BTS: A Timeline of the Group's Eras

For new fans and old, join us as we embark on a quick visual recap of BTS’ key albums, from their debut with "2 Cool 4 Skool" to the beginning of a new journey with Proof.

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2 COOL 4 SKOOL 

This album introduced the world to BTS as a young boy band with roots in hip-hop and a desire to represent the ideals of young people all over the world. It kicked off the School Trilogy arc of BTS’ discography.

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DARK & WILD (2014)

BTS’ first full-length LP marked their next thematic arc: the youth. The album explored lost love and broken relationships. Tracks like “Danger” and “Rain” marked an examination of sadness and the anger that stems from not having your feelings reciprocated.

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THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MOMENT IN LIFE PT. 1 (2015)

BTS delivered a shift in artistry with this record, a risk that paid off as they finally rose to fame with “I Need U.” In addition to love and heartbreak, the album tackled themes of friendship, ambition, depression and more.

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WINGS (2016)

Wings evolved the theme of youth into adulthood with songs that embody a range of genres and address decadence, temptation and sin. The lead single “Blood, Sweat & Tears” allowed the group to dive into complex symbolism about life, death and what comes after.

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LOVE YOURSELF: HER (2017)

BTS’ domination in the West began here. With tracks like “DNA” and “MIC Drop,” the group wowed new  audiences with their sleek choreography and confident performances. The EP kicked off a brand new Hallyu Wave across the globe with BTS at the fore.

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MAP OF THE SOUL PERSONA (2019)

This EP marked the beginning of a brand new era: "Map of the Soul." BTS used Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung’s theories of the self to present their analysis of what it means to be human, what it means to be famous and what it means to be successful.

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Created in the wake of COVID-19, BE saw all seven members more involved in overall production than ever. The group created the EP’s concept development, composition and visual design, and the lead single “Life Goes On” assured fans that tomorrow will be better.

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BE (2020)

BTS' latest record is the group's first-ever anthology, comprising tracks spanning the past nine years, as well as three new songs. The lead single  "Yet to Come (The Most Beautiful Moment)" references BTS'  powerful The Most Beautiful Moment in Life series.

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PROOF (2022)

Photos: Courtesy of BIG HIT MUSIC