BTS ARIRANG world tour opens in Goyang with large-scale production

BTS launched their ARIRANG world tour in Goyang with a large-scale concert that marked the group’s first major shared performance in four years, following their Yet To Come Busan show.

The event, held at Goyang Stadium, was streamed globally via Weverse and screened in cinemas, expanding access to international audiences.

The opening night faced disruption due to heavy rain, which affected technical elements of the production, including smoke effects during the introduction.

Despite the conditions, members RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook continued with the performance. Day two proceeded under clear skies, allowing the group to present the full production as planned.

The concert featured a 360-degree stage with extended platforms designed to bring the group closer to the audience. Production elements included moving stages, lighting effects, drone cameras, fire effects, confetti and fireworks.

The stage design incorporated traditional Korean influences, drawing from the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and the Taegeukgi motif, reflecting themes from the group’s latest album ARIRANG.

The setlist combined new material with established tracks, including performances of “Hooligan”, “Run BTS”, “Fake Love”, “IDOL”, “Butter” and “Dynamite”. The concert also included visual segments representing symbolic elements linked to Korean culture.

During the show, BTS addressed the audience directly, encouraging attendees to reduce phone use during performances.

RM said, “You can take photos or film occasionally, but this moment will never come back,” highlighting the group’s focus on live engagement.

Following the Goyang concerts, the tour is scheduled to continue in Tokyo before expanding to a multi-city run across North America, Europe, South America and Asia.