BTS returned to the stage in Seoul on Saturday, performing for tens of thousands of fans in their first concert in over three years, although attendance fell short of expectations despite extensive citywide preparations.
The hour-long outdoor show at Gwanghwamun Square marked the group’s official comeback after a hiatus in 2022, during which members completed mandatory military service. The group also released a new album on Friday that reportedly sold nearly 4 million copies on its first day, ahead of a global tour set to begin next month and billed as the largest in K-pop history.
Although only 22,000 tickets were issued for the main concert area, authorities had expected up to 260,000 attendees in surrounding areas and shut down parts of the city center in anticipation. However, turnout was much lower, with estimates from Yonhap News Agency putting attendance at around 40,000 to 42,000. Many fans opted to watch the performance via Netflix, which streamed the concert live to audiences in 190 countries.
“It’s been a long journey, but we’re finally here,” said group leader RM, who performed seated after sustaining an ankle injury during rehearsals. Member J-Hope added that the group had worried about being forgotten during their break.
Seoul authorities implemented strict safety measures, deploying over 8,000 personnel and setting up medical stations, reflecting heightened caution following the deadly crowd crush in the Itaewon district in 2022. However, some locals criticized the heavy security and disruptions, given the lower-than-expected turnout.
Fans—known as the BTS ARMY—still traveled from around the world to attend, with some spending significant time and money to be part of the comeback event.
Looking ahead, BTS’s global tour is expected to run through 2027, covering dozens of regions and potentially expanding further. Their new album “Arirang” sold approximately 3.98 million copies on its first day, according to their label under HYBE.
Analysts predict the tour could generate as much as 2.7 trillion won ($1.8 billion), putting it on par with major global tours like The Eras Tour and Music of the Spheres World Tour, with total shows potentially reaching 100 and drawing millions of fans worldwide.
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