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BTS Performs New Single "SWIM" Amid Controversy on Fallon

3/26/2026

39 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

BTS returned to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on March 25–26, performing their new single "SWIM" and discussing the album ARIRANG.
The group consists of RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook.
A staff member's racially insensitive joke about North Korea sparked backlash.
The performances were filmed at the Guggenheim Museum.
They will begin a world tour next month.

History

Historical Context

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum opened in 1959, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright to showcase modern art. Since then, it has hosted diverse performances, including those by global artists like BTS. Recent controversies over cultural sensitivity echo past debates in the arts, highlighting the ongoing need for awareness in cultural exchanges as BTS embarks on their world tour.

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Story summary

BTS returned to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on March 25–26, performing their new single "SWIM" and discussing the album ARIRANG.
The group consists of RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook.
A staff member's racially insensitive joke about North Korea sparked backlash.
The performances were filmed at the Guggenheim Museum.
They will begin a world tour next month.

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