After waiting for those four years, I don’t think I was ever really prepared for what ARIRANG by BTS would feel like. Listening to it nonstop, and really giving each track the time to sink in, this did not feel like just another comeback for the group. This felt like a statement. This 5th album has everything. It has its roots, its growth, its emotions, and that signature ability to evolve while remaining true to itself. Each track has something different to offer, but it all feels connected, like one continuous story.
For this BTS ARIRANG Album Ranked list, I made sure to take five full days to listen to each track on repeat to really form my opinion instead of just reacting to it. And to be honest, ranking this album wasn’t easy at all, especially since there are no skips, only songs that hit differently depending on the situation. Some songs stood out to me right off the bat, some grew on me, and some even changed for me after watching the performances. And that’s what makes this album so special, this isn’t something you simply listen to, this is something you experience.
Disclaimer: This BTS ARIRANG album review and ranking are purely based on personal feelings and listening experience. I am not a sound director, producer, or any kind of technical expert. So, I am not going to give you any technical review. It’s purely based on personal feelings and experience. I would highly encourage everyone to read this with an open mind, as music and an album like this may be felt differently by everyone.
Credit: BigHit Music
BTS ARIRANG Album Ranked
Body to Body
Coming in at No. 1 on my list, Body to Body hands down has to be the track that represents this entire comeback for me. When I listened to this track, I knew right off the bat this wasn’t just another opening track. It felt like BTS was reintroducing themselves to the world with absolute confidence via ARIRANG.
I love how this track combines this old-school hip-hop feel that immediately made me think of their previous era with something much, much deeper and rooted. The inclusion of Gyeonggi Arirang has this sort of feel to it that’s both nostalgic and brand new at the same time. From the teaser, the beat of this track already has me hooked, but it’s even better in its entirety.
It’s not just a song, it’s like an experience, like I’m actually in the stadium with them. And then that bridge comes in, and I’m getting chills, okay? The traditional Arirang lyrics are impactful because it’s not just that they sound good, it’s that they actually mean something, they have roots to go back to, and it’s incredibly powerful. I think for me, this is a great way to start the album, it’s loud, it’s emotional, it’s meaningful, and to be honest, I couldn’t have asked for a better No. 1.
Credit: BigHit Music
NORMAL
Coming in at No. 2 on my list, Normal by BTS hits me in a completely different way, and it’s almost like it feels even heavier. In this song, BTS is really stripping everything back and letting you experience what their reality is like when they’re dealing with everything that comes along with being ARIRANG.
I think it’s awesome the way that they play with the idea of what’s “normal” for them versus what’s actually “normal.” The reality they’re describing is anything but, but the way that they deliver it is almost like it’s…accepted. I think the vocal line in this song is something that stands out to me, and the softness with which they deliver it is beautiful, especially considering the heaviness of the lyrics.
But what really makes Normal linger with me is how personal it feels. RM’s verse, especially that part with “runaway, pushin’ me, pullin’ me…”, really got to me the most, it’s just so raw, and it’s like they’re questioning their own thoughts and emotions, and then there’s Jimin’s verse, like “heavy is the head when you chasin’ true”, it’s like, another layer of questioning and emotions, not really giving answers, and I love how they took something chaotic and made it their strength, like “show me hate, show me love, make me bulletproof” is just like, totally like them, you know?
For me, I think this song is like the embodiment of their struggle, their struggle to be normal, and their strength as artists, and then to have it segue to “Like Animals” right after? It’s like, total emotional whiplash, and I’m here for it.
Credit: BigHit Music
FYA
Coming in at No. 3, FYA is loud, chaotic, and utterly different from BTS, and that’s why it shines. The song is embracing this level of high-octane sound that’s almost experimental in nature, with a plethora of fiery metaphors and an “everything lit” approach that just doesn’t apologise for anything it does. To be fair, it didn’t immediately resonate with me the first time around. It was a bit overwhelming at first, with too much going on for my taste, but once it clicked with me, it really clicked.
