BTS Comeback Sparks Political Debate: Seoul Lights Up Red, Fans Protest
The highly anticipated BTS comeback concert is just around the corner, but a decision to illuminate Seoul in red has ignited controversy. With only two days until the event, fans are questioning the choice of color, given BTS’ iconic purple association and the potentially sensitive political implications in the lead-up to local elections.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that 15 of the city’s prominent landmarks – including Sebitseom, Cheonggyecheon, Seoul Botanic Park, N Seoul Tower, and Lotte World Tower – would be bathed in red light for two hours starting at 7:30 p.m. on both Friday, the album release date, and Saturday, the day of the Gwanghwamun performance.
This move has been met with immediate backlash from the BTS Army. The color red is strongly associated with a major opposition party, sparking speculation about potential political motivations, especially with nationwide local elections looming in June. Many fans feel this overshadows BTS’ signature color, purple.
The BTS fandom, known as Army, has actively voiced its concerns on social media. Using hashtags like #BTSisPurple, they are protesting the city’s decision and advocating for the group’s signature color to be recognized.
Amidst the escalating controversy, BTS’ agency, Hybe, released a statement on Wednesday clarifying that red is indeed the key color for the group’s new album, “Arirang,” and that the company itself requested the city to utilize this color. The agency urged the public to refrain from attributing political interpretations to the decision.
BTS has been on hiatus since 2022 as each of the seven members began their mandatory military service. Having completed their service as of June 2025, the group is making their long-awaited return with the new album “Arirang,” marking their first release in four years. Their comeback performance is scheduled to take place in Gwanghwamun on Saturday.
Following the Seoul performance, BTS will embark on an international schedule. On Monday, they are scheduled to appear at “Spotify x BTS: Swimside” in New York, where they will perform their new single. They will also be featured on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on March 25 and 26.
yoonseo.3348
