In this episode of Stanning BTS, we explore the namesake of the upcoming album, Arirang. We unpack "Arirang," a beloved Korean folk song and unofficial national anthem, and why it feels deeply intertwined with BTS’s identity. From their powerful "Arirang" opening performance at KCON 2016 in France to the song’s centuries-long history, we unpack everything you need to do know about the cultural and historical significance of this fascinating song. Through insights from Weverse Lives, album details, and BTS’s reflections on their roots, this episode is about culture, memory, and why BTS continuing to lean into who they are has always been their greatest strength. 💜

Check out the latest episode of Stanning BTS and be sure to subscribe and review wherever you listen. ARMY faithful can also pick up the Stanning BTS T-shirt, now available in two colors at the Consequence Shop. And as always, check out all the great shows on the Consequence Podcast Network!

Thanks for listening, and thanks for Stanning BTS!

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Episode Links:

Jinwoo Park’s TikTok

UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage

HYBE Boy’s video about Arirang

Linguistic & General History of Arirang

Article: “Before there was K-Pop, there was…the Arirang?” by Karis Lee

1st Arirang Recording

January 16th OT7 Weverse Live

In this reflective episode, we look back on BTS’s year—celebrating milestones, growth, and the moments that meant the most to ARMY—while also sharing how this past year shaped us as hosts and fans. Then we turn our eyes to the future, making bold (and hopeful) predictions for BTS’s 2026, including their highly anticipated album and the tour we’re all dreaming about. Join us for nostalgia, gratitude, and excitement for what’s next for BTS and ARMY. 💜

Check out the latest episode of Stanning BTS and be sure to subscribe and review wherever you listen. ARMY faithful can also pick up the Stanning BTS T-shirt, now available in two colors at the Consequence Shop. And as always, check out all the great shows on the Consequence Podcast Network!

Thanks for listening, and thanks for Stanning BTS!

Patreon: www.patreon.com/stanningbts

Follow our Social Media!

Facebook: Stanning BTS

Twitter: @stanningbtspod

Instagram: @stanningbtspodcast

Gmail: stanningbtspodcast@gmail.com

What do you get when you cross the emotional intensity of Stranger Things with the cinematic power of BTS? In this episode, we dive into the Upside Down for a fandom mashup you never knew you needed.

First, we reimagine the Stranger Things universe by assigning each beloved character their BTS counterpart. Then, we take it a step further: Which BTS tracks would perfectly score the most iconic Stranger Things scenes? We pair moments like Will communicating through Christmas lights, Max’s “Running Up That Hill” sequence, Eddie’s guitar solo, Eleven closing the gate, and more with powerful BTS songs. It’s a full cinematic reimagining of Hawkins—Bangtan style!

Before we get into it, we reflect on recent heartfelt comments from RM’s Weverse Live about BTS’s evolution, individuality, and the deep love that keeps them moving forward.

Whether you’re here for the fandom fun, the emotional parallels, or you just want to imagine the Snow Ball scene scored by “Hold Me Tight,” this episode is a nostalgic, heartfelt, and delightfully chaotic crossover celebrating storytelling, music, and the artists who carry us through both dark dimensions and bright comebacks!

Check out the latest episode of Stanning BTS and be sure to subscribe and review wherever you listen. ARMY faithful can also pick up the Stanning BTS T-shirt, now available in two colors at the Consequence Shop. And as always, check out all the great shows on the Consequence Podcast Network!

Patreon: www.patreon.com/stanningbts

Follow our Social Media!

Facebook: Stanning BTS

Twitter: @stanningbtspod

Instagram: @stanningbtspodcast

Gmail: stanningbtspodcast@gmail.com