What changed everything for me, however, was when I saw the BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE ARIRANG on Netflix. That’s when FYA made sense because, honestly, it’s not meant to be listened to; it’s meant to be lived. The energy is insane, and it’s the kind that makes you want to get up and dance without even thinking about it. I was hooked replaying it after that, even though I was lowkey worried when I saw Kim Namjoon during the performance. But honestly, the song does exactly what it’s supposed to do: it takes you out of your own head, makes you forget everything else, and live in the moment.
Like Animals
Like Animals comes on the 4th. It is that song that feels like a haunting romance, and that’s what completely pulls me into its mood. For me, if yearning had a sound, it would be this track. BTS goes full-on alternative rock on this one, but it’s the emotion behind it all that really shines through. The idea of letting go, of giving in to something primal, feels almost overwhelming in a good way. The song dances along this line between desire and madness, like a relationship about to either fall apart or come together, and that’s what kept me engaged from start to finish.
Personally, what I think I love most about this song is the vocal work. I mean, it’s just insane. I think just having Min Yoongi start off the song with his vocals right away gives you a sense of what’s to come, something different. I’ve always loved when the rap line leans into singing because they’re just that good. Then you have Park Jimin and Jungkook bringing out that emotional aspect of the song to make the chorus even more impactful. I think one of the things I loved most about this song was just how well Jin stood out.
His voice sounds like it’s almost haunting in a sense, especially when you get to the ad-libs. I mean, it’s like a siren calling you in. And finally, you have Kim Taehyung’s deep voice just bringing everything back down to earth. While I think this song’s concept is great, I think what really makes this song memorable for me is just how well their voices convey a sense of being completely untamed.
they don’t know ’bout us
At No. 5 is they don’t know ’bout us. It is not loud or explosive, and I think that’s what makes it impact me differently. BTS isn’t trying to prove anything in this song; they’re just saying their piece. It’s a song about this divide between how people perceive them and who they really are, and I think I love that this feels so serene and strong in its message, almost like they’re in a space where they don’t feel like they need to prove anything anymore, and you can really hear that in every part of this song.
Credit: BigHit Music
Again, the vocals in this song are just incredible. Taehyung really shines with that voice that is just so rich and almost intoxicating; it just draws you in immediately, and then Jeon Jungkook just follows it so well and adds that smoothness that just makes the whole song complete. But one of my absolute favourite parts of the song has to be the part when J-hope just delivers that line about how people say that they have changed.
It feels like such a direct yet effortless clapback, in the sense that they just own it and say yes, we have changed, but for the best, of course. That is just what makes this song so incredible; it does not argue or explain, it just knows, and that makes it all the more powerful.
Aliens
Take the spot of number 6 is Aliens, and honestly, I think it’s one of the most impactful tracks for me from ARIRANG. I was immediately obsessed with it from the first listen, and I think BTS doesn’t hold back at all in this song. It’s bold, unapologetic, and straight-up confrontational in the best way, and I think the whole idea of them calling themselves “aliens” is just so impactful because it’s like they’re taking how they’ve been seen and treated over the years, especially in the industry, and turning it completely on its head and using it as power, and I think that’s amazing.
The actual sound of the track is hard, too, but I think it’s the message that really makes it special for me. What I think is really great is that it’s still so rooted in Korean culture while also speaking to a global narrative. There are just so many cultural references that are put into the song, and there’s this sense of pride that runs throughout the song, especially with the way that they incorporate the elements that are tied to their heritage and yet still manage to dominate the global sound.
The part with RM’s verse really resonated with me, especially with the mention of Kim Gu, and it just adds a level of depth beyond the music itself. To me, this song is the heart of the narrative that the album is trying to portray.
