The K-pop phenomenon BTS has refuted speculative reports suggesting their involvement in a tribute album dedicated to Michael Jackson. Rumors circulated that the group was poised to record an unreleased Jackson track penned by the legendary singer at an Irish studio, allegedly during their 2006 visit to the country. Certain fan accounts echoed claims found in an initial report by The Sun, which named BTS among a stellar lineup of artists slated to reimagine tracks for the album—until the assertion was subsequently retracted.
In a clarificatory message posted on X, BTS emphasized that the members had not "engaged in any recording sessions at the mentioned location" and categorically denied any "association with the tribute album in any form or capacity." This statement from the band came after fervent fan accounts prematurely announced their participation in the project, with some even fabricating accounts of completed recording sessions.
The management of BTS swiftly stepped in to quell these unfounded rumors after fans had prematurely declared their involvement. According to The Sun, Jackson had spent time at Grouse Lodge Studios in County Westmeath in 2006, following his acquittal on child abuse charges. Studio proprietor Paddy Dunny revealed to the publication that Jackson was preparing for a much-anticipated comeback during his Irish sojourn but unfortunately passed away in 2009 before completing his work on the project.
A quotation attributed to Mr. Dunny—later excised from subsequent versions of the story—falsely claimed that BTS had visited the studio to record one of Jackson's unfinished compositions. Critics have likened BTS to the "King of Pop" himself, Michael Jackson, owing to their cultural footprint and global celebrity status. Furthermore, BTS was featured in a documentary commemorating the 40th anniversary of Thriller, one of Jackson's most iconic hits.
BTS is gearing up for their return next year, following a mandatory hiatus in 2022 imposed by South Korea's military service regulations.
