#bts

BTS Returns to Seoul with Global Fanbase After Four-Year Hiatus Tens of thousands of fans gathered in Seoul to witness the return of the South Korean boy band after a four-year absence, proving their enduring global appeal despite the passage of time. The event, held at Gwanghwamun Square, drew attendees from across the world, including families, fans, and industry figures, all united by their admiration for the group. The concert marked a significant moment for BTS, who had paused their activities to fulfill military service obligations, and highlighted the deep connection between the artists and their devoted fanbase, known as ARMY. The Zubillaga family from Veracruz, Mexico, traveled over 15 hours to attend the event, bringing their daughters Renata, 15, and Fernanda, 11, as a birthday gift. Despite missing out on world tour tickets, they joined the crowd in Seoul, where Renata expressed her excitement about the band’s new album, Arirang. Her favorite member, Jung Kook, was a shared choice among the family. Similarly, Nani Cruz, a 30-year-old from Guam, emphasized the emotional significance of seeing BTS reunite, describing the experience as a fulfillment of ARMY’s longing. The concert’s scale and organization reflected BTS’s global influence, with over 22,000 free seats allocated for the viewing zone and additional viewers tuning in via live streams on Netflix. Maggie Kang, a Korean-Canadian filmmaker who recently won an Oscar for KPop Demon Hunters, praised the event’s ability to bring people together in public space, underscoring South Korea’s capacity to host such a massive gathering. Yu Hye-sun, a Seoul office worker, joined friends she met at BTS’s last concert before their military service, highlighting the group’s role in fostering international fan communities.#seoul #bts #gwanghwamun_square #army #zubillaga_family

Pop megastars BTS electrify historic centre of Seoul with comeback concert The heart of Seoul transformed into a vibrant sea of purple on Saturday, a color that dominated everything from towering billboards to the Han River’s drone light displays. The city’s landmarks, posters, and even fans’ clothing were splashed with the K-pop group’s signature hue, signaling the return of BTS after a three-year hiatus due to mandatory military service. The world’s most popular band was back, and their fans, known as the "Army," were ready to celebrate. Veronica and Amanda, who traveled from the U.S. for the event, described the atmosphere as electric. Though the concert had not yet begun, the presence of BTS was undeniable. The group’s members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook—had not yet appeared, but their influence was everywhere. The Army, dressed in matching purple hanboks, cheered and waved light-sticks, their excitement palpable. For many, the break had been a long wait, but the anticipation was finally paying off. As the sun set, the square erupted with chants of the members’ names. A solemn toll of the Divine Bell of King Seongdeok echoed through Gwanghwamun Square, a moment that grounded the spectacle in Korea’s rich history. The bell’s sound, part of the group’s new album Arirang, marked the beginning of the performance. RM greeted the crowd in Korean and English, declaring, “We are back,” before the band took the stage. The setup resembled a triumphal arch, setting the tone for their first full track from the album, Body to Body, which blended their signature sound with Korea’s iconic folk song Arirang. The concert featured a mix of new and old hits, with tracks like Butter, MIC Drop, Dynamite, and Mikrokosmos igniting the crowd.#netflix #seoul #bts #gwanghwamun_square #army

BTS' New Album 'Arirang' Debuts with Record-Breaking Views The K-pop group BTS has released their highly anticipated return album, Arirang, marking their first project in four years. The album’s lead single, "SWIM," has already garnered over 14 million views on YouTube within six hours of its release, showcasing the immense popularity and dedication of their fanbase, ARMY. The track’s rapid ascent to such a high viewership count underscores the group’s enduring influence in the global music scene. The album’s release coincides with a major live event, BTS The Comeback Live | Arirang, which is set to broadcast the group’s performance and behind-the-scenes content. Fans are encouraged to tune in for an immersive experience that highlights the creative process and emotional depth of the new work. The event also serves as a platform for BTS to connect with their audience, offering a glimpse into the challenges and inspirations behind the album. Mashable has provided a detailed guide for viewers interested in accessing the live stream, ensuring fans can follow along with the latest updates and exclusive content. The guide includes information on streaming platforms, time zones, and additional resources for those eager to engage with the group’s comeback. The release of Arirang has sparked widespread excitement among fans and critics alike, with many praising the group’s ability to consistently deliver innovative and emotionally resonant music. As the album continues to gain traction, it reinforces BTS’ status as one of the most influential acts in contemporary music. The combination of their artistic evolution and the fervor of their fanbase ensures that Arirang will remain a significant cultural moment in the K-pop industry.#bts #arirang #mashable #bts_the_comback_live_arirang #army

