The global phenomenon, K-pop supergroup BTS, has officially kicked off their highly anticipated world tour.
BTS held their “BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG'” at the Goyang Comprehensive Stadium on the 11th. Following a successful first show on the 9th, the group is meeting fans again on the 11th and 12th. Approximately 132,000 fans are expected to attend the three-day concert series.
Previously, BTS released their 5th full-length album, “ARIRANG,” on the 20th of last month, followed by a grand comeback performance at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on the 21st. The one-hour stage left fans wanting more, significantly heightening anticipation for this full-scale concert tour.
Notably, this world tour marks the group’s first full-member performance in approximately four years since the highly successful “BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE,” which concluded in April 2022, adding significant meaning to the event.
As a torch, reminiscent of an Olympic flame, arrived at the center of the stage before the main performance, the members of BTS made their grand appearance. They delivered a powerful opening with “Hooligan,” followed by consecutive performances of “Aliens” and “Run BTS,” igniting the stadium with thunderous cheers.
Jungkook remarked, “The weather is splendid today, unlike yesterday. It might be chilly, but we’ll make sure to heat things up.” This was a nod to the previous day’s concert on the 9th, which saw heavy rain, with all attendees watching the show in raincoats.
V shared, “It’s been a long time since we’ve done a 360-degree stage. It feels so good to be surrounded by ARMYs (fandom name).” Jimin added, “It’s been four years since the ‘ARIRANG’ album and six and a half years since our last concert tour. We tried to incorporate many new elements. This stage is also a first, how do you like it?” He continued, “We’ve prepared diligently, so we hope you have a great time.”
Suga stated, “We’ve prepared a lot to show you even newer sides of ourselves. It might feel unfamiliar, but please enjoy it to the very end.”
A major highlight of this concert is the 360-degree stage, inspired by Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, a historic Korean architectural landmark, fitting the theme of the new album ‘ARIRANG’. Designed for fans to enjoy the performance from all directions, this setup bridges the distance with the audience, enhancing immersion. Furthermore, the stage floor is patterned after the Taegeukgi (Korean flag), with extended stages branching out, taking inspiration from the four trigrams of Geomgon-gamri.
The concert also showcased a richer tapestry of Korean cultural elements. Performances incorporated modern interpretations of traditional Korean ‘tal’ (masks) by dancers, large fabric props inspired by ‘Seungmu’ (a traditional Buddhist dance), and a captivating ‘Ganggangsullae’ circle dance featuring LED ribbons reminiscent of flags and ‘Sangmo’ (spinning hats). These artistic choices flawlessly captured the essence and identity of the ‘ARIRANG’ tour.
The setlist was equally impressive, packed with both new tracks and beloved hits. From the new album, title track “SWIM,” “2.0,” and “FYA” were performed, alongside global chart-toppers like “Butter,” “Dynamite,” “MiC DROP,” and “FIRE.” These iconic songs brought the energy of the venue to a fever pitch. The members commanded the stage with powerful performances and solid live vocals, while fans responded with enthusiastic sing-alongs and cheers, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
During the “IDOL” performance, in particular, the members marched along the stadium track, making eye contact and interacting closely with their fans. Beyond the main stage, the members moved closer to the audience, sharing their vibrant energy. They also delivered impromptu stages for “TAKE TWO” and “DNA,” making the Goyang stadium reverberate with excitement.
Suga shared his thoughts, “The weather was great, and everyone seemed to have high energy, which made it incredibly enjoyable. I hope tomorrow’s show is just as exciting as today’s and helps you release all your stress. Thanks to you, I’m leaving with wonderful memories.”
Jimin asked, “Did you all have fun today?” and added, “Since it’s not raining, I can see all of you so well. Thank you so much for waiting, I missed you all greatly. Thank you. Just as we prepared for this tour, we will continue to work hard to deliver great stages and music to you. We would be grateful if you always stay by our side. We will be by your side going forward too.”
RM expressed profound gratitude, “Thank you so much for waiting for us and for your unwavering support,” performing a deep bow. He continued, “What’s important hasn’t changed. What’s important is that the seven of us decided to do this together, and another is that our feelings for all of you are genuine.” He emphasized, “We have never taken a single moment lightly. Jungkook was 15 when I first saw him, and now he’s 30. All of us are over thirty. These are decisions we made, decisions made to stay together for a long time, so please trust us more, kindly watch our journey of change, and enjoy it. Thank you. We will work hard.”
Jungkook added, “I’m glad we finished without anyone getting hurt. I feel really good.” He elaborated, “Recently, while doing a live broadcast, I hope you all know that no matter the situation, my actions and my heart are always sincere. I will continue to work until my body breaks. If you wait for us, I promise to become a fantastic artist who repays you with diverse performances.”
Meanwhile, BTS’s ‘ARIRANG’ world tour, beginning in Goyang, will span 85 shows across 34 cities in regions including Tokyo, North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. This sets a new record for the highest number of shows for a single tour by a Korean artist. With additional performances planned in Japan and the Middle East, the tour’s scale is expected to expand even further.
