BTS x Michael Jackson? Truth behind tribute collab revealed as BigHit releases official statement

Rumours about a collaboration between global K-pop group BTS and the late pop icon Michael Jackson have been firmly dismissed by BTS's agency, BigHit Music. What began as excitement over a potential posthumous tribute album quickly turned into confusion after claims surfaced that BTS had recorded one of Jackson’s unreleased tracks. BigHit has now released a statement making it clear that the group is not involved in any such project.

Origin of the Rumour

The speculation began after The Irish Sun published an interview with Paddy Dunning, owner of Grouse Lodge Studio in Ireland. Dunning claimed that BTS had recorded a song for a tribute album featuring unreleased Michael Jackson tracks from 2006. According to the report, Jackson had worked on music during a stay in Ireland, and some of these never-before-heard songs were being revived for a tribute project involving several international artists.

Dunning also mentioned a documentary in the works to highlight Jackson’s time in Ireland and added that he had been in touch with the Jackson estate, which had supposedly approved the idea. His comments sparked major online buzz, with fan forums and social media platforms reacting rapidly to the possibility of a BTS–Michael Jackson collaboration.

BigHit Responds to Speculation

Soon after the report spread, BigHit Music released a firm statement in both Korean and English on its official X (formerly Twitter) account. The agency clarified that BTS had not visited Grouse Lodge Studio and was in no way involved in the tribute project. The statement emphasized that BTS had neither recorded any Michael Jackson song nor taken part in any sessions related to the tribute album.

The agency stated that all seven members — RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook — are currently in Los Angeles working on their next group album, expected in early 2026. BigHit also acknowledged the fans’ support and reiterated its commitment to protecting the artists and addressing the spread of misinformation.

Michael Jackson Estate Link

Adding to BigHit’s statement, several fan-run Michael Jackson platforms noted that the Jackson estate had not authorized any collaboration with BTS. One fan had reportedly emailed the estate for clarification and received a reply confirming there was no such project involving the K-pop group.

This further strengthened the position that the circulating reports were based on unverified claims, not official announcements. The confusion appears to have come from misinterpreted media reports and unconfirmed comments.

While BTS has denied involvement, the tribute project itself has not been ruled out. Dunning claimed that a number of Jackson’s unreleased tracks — originally created with collaborators like Rodney Jerkins and Nephew — are part of the plan, along with a documentary on Jackson’s years in Ireland.