BTS Returns with 'ARIRANG' Live Performance: A Historic Comeback BTS made a triumphant return to the global stage with their "THE COMEBACK LIVE" event, streamed live on Netflix, marking their first full performance together in nearly four years. The group, now fully reunited after completing their mandatory military service, showcased their latest album ARIRANG and reaffirmed their status as cultural icons. The event took place in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, a historic location with deep symbolic meaning, and featured a blend of high-energy performances, emotional moments, and a celebration of their journey as artists and Koreans. The concert opened with "Body to Body," the first track from ARIRANG, which encapsulated the group’s identity as they declared, "Born in Korea, playing for the world." The members, including RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook, took the stage with their signature swagger, greeted by a wave of cheers from fans in Seoul and around the world. The song’s pulsating beat and powerful lyrics resonated with the audience, who had waited nearly four years for this moment. RM’s opening line, "안녕 Seoul, we’re back," was met with overwhelming applause, signaling the start of a night that would be remembered for its emotional depth and musical brilliance. The choice of Gwanghwamun Square as the venue was both symbolic and practical. The square, a historic landmark with ties to Korea’s Joseon dynasty, also holds political and cultural significance as a site of protests and public gatherings. The stage design incorporated the square’s iconic Gwanghwamun gate and surrounding mountains, creating a visual backdrop that honored the group’s roots while highlighting their global reach.#netflix #bts #arirang #gwanghwamun_square #the_comeback_live

BTS Returns with Fifth Album Arirang, Anchored in Korean Identity and Global Evolution After a four-year hiatus following their mandatory military service, the seven-member K-pop group BTS has officially returned with their fifth album, Arirang. The album, named after the traditional Korean folk song that has long symbolized the nation’s collective history, marks a pivotal moment in the group’s evolution. It reflects their identity in 2026, their roots in Korean culture, and their navigation of a global pop landscape that demands both authenticity and adaptability. The album’s title, Arirang, is deeply tied to Korea’s cultural heritage. The folk song, which dates back centuries, has been passed down through generations in countless regional variations, each carrying the emotions of the Korean people—joy, sorrow, longing, and resilience. Historically, Arirang has been a song of resistance during Japan’s colonial rule and a symbol of hope for reunification after the Korean War. Today, BTS recontextualizes it as a modern anthem of Korean identity, blending its historical weight with contemporary themes of self-discovery and cultural pride. The group’s return to music is not just a personal milestone but a cultural statement. BTS has always positioned themselves as more than idols; they are storytellers who speak candidly about the pressures of fame, societal expectations, and the complexities of growing up. Their music, while often accessible to global audiences, is rooted in Korean language, traditions, and social commentary. Tracks like Paldogangsan (2015), which features regional dialects, and Baespae (2015), a critique of class inequality, exemplify this commitment to cultural storytelling. Arirang continues this tradition while expanding their sonic palette.#korea #bts #arirang #tame_impala #diplo

BTS Fans From Around The World Gather In Seoul For Historic Comeback Concert Thousands of fans from across the globe have flocked to Seoul in anticipation of the group’s first full-member comeback concert since members began their mandatory military service. The event, held near Gwanghwamun, has drawn significant attention as authorities have implemented extensive security measures to ensure the safety of attendees. Fans from the United States, Australia, and other countries have arrived days in advance, creating a vibrant atmosphere that underscores the global impact of the group. The concert marks a pivotal moment for BTS and their fanbase, ARMY, as it represents the first time all members will perform together since their service obligations began. With an estimated 20,000 ticket holders expected inside the main venue, the event is anticipated to be a major milestone in the group’s career. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of fans may watch the performance on large screens in nearby areas, further highlighting the cultural significance of the occasion. The gathering reflects the enduring connection between the group and their supporters, as they celebrate a new chapter in their journey.#korea #seoul #bts #army #gwanghwamun

