statements from the group, fans can expect:

• A Return to Core Sound: A move away from some of the more experimental sounds of recent projects, leaning towards a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop that characterized BTS's early work.
• Introspective Lyrics: Expect lyrics that delve into personal struggles, self-doubt, and the process of overcoming adversity.
• Visual Storytelling: Big Hit Music is renowned for its cohesive visual aesthetic, and 'Face' will undoubtedly feature striking imagery and music videos that complement the album's themes.
• Deeper Narrative Connections: 'Face' will be intrinsically linked to the overarching narrative of 'Kingdom: Labyrinth,' building upon themes established in previous releases and hinting at what's to come.

BTS's announcement of 'Face' marks not just the arrival of a new album, but a symbolic return to the group's foundational values while simultaneously embracing a bold new chapter in their ever-evolving artistic journey.