Academics from 10 Nations to Discuss BTS's New Chapter and Hallyu's Future

Academics from ten nations are converging in South Korea to dissect the evolving influence of K-pop sensation BTS and chart the future trajectory of the Korean Wave, or Hallyu. The Fifth BTS: A Global Interdisciplinary Conference, themed "The Next Generation Hallyu & BTS," will convene at the International Convention Center, Jeonbuk National University, from July 2 to July 3, 2026.

This significant gathering will host 50 presenters from South Korea, the United States, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Mongolia, the Czech Republic, Canada, Australia, and Japan. They will share research findings on BTS's multifaceted impact, spanning diverse academic fields. The conference takes place as BTS embarks on a new career phase following the release of their latest album, "ARIRANG."

Professor Lee Ji-haeng of Jeonbuk National University's K-entertainment department will deliver the opening address. His speech will explore the cultural significance of BTS's new chapter, particularly as all members complete their mandatory military service. He will also examine how fandom, digital technology, global communication, and civil society engagement collectively shape BTS's international influence.

Over two days, the conference will host 11 academic sessions. These sessions will delve into a wide array of topics, including fan communities, digital technology, philosophy, sustainability, and religion. A key highlight will be an interview with director Bao Nguyen, creator of the Netflix documentary "BTS: The Return." Nguyen has described BTS's hiatus for military service and subsequent reunion as a modern "Odyssey," emphasizing his documentary's aim to avoid oversimplifying Korean culture or the BTS phenomenon for Western audiences.

Further sessions will explore the evolution of K-pop globally, examining the interplay between local and global identities through BTS and language. The conference will also address the growth of HYBE, the global group behind BTS, analyze Hallyu's influence in Mongolia, and investigate the use of artificial intelligence within fan communities. A special session will focus on Hallyu's sustainability in the post-Korean Wave era, including the role of generative AI on platforms like TikTok and the emergence of new digital creative forms. The event will also feature a screening of the documentary "Forever We Are Young," which chronicles the lives of BTS fans, followed by a discussion with director Grace Lee and academics. The conference will conclude with a pansori performance, a traditional Korean opera, interpreting songs from the "ARIRANG" album, symbolizing the connection between Korean cultural identity and BTS's evolving journey.

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Odyssey