BTS fans have finally witnessed a long-awaited reunion as the group’s seven members performed together on stage for the first time in nearly four years. The event, a free public concert in Seoul, marked the beginning of their comeback and was part of a promotional tour for their new album, Arirang. Named after a traditional Korean folk song and the country’s unofficial national anthem, the album explores themes of identity and belonging. The concert also served as a prelude to their global tour, which will span 34 regions from April 2026 to March 2027. A documentary capturing the reunion and the concert will be released on Netflix. The concert, held in Gwanghwamun Square near Gyeongbokgung Palace, drew thousands of fans, with 22,000 securing “Golden Tickets” to attend. Despite the limited number of tickets, the event was expected to attract up to 260,000 people, making it the largest public concert in South Korean history. Fans dressed in traditional hanbok attire, inspired by the album’s themes, flooded social media with photos of their outfits. Some, like Vivienne Ferrier from the U.S., wore hanbok-inspired designs in red and white to align with the album’s color scheme, while others incorporated purple, the symbolic color of BTS and their fanbase, ARMY. The concert’s stage design, created by Guy Carrington and Florian Wieder, was inspired by a picture frame, blending modern energy with historical significance. The venue, a sacred space in Seoul, required meticulous planning to ensure the performance honored its cultural context without disrupting its heritage. The event was directed by Hamish Hamilton, a renowned director known for productions like the Super Bowl halftime show and the Oscars. He described the logistical challenges as “among the most complex” of his career, noting the absence of rehearsals on the actual stage.#netflix #seoul #bts #hybe #gyeongbokgung

BTS Fans Gather in Seoul for Highly Anticipated Comeback Show More than 260,000 fans are expected to gather in Seoul’s historic Gwanghwamun Square to witness the long-awaited return of K-pop sensation BTS, marking their first live performance together since October 2022. The group, consisting of RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook, will deliver a one-hour set featuring tracks from their newly released album Arirang, which debuted on Friday afternoon. BBC Seoul correspondent Jake Kwon reported that fans have been flocking to the square ahead of the event, expressing overwhelming excitement. The concert, held in the heart of South Korea’s capital, is anticipated to be a landmark moment for the group, who have been absent from the public eye since their last collaborative performance. The album Arirang has generated significant anticipation, with fans eagerly awaiting its release. The concert will serve as a platform to showcase the group’s latest musical endeavors, blending their signature fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and emotional storytelling. The event is expected to draw global attention, as BTS continues to solidify their status as one of the most influential acts in K-pop. The gathering in Gwanghwamun Square underscores the deep connection between the group and their fanbase, who have remained steadfast in their support despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and global events. As the concert approaches, the atmosphere in Seoul is electric, with fans preparing to celebrate the return of their favorite artists.#seoul #bts #arirang #gwanghwamun_square #jake_kwon

BTS Arirang review: K-pop idols rekindle their fire The return of BTS is a big deal. In case you were in any doubt, just look at the frenzy surrounding the South Koreans' comeback. On Saturday, the band will kick off a sold-out, 82-date world tour with a free concert in Seoul, expected to draw more than 250,000 in-person fans and be live-streamed on Netflix to over 190 countries. When the tour wraps up in 2027, BTS are projected to generate more than $1 billion in revenue. Some estimates suggest they could surpass Taylor Swift’s Eras tour earnings of $2 billion. Despite this, demand remains so high that Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has written to the South Korean government requesting more BTS shows in her country. Eager fans have pre-saved the band’s tenth album, Arirang, more than five million times on Spotify—the highest number ever achieved by a K-pop group. Shares in their record company, HYBE, have surged in anticipation of the release. During their four-year hiatus, during which all seven members completed South Korea’s mandatory 18-month military service, HYBE’s operating profit dropped by nearly 37.5%. This underscores the immense expectations for Arirang. Fans are desperate to see the group reunited, but the K-pop industry faces challenges, including scandals and declining album sales. BTS’s return is seen as a litmus test for the genre’s global appeal. The band could have played it safe, sticking to their earlier sleek, retro-disco sound—tracks like Dynamite and Butter—which appealed to listeners who found Bruno Mars too abrasive. These songs solidified BTS as the biggest K-pop act worldwide, especially in English-speaking markets.#bts #arirang #hybe #claudia_sheinbaum #el_guincho

