Numerous roads closed, hundreds of thousands of fans on site and millions watching on Netflix: the K-pop band’s comeback is a mega event.
After several years out of the spotlight, they are back with a spectacular comeback. On Saturday, K-pop band BTS staged a massive show in Seoul, triggering a global fan event.
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In the South Korean capital, the crowds were overwhelming. Around 22,000 fans secured free seats directly in front of the stage, while tens of thousands more followed the concert on giant screens in the surrounding area. Overall, the authorities estimated that some 260,000 people were heading towards the venue, one of the city’s best-known historic squares.
Because of the free open-air event, police cordoned off large parts of the Gwanghwamun district. Roads were closed, parts of the underground and bus services were suspended, and museums and shops had to shut. Around 15,000 police officers and security staff were deployed.
Crowd chant "BTS! BTS!" as Gwanghwamun Square packed
Even before the show began, fans in colourful outfits flooded into the city, took selfies with their tickets and held aloft the trademark light sticks of the BTS "ARMY" (as the band’s fan community calls itself). The crowd chanted "BTS! BTS!" as the main road leading to Gwanghwamun Square was packed solid. The historic gate was lit up in rainbow colours before the show began, while the stage was prepared with an elaborate installation and lighting effects.
Those who could not be there in person could still watch the concert live: Netflix broadcast the show to 190 countries worldwide. Millions of fans followed the performance online.
Worldwide attention as millions watch stream
The band delivered an energetic performance despite physical limitations. Rapper RM, who had an injured ankle, at times performed seated on a stool. "It has been a long journey but now we are finally here!" he said, according to AFP.
The long-awaited mega-comeback is fuelling huge hype around the world, and even the megastars themselves are not immune. The band admitted they had been nervous before going on stage. Band member J-Hope told fans, "There were moments when we wondered whether we had been forgotten. Or whether you would still remember us."
Singer Jimin added, "We are not special people. We are afraid every time. But we believed that our sincerity would reach you."
New album breaks records
The new album "ARIRANG", released on Friday, marks another milestone. According to the label, it sold nearly four million copies on its first day. Spotify reported five million pre-saves, a record for a K-pop act. It was also the most-streamed album in a single day so far this year.
With its title, the album references a traditional Korean folk song that is often regarded as an unofficial national anthem. The 14 tracks blend rap, pounding beats and experimental elements, complemented by collaborations with international artists.
Band hiatus due to military service
The band temporarily stepped back in 2022 because all seven members had to complete their compulsory military service in South Korea. The service usually lasts between 18 and 21 months and is a key part of the country’s defence system, particularly in view of North Korea.
The comeback therefore comes after an almost four-year break, once the last member finished his service in June 2025.
But the concert in Seoul is only the beginning: a major world tour is already planned. It is due to start on 9 April in Goyang in South Korea and end around eleven months later in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. A total of 82 shows are scheduled in 34 cities across 23 countries.
All the signs already suggest that this tour too will set new benchmarks, like so much of what BTS have achieved in recent years.
