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The excitement around BTS’ return is growing louder by the day, and it’s not just fans feeling the buzz — even HYBE, their agency, is celebrating it in the most heartwarming way. As the boys begin to complete their military service, HYBE lit up its main building with a special projection that simply said, “WE ARE BACK.” But it wasn’t just the words that got people emotional. The letters “W” and “A” in the phrase were styled using the official BTS and ARMY logos, which felt like a quiet but powerful tribute to the connection between the group and their fans — a reminder that they’ve always been walking this journey together, even while apart.
This isn’t the first time HYBE has used its building to honor BTS and their relationship with ARMY. In the past, phrases like “아포방포 (APOBANGPO)” — meaning “ARMY forever, Bangtan forever” — were also projected during key moments. That particular phrase, which Jungkook once coined back in 2019, has remained a symbol of loyalty and love within the fandom. But this year’s message hits differently, especially since five of the seven members are returning almost back-to-back this month. RM and V are due back on June 10, followed by Jimin and Jungkook on June 11, and finally SUGA on June 21. It’s not just the 12th anniversary of their debut — it’s also the moment their full group presence begins to feel whole again.
Fans, naturally, were quick to spot the change. Pictures of the building lit up with “WE ARE BACK” spread instantly across social media. The phrase alone sparked a tidal wave of emotion, with people calling it one of the most powerful messages HYBE has ever put up. Many fans shared how just seeing it brought them to tears, because after all the months of waiting and supporting from afar, this feels like the homecoming everyone has been dreaming of. Some even joked (or maybe half-meant it) that HYBE should just go ahead and paint the entire building purple now.
As everything starts falling into place — the group reunion, the anniversary, the warm gestures — this season feels like a true turning point for both BTS and ARMY. It’s the kind of chapter that reminds everyone why they’ve held on for so long. Because in the end, no matter how far or how long they’re apart, they always find their way back. And this time, they’re coming back stronger, prouder, and together.