BTS returns with 'Arirang,' a landmark album that marks the group's triumphant return after a four-year hiatus. The Korean boy band, whose global chart-topping success was paused in 2022 for mandatory military service, has reemerged to a transformed K-pop landscape shaped by their influence. The album, recorded in Los Angeles last summer, features a diverse array of collaborators, including megamix producer Diplo, longtime group executive Pdogg, and artists like El Guincho, Flume, JPEGMAFIA, and Tame Impala's Kevin Parker. This eclectic mix reflects BTS's evolving identity as a bridge between K-pop and Western pop, while maintaining the group's distinct artistic voice. The last BTS album, BE, released during the pandemic, captured the tension and isolation of the era, with a more subdued sound compared to their earlier work. After three Hot 100-topping singles in 2021, the group announced a "period of rest" for solo projects, followed by a more extended break as members were conscripted into the Korean military between 2022 and 2025. Their hiatus coincided with a pivotal moment for K-pop's global expansion, as their absence created space for the genre to gain wider acceptance in Western markets. Now, with Arirang, BTS returns to a world where their influence has paved the way for K-pop's mainstream integration. The album's production underscores BTS's strategic approach to blending K-pop with global sounds. Diplo, known for his work with artists like Robyn and M.I.A., serves as the executive producer, while Pdogg and Mike WiLL Made-It contribute to the album's trap-infused beats. Tracks like "SWIM" and "2.0" highlight the group's signature style—a moody, trap-pop sound that balances introspection with dramatic balladry.#korea #bts #arirang #diplo #pdogg

BTS Set for Back-to-Back Late-Night Appearances on The Tonight Show The K-pop group BTS is set to make their first U.S. late-night television return since 2021 with two consecutive episodes of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in March. The episodes, scheduled for March 25 and 26, will mark the group’s first full appearance as a collective since completing their mandatory military service in 2025. During the appearances, members RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook will participate in in-studio interviews and perform live. The two-night event will follow the release of their fifth studio album, Arirang, on March 20, with additional Netflix streaming specials planned for the end of the month. The group’s return to The Tonight Show comes after a hiatus during which all seven members served in the South Korean military. By law, male citizens between the ages of 18 and 21 are required to serve 18 to 21 months. BTS last appeared as a full group on The Tonight Show in July 2021 during their “BTS Takeover,” which attracted over 120 million views globally and featured performances of “Butter” and “Permission to Dance.” Since then, individual members have made solo appearances on the show, including Jin’s interview in November 2024. The March 25 episode will feature Ariana DeBose as a guest, while the March 26 episode will include actors Chris Pratt and Charlie Day, known for their roles in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. The episodes will air at 11:35/10:35c on NBC, with streaming available the following day on Peacock. Fallon himself expressed excitement about the reunion, as seen in a teaser shared earlier this month. The appearances will coincide with the group’s ongoing activities, including their solo projects and collaborations.#chris_pratt #bts #jimmy_fallon #the_tonight_show #ariana_debose