Hooligan
At No. 7, Hooligan is just pure adrenaline for me; this is the song on BTS’s ARIRANG that just won’t sit still. From the first beat of the song, the group enters with a loud, chaotic, and totally in-control sound that’s almost like they dare you to keep up with them. I love the unapologetic feel of this song, the heavy bass beat, the club feel, the whole “actin’ a fool again” attitude that just seems so deliberate and like they’re totally embracing this rebellious and dominant side of themselves. It’s not just confidence, it’s presence, and the song makes it clear that they’re not going anywhere.
And today, after watching their Spotify x BTS: SWIMSIDE event interview, in which they discussed how Jungkook actually came up with that iconic “ha-ha-ha” part in the rap. Well, knowing that the rap line actually found it tricky to do, but the way they play around with it just shows how well they actually executed this entire track. For me, this is one of those songs that’s made for performance; you don’t just listen to this; you actually watch this. The energy, the vibe, it’s actually that kind of track that instantly lets you get up and dance to it, and that’s exactly why this track deserves a spot on my list.
Also Read: Chiraiya Review: Strong Message, Stronger Performances, Slightly Weaker Storytelling
Merry Go Round
Merry Go Round comes in at number 8. If I were to describe it in one sentence, it feels like the child of Blue & Grey and Seesaw, but with its own form of heartbreak. BTS has really gone all in with their soft pop ballad style, and it works in a way that isn’t loud but unsettling. The idea of being stuck in something that you cannot escape, whether it be emotions, life, or your mind, feels like it runs throughout the entire track.
What makes this song linger in my mind is that it feels so honest and vulnerable. The lyrics about not being able to “get off” this merry-go-round really feel like more than a metaphor, like they’re talking about their own lives, stuck in this constant loop since they were so young. And I love how it ties in with that idea from Seesaw about sometimes you have to get off this loop to make it stop, but in this song, they’re unable to.
It’s like they’re stuck in this loop, going in circles, and even blaming themselves for it. And I love how emotional the vocals are, especially in the chorus, and then the rap verses just add another level of exhaustion and honesty to it.
SWIM
At No. 9, I know some people might side-eye me for putting the title track Swim a little lower down, but I think this just goes to show how great the BTS ARIRANG album truly is. The group has a way of making their b-sides just as hard-hitting, if not even more so, as some of their title tracks, but I think, for me, I’m not saying that title track isn’t great, because I truly do enjoy this song.
Credit: BigHit Music
It’s smooth, dreamy, and just has this effortless quality to it that makes it incredibly easy to get lost in. I think the whole theme of diving deep into something, of letting oneself sink into something meaningful, just feels incredibly beautiful.
What I also love, however, is the immersive quality of the entire concept, especially with the addition of the music video to create a new level of storytelling. The idea of crossing time and space, almost like entering a new world, definitely gives the song an edge emotionally, even beyond being a love song. There’s a certain level of nostalgia and surreal quality to it. The vocals, of course, are stunning, especially the way the chorus comes together, the softness of it, and the addition of each member’s own colour to it, making it incredibly easy to listen to it again and again.
2.0
Number 10th on the list is 2.0; it feels like one of the boldest statements the group has made yet, at least on ARIRANG. For me, this is BTS at their “we’re back” moment, but not in a way that feels like they’re looking back. Rather, it feels like they’re looking forward, like they’re reinvented. I love how it feels like the old Bangtan, at least in terms of their intensity, especially in the rap verses, but at the same time, it feels like they’ve refined it, like they’ve gone through everything and are now even better because of it.
I think what really stands out to me, though, is how it fits in with songs like FYA in that it’s got that same explosive quality to it, but it’s more purposeful in what it’s trying to say. The beat is insane, and I’m honestly obsessed with the “stop, ride” part. It’s just one of those things that gets stuck in your head. But then there’s the verse from Yoongi. This is the part for me.
There’s something about the way that he talks about their journey and what it takes to be them that just feels different. It’s confident, a little confrontational, but completely earned. This feels like a song that’s just reminding everyone that there’s no “next BTS” because they’re still here, just evolved.
