BTS Kicks Off Global Tour in South Korea, Attracting Thousands of Fans

The K-pop supergroup BTS made a triumphant return to the stage on Thursday, launching their highly anticipated global tour in South Korea. The event, held at a stadium near Seoul, attracted thousands of dedicated fans. Rain didn’t deter the enthusiasm, as over 40,000 fans gathered to witness the band perform after nearly four years of hiatus.

BTS Begins Global Tour in South Korea

The concert marked the first headline tour performance since BTS’ previous tour, “Permission to Dance on Stage” in 2021–22. Their upcoming world tour will include stops in the United States, Europe, and Asia, running until April 12. Analysts project that this tour could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue per quarter.

New Album and Historical Context

BTS’s performance coincided with the release of their new album “ARIRANG.” This album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and features the hit single “Swim,” which also achieved chart-topping status. The album is named after a traditional Korean folk song, symbolizing the group’s cultural roots.

• On June 12, 2025, Suga will be the last member discharged from military service.
• All seven members completed South Korea’s mandatory military service.
• The band’s military service upholds a conscription law affecting men aged 18-28.

Fans Celebrate a Formidable Return

Despite the heavy rainfall, fans gathered outside the stadium, some without tickets, eager to hear BTS perform live. The dedication of the Army, BTS’s fanbase, highlighted the band’s enduring popularity and the excitement surrounding their return.

BTS, which debuted in June 2013, became renowned for their powerful performances and significant impact on the global music scene. The band initially gained traction with the album “Wings,” but their breakthrough came with the 2017 hit “DNA,” making them the first Korean boy band to enter the Billboard Hot 100.

After their shows in South Korea, BTS will continue their tour to numerous international locations, including Tokyo and then across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. The final performance is scheduled for March in Manila, while Australian dates are set for early 2027. Fans can expect an impressive lineup of songs reflecting the group’s extensive catalog.