BTS to Appear in Back-to-Back Episodes of ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ BTS — RM, Jin, Suga, J-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook — will make their first late-night television appearance since 2021 with two consecutive episodes of “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” The group will participate in an in-studio interview and perform two songs, with the interview and first performance airing on March 25 and the second song scheduled for March 26. Their appearance follows the release of their fifth studio album, “Arirang,” on March 20, and the global live performance “BTS: The Comeback Live | Arirang,” which premiered on Netflix on March 21. Their feature documentary, “BTS: The Return,” will debut on Netflix on March 27. The album “Arirang” marks BTS’ first full-length release since “Proof,” which dropped in June 2022. The group’s hiatus since then was prompted by members fulfilling mandatory military service in South Korea and pursuing solo projects. Prior to the official announcement, members had already shared the album’s release date with fans through handwritten letters sent to some ARMY members’ homes, bearing the date “2026.3.20.” BTS last performed together on “The Tonight Show” during their 2021 takeover, though several members have since appeared individually on the show. The March 25 episode will also feature Ariana DeBose, while Chris Pratt and Charlie Day are set to appear on the March 26 episode. The show tapes before a live studio audience in Studio 6B at 30 Rockefeller Center and airs at 11:35 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, with streaming available the following day on Peacock. The group’s return to late-night television coincides with their ongoing global comeback, which includes the album’s release and the live performance.#netflix #bts #arirang #jimmy_fallon #the_tonight_show

Seoul raises terror alert as it prepares to host BTS comeback concert South Korea’s capital has increased security measures ahead of BTS’s highly anticipated comeback concert, with authorities elevating the terror alert level and mobilizing thousands of police officers to ensure safety. The event, set for Saturday, is expected to draw over 260,000 attendees, including fans from around the world, as the K-pop group returns to the stage for the first time as a full group since October 2022. The concert will take place at Gwanghwamun Square, near the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, and will be streamed live on Netflix to audiences in more than 190 countries. President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the importance of security during a cabinet meeting, urging government agencies to prepare for all possible scenarios. He highlighted the event’s significance in showcasing South Korea’s global cultural influence. In response to growing international tensions, including the Middle East crisis, authorities have raised the terror alert to the second-lowest level on a four-step scale for parts of Seoul, effective until midnight on Saturday. The US embassy, located approximately 160 meters from the stage, is under heightened scrutiny. Security operations are extensive, with 6,500 police officers, including over 70 riot police units, deployed on the day of the concert. The Seoul city government will add 3,400 personnel, supported by 102 fire trucks and 803 firefighters. Subway services will bypass stations near the event to manage crowds. The venue will operate like a stadium, with 31 entry gates equipped with walk-through metal detectors. Civilian firearm access to police stations across Seoul has been restricted.#netflix #seoul #bts #gwanghwamun_square #gyeongbokgung_palace

BTS Returns to Seoul for Massive Concert Amid Security Measures The historic heart of South Korea's capital is preparing for what may be the year's largest gathering as the world's most successful band, BTS, makes its long-awaited return. Over 260,000 fans are expected to gather at Gwanghwamun Square on Saturday for the group’s first full performance since October 2022. The seven K-pop stars—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook—will take the stage for an hour, featuring songs from their upcoming album Arirang, set to release on Friday. While only about 22,000 fans with free tickets will enter the concert venue, the majority will watch via giant screens outside the square. For many, the event represents more than just a music performance. Ami Ostrovskaia, a Russian student in Seoul, credits BTS with inspiring her to learn about Korean culture, history, and language. “BTS is the reason I’m here,” she says. The concert, held near the 14th-century gateway to the royal palace, will also be streamed globally on Netflix, which has secured exclusive live-streaming rights. The platform’s partnership with BTS includes a documentary on the band’s reunion, a move that has bolstered the group’s global influence. The return of BTS marks a significant moment for South Korea, as the band has long been a symbol of the country’s cultural soft power. Their rise to fame coincided with their mandatory military service, with Jin enlisting first in 2022 and Suga completing his in June 2023. The group’s 82-date world tour, spanning over 30 cities, begins next month, reflecting their enduring popularity. However, the stakes are high as they re-enter a K-pop industry that has grown more competitive. Park Joo-young, a fan, acknowledges the pressure but remains confident: “They’ve always exceeded my expectations. I believe they’ll do their best.#netflix #seoul #bts #gwanghwamun_square #kim_yong_ran

