Even before their long-awaited full-group return, BTS is already making headlines. As anticipation builds for their new album ARIRANG and a massive world tour, the global supergroup has added two more Japanese streaming certifications to its ever-growing list—further cementing its dominance in one of the world’s toughest music markets.
New RIAJ Certifications Confirmed
On January 30, Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) officially awarded:
- Platinum certification to Yet To Come for crossing 100 million streams
- Gold certification to Love Maze for surpassing 50 million streams
The announcement was confirmed by BigHit Music, BTS’ management company. With this update, the seven-member group—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—now boasts 16 Platinum and 48 Gold certifications in Japan based on streaming alone.
Why These Songs Matter
Yet To Come, released in 2022, served as the title track of BTS’ anthology album Proof, a 48-track collection that reflected on the group’s journey and future. Meanwhile, Love Maze comes from Love Yourself: Tear, one of BTS’ most emotionally resonant eras, released in 2018.
That both tracks—years apart—are still pulling massive streaming numbers highlights BTS’ rare longevity and emotional hold over listeners in Japan.
How RIAJ Certifications Work
RIAJ awards streaming certifications based on cumulative streams within Japan:
- Gold: 50 million+ streams
- Platinum: 100 million+ streams
- Diamond: 500 million+ streams
The certifications are updated monthly, making them a strong indicator of sustained listener engagement rather than short-term hype.
Japan: A Crucial BTS Stronghold
Japan remains one of the most competitive music markets globally, where physical sales and streaming performance both matter. BTS’ repeated success across multiple eras has turned the group into a long-term force rather than a passing trend. Earlier in 2025, The Truth Untold (feat. Steve Aoki) also earned Gold status, pushing BTS to a record-breaking milestone for any K-pop act in the country.
Comeback Countdown Begins
All eyes are now on March 2026, when BTS is set to reunite fully with the release of ARIRANG, followed closely by the ARIRANG World Tour.
The tour will kick off in April with three shows at Goyang Stadium in South Korea, before heading to Japan for two nights at Tokyo Dome on April 17 and 18. From there, the group will travel across North America, Europe, the UK, and beyond.
Final Words
Before even stepping back onto the stage as OT7, BTS is already reminding the industry why its comeback matters. These latest RIAJ certifications aren’t just numbers—they’re proof of lasting connection, patience, and loyalty from ARMYs in Japan. And if this is how the comeback buildup looks, March 2026 might just mark another historic chapter for BTS.
