BTS Arirang world tour opens in South Korea as thousands attend first concert after hiatus
Photo: X
Thousands of fans gathered in South Korea as BTS launched their long-awaited world tour, marking their first headline performance together in nearly four years.
The seven-member group, consisting of RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook, performed at Goyang Stadium near Seoul despite heavy rain, filling a venue with a capacity of more than 40,000. The concert forms part of a series of shows running through April 12 before the group continues its global tour.
BTS opens night one of their ARIRANG world tour at Goyang Stadium with a performance of ‘Hooligan.’ pic.twitter.com/u6LdYBa9Ae
The performance follows the release of their fifth studio album, ARIRANG, their first project since completing South Korea’s mandatory military service. All members have now fulfilled their national duties, with Suga being the final member discharged in June 2025.
The new tour marks BTS’s return to large-scale live performances since their 2021–22 Permission to Dance on Stage tour. It also comes shortly after a free comeback concert held at Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, which reintroduced the group to fans following their hiatus.
“ARIRANG” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, while its single “Swim” also achieved top chart positions. The album draws inspiration from a traditional Korean folk song widely regarded as an unofficial anthem across the Korean peninsula.
The upcoming world tour will include performances across the United States, Europe, Asia and other regions, with analysts suggesting it could generate significant revenue. The next stop is scheduled in Tokyo, with further dates planned across multiple continents before concluding in Manila in 2027.