What to Stream: BTS, New 'Peaky Blinders' Movie, Luke Combs and Crimson Desert New movies, music, and series are set to debut this week, offering fans a mix of returning favorites and fresh content. Cillian Murphy’s Tommy Shelby returns in the new “Peaky Blinders” movie, “The Immortal Man,” now available on Netflix. The film, written by series creator Steven Knight and directed by Tom Harper, features a cast including Rebecca Ferguson and Barry Keoghan. The six-season series is also available for rewatching on Netflix. Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut, “Is This Thing On?,” starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern, explores a man navigating divorce and stand-up comedy. Based on the story of comedian Joseph Bishop, the film is set to stream on Hulu. “Wicked: For Good,” the final installment of Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of the Broadway musical, debuts on Peacock. The darker sequel, featuring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jeff Goldblum, received mixed reviews but remains a major release. Music fans can look forward to new releases from BTS and Luke Combs. The K-pop group returns with their first full-length project since completing mandatory military service, “ARIRANG,” available on March 20. Fans can also stream their comeback performance live on Netflix. Luke Combs, who has transitioned from country to pop, releases his new album “The Way I Am,” including singles like “Be By You” and “Sleepless in a Hotel Room.” The album is expected to dominate country radio. New series include “Imperfect Women,” a psychological thriller on Apple TV starring Elisabeth Moss, Kerry Washington, and Kate Mara. The eight-episode series, based on a novel by Araminta Hall, follows friends whose bond is tested by a crime. The first two episodes premiere on March 16.#cillian_murphy #peaky_blinders #steven_knight #tom_harper #bts

How Seven Korean Students in 1896 Recorded The First Arirang, And Inspired BTS The animated trailer for BTS's upcoming "Arirang" project has sparked renewed interest in a historical moment that connects the group to a group of Korean students who recorded the folk song over a century ago. The trailer, which opens with a scene set in 1896, depicts seven young men gathering around a phonograph as the melody of Arirang plays. The narrative then transitions to their journey across the Pacific Ocean, their recording of the song in Washington, D.C., and a modern-day performance by BTS under purple lights—a color symbolic of the group’s fanbase. This visual bridge between past and present highlights the enduring cultural significance of Arirang, a song that has evolved from a historical recording to a global phenomenon. The story of the 1896 students is rooted in a lesser-known chapter of Korean history. According to historical records, six young men—Im Byung Goo, Lee Bum Su, Kim Hun Sik, Ahn Jung Sik, Eyo Byung Hyun, and an unidentified student—fled Japan in the spring of 1896 after allegedly stealing money from a Korean bank. They sought refuge in Washington, D.C., where they were eventually housed at Howard University. The university’s Executive Committee provided free accommodation in Clark Hall, while the Korean envoy to the U.S., Suh Kwang Bum, covered the cost of furniture. This support came at a critical time, as the students had run out of funds after leaving Japan and found themselves stranded in Canada. Howard University, founded in 1867 to educate formerly enslaved African Americans, became an unlikely but vital sanctuary for the students. Racial barriers in the U.S.#bts #arirang #howard_university #alice_c_fletcher #library_of_congress

BTS's New 'Arirang' Teaser Explores Korean Folk Song's History K-pop group BTS has released an animated teaser for their upcoming album Arirang, which delves into the origins of the Korean folk song and its historical significance. The teaser highlights the first recorded version of the song, performed by seven young Korean students in May 1896. These students were pioneers in their pursuit of education in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in Korea's cultural and intellectual history. The Arirang song, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage by both North and South Korea, embodies the Korean concept of han—a complex emotion encompassing sorrow, longing, collective grief, resilience, and hope. Through themes of separation, loss, perseverance, and national pride, the song has become a cultural touchstone for Koreans across generations. It is often regarded as the unofficial national anthem of Korea, reflecting its deep-rooted significance in Korean identity. BTS previously performed a live cover of the folk song at KCON 2016 France on June 14, 2016, a performance that has since gained renewed attention on social media. The group's new album Arirang is set to release on March 20, followed by a world tour beginning on April 9 at the Goyang Sports Complex near Seoul. The tour will span 34 cities and feature 79 shows, establishing a record for the largest K-pop tour in history. The event will include a 360-degree stage design, enhancing the immersive experience for fans. The teaser not only celebrates the song's historical legacy but also underscores BTS's commitment to blending traditional Korean culture with contemporary music.#bts #kcon_2016_france #unesco #arirang_album #goyang_sports_complex