BTS Unveils New Album 'ARIRANG' with Emotional Track 'SWIM'

BTS has made a grand return with their new album 'ARIRANG', featuring the emotional track 'SWIM'. The music video showcases the members navigating life's challenges, with Lili Reinhart symbolizing their emotional struggles. The video quickly gained millions of views, highlighting the band's immense popularity. Discover the themes and artistic choices behind this captivating release.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 20, 2026, 11:35 IST

BTS's Anticipated Return with 'ARIRANG'

The K-pop sensation BTS has launched its latest album titled ARIRANG, generating significant excitement among fans eager for the band's return. Accompanying the album is the music video for the lead single, SWIM, which features all seven members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—navigating the complexities of life, emphasizing themes of self-love and resilience. Impressively, the official music video for SWIM garnered over 4 million views on YouTube within just half an hour of its release, setting a new record. The visuals depict the group aboard a ship, with the members taking on sailor personas, and they are joined by actress Lili Reinhart.

Introducing Lili Reinhart

Who is Lili Reinhart?

Lili Reinhart's involvement in SWIM has been a topic of speculation, especially after she shared the teaser on her social media platforms. Fans were correct in their assumptions about her participation. Reinhart is a prominent Hollywood actress, best known for her role as Betty Cooper in the hit series Riverdale, which catapulted her to international fame. Her filmography includes notable titles such as Hustlers, Chemical Hearts, and Look Both Ways. Additionally, she published a poetry collection titled Swimming Lessons: Poems in September 2020, exploring themes like love, anxiety, and heartbreak.

Lili Reinhart's Role in 'SWIM'

What does Lili Reinhart symbolize in SWIM?

In the music video for SWIM, Lili Reinhart does not portray a conventional character. Instead, she serves as a symbolic emotional presence that aligns with the song's themes. Rather than being a romantic interest or a central figure, she embodies the emotional struggles and yearnings of the BTS members, representing the feeling of being overwhelmed by emotions. Her appearances are ethereal, often depicted in dreamlike scenarios, such as behind glass or submerged underwater, creating a sense of unattainable connection. This portrayal reflects the internal battles faced by the group, symbolizing vulnerability, lost love, and deep-seated fears. Reinhart personifies the emotional burdens that the BTS members grapple with, illustrating what they are striving to overcome.

Chart Performance of 'SWIM'

About SWIM

The track SWIM has made a remarkable debut, securing the top spot on Apple Music's 'Today’s Top Hits' playlist. Additionally, the album ARIRANG dominates the MelOn 5 Minute Chart, with its tracks Body to Body, SWIM, Hooligan, Aliens, and FYA all ranking in the top five.