Into the Sun
Into the Sun comes in at number 11 on the list, and to be honest, I think it’s one of the most heartwarming songs in the ARIRANG album by BTS. It’s that song for me, the one that wraps around you and stays with you long after it’s done. The band goes for an emotional pop sound in this track, and there’s just something about it that’s strong, the idea of moving forward no matter how dark things are.
I love the instrumental for this song; it’s got this build to it that makes the song feel larger and larger with each chorus. The vocal performance? They’re amazing here, the way they sing feels both gentle and full of feeling, and I’m immediately drawn in.
Credit: BigHit Music
What makes this song even more special for me is that it somehow seems like it was meant for BTS and ARMY alike. There is just something so pure and real about the way it discusses the idea of staying, running towards each other, and holding on through everything—it just feels so protective and reassuring at the same time. It does not ignore the darkness, but rather chooses to move forward from it, and that is just so powerful to me.
The way the song progresses towards the end, like it is reaching for the light, just makes me get chills every time. To be honest with you, this song just makes me realise how much this album really does have everything, and songs like this are just the reason why I feel so connected to it.
Please
With No. 12, Please is one of those softer, more romantic songs that is slowly growing on me with repeated listens. BTS is embracing a very heartfelt, almost pleading kind of love with this one, the kind of love that is choosing to stay and keep moving forward, no matter how much everything around it is trying to tear them apart. It immediately reminded me of that kind of Love Maze where love is far from perfect and isn’t always easy, but you fight for it anyway.
What I think I really like about Please is that it feels very sincere. I think that’s particularly true of the chorus. It’s a simple song, but there’s something about the way it’s sung that makes it more impactful, like there’s some desperation and devotion behind it. I think it’s a song about holding on, even on your worst days, and choosing each other despite all of that, and I think that’s just a really beautiful idea. While I think it’s a little lower on my list, I don’t think that takes away from just how meaningful I think this song is. I think it just shows me how many different emotions this album manages to convey so well.
One More Night
Coming in at number 13 on the list is One More Night. It’s got that dreamy, almost floating quality to it that gives it the feeling as though time has slowed down, and I must say, I love that. I think BTS really plays up the dreamy quality here, the kind of quality that you don’t even realise how deep you are in until the song is over and you want to listen to it again. It’s not about grand, epic moments, but more about holding on to a feeling for a little while longer, even though you know it’s not going to last.
The vocals are so soft and emotional, like a whispered secret that shouldn’t be known but somehow is. The whole “one more night” thing comes together in that manner; it’s about wanting to stay in a moment that’s just right, even if it’s not quite real or even if it’s not quite right. This song is like the thoughts that go through your head at night, when everything is a little softer and a little more honest. It’s soft, it’s nostalgic, and it’s a little haunting in the best way possible.
No. 29
At the last spot on my list is No. 29, and honestly, this was the hardest one to place, not only because it is not even a song per se, but an experience within the BTS’ ARIRANG album—but also because it does not have any actual lyrics, only silence and the sound of a bell ringing. As someone who is not Korean, it is understandable that I was confused by the actual meaning of the song when I first listened to it. However, once I learned that it was actually a reference to the Sacred Bell of Great King Seongdeok, everything about it suddenly made sense in a different light.
What really stuck with me, though, is the power of that simplicity. The fact that BTS is able to make people around the world listen to almost two minutes of just sound and silence without skipping it, there’s a lot to say about that. It makes something very ingrained in Korean history into a shared global experience. To me, it’s almost like how we respect and think about things like wonders from other cultures, and it’s kind of like that, you know? It’s at the bottom of my list, but it’s not like it’s less; there’s something about it that feels so different, like a quiet reminder of where it all started.
Do you guys agree with this ranking? Let us know your thoughts about BTS ARIRANG in the comments below.
