(ATTN: ADDS fans’ remarks, photos, byline)
By Lee Haye-ah and Kim Hyun-soo
The highly anticipated BTS comeback concert celebrating their new album “Arirang” is set to begin at 8 p.m. in Seoul, but dedicated fans have already been waiting for hours. For many, the wait is a small price to pay after a three-year hiatus from full-group activities, as expressed by a fan who travelled from Denmark.
“We’ve been waiting here since 6 a.m. because we weren’t able to get tickets,” explained the 30-year-old Danish fan, accompanied by a friend. “We hope this spot will give us a better view of the stage than some of the seated areas.”
She added that her decision to participate in a working holiday program in South Korea was partly inspired by BTS.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing all the members together again. I’ll be spending the wait listening to their new album,” she shared.
Two friends from the Philippines journeyed to South Korea specifically for the momentous occasion. They arrived early, waking up at 4 a.m. to secure a prime viewing location near the stage.
Prepared for the long day ahead, they brought essential supplies including food, water, and hand warmers, considering the chilly morning and evening temperatures.
“We waited four years for their comeback, so 12 hours is nothing,” one of them stated, mentioning their post-concert plans to explore various BTS-related landmarks throughout the country.
Authorities estimate that approximately 260,000 people will gather in the area spanning from Gwanghwamun Square, where the stage is erected, to Sungnye Gate, located over a kilometer away.
Security measures are stringent, with plans to deploy around 15,000 safety management personnel, including approximately 6,700 police officers. Bus and subway lines have also been partially rerouted.
Alejandra Bernal, a 28-year-old from Mexico residing in South Korea, positioned herself further back from the stage, close to the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, with the hope of watching the concert on a screen.
“We don’t have tickets, but we plan on staying here until 9 p.m.,” she said, identifying herself as a dedicated fan since 2019.
Pamela Prado, who flew in from Bolivia specifically to experience the concert, understood that she may not get a close-up view of the group.
“It feels like they are right here in front of us… I’m going to cry a lot,” she expressed.
