is back and fans are eagerly waiting for their idols to go on a tour after hearing the new album . However, the journey behind BTS’ comeback album ARIRANG was far from smooth, as the group is set to reveal in their new Netflix documentary BTS: The Return . Director Bao Nguyen has shed light on the intense creative process, revealing that the global superstars engaged in “serious debates” while shaping the album.
For ARMYs who are wondering about what the behind-the-scenes documentary would cover, the film will focus on music, but also touch a deeply personal side of the group, including moments of vulnerability.
BTS members argued about ARIRANG
Nguyen’s documentary offers a rare, intimate glimpse into BTS’ inner workings, moving beyond their perfectly polished public image. Speaking about the film, the director said that disagreements were a natural part of the creative process. “You’ll see that there’s serious debates about the directions of certain songs and the direction of the album,” he said, adding that capturing such moments required building trust with the group.
According to Nguyen, the authenticity seen on screen was not staged but earned over time. He explained that intimacy cannot be forced, and it was only after gaining the members’ confidence that they allowed the cameras into their most honest conversations. The documentary will show fans how BTS functions as a cohesive unit, each member brings distinct perspectives and tastes to the table.
RM is ‘philosophical’, Suga wonders if he will always be an idol
The documentary also explores philosophical and emotional thoughts within the group, particularly through conversations with leader Kim Nam-joon aka RM. Nguyen recalled a striking moment during filming when RM spoke about the Greek concepts of “chronos” and “kairos” – measured time versus lived, meaningful moments. The director called RM ‘philosophical and wise’.
Another significant theme in BTS: The Return is the passage of time and the members’ evolving identities. Having spent over a decade together, the group is now entering what Nguyen describes as a “2.0 phase.” Bao revealed that Suga openly questioned whether he would continue making music into old age when he is ‘old, grey’.
Other members, including Kim Tae-hyung aka V, also talk about on personal growth, pondering how much they have changed over the years. As per the director, V admits that things around him are changing, but questions if he has changed at all.
For the uninitiated, BTS: The Return is a Netflix documentary releasing March 27 that will show BTS’ return to music after their military service, focussing mostly on the creation of their fifth album, ARIRANG. It features ‘BTS’ footage of the members collaborating after 4 years in Los Angeles after their military service.