More than 100,000 fans gathered in central Seoul over the weekend to witness BTS’s first live performance in nearly four years, according to their label HYBE.
The seven-member group reunited on stage following a long hiatus due to mandatory military service, with some members previously deployed near the tense border with North Korea.
The comeback concert was held Saturday at Gwanghwamun Square, set against the historic backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Fans from across South Korea and abroad filled the venue, singing along as they celebrated the return of the “Kings of K-pop.”
HYBE said an estimated 104,000 attendees were recorded based on ticket sales and mobile carrier data. The figure was lower than the initial projection of 260,000, while police estimates placed the crowd at around 42,000, according to Yonhap News Agency.
The event was livestreamed globally via Netflix, reaching audiences in about 190 countries.
Security measures were extensive, with around 15,000 police officers and personnel deployed, along with road closures and restricted access to nearby areas.
The concert coincided with the release of BTS’s latest album, ARIRANG, which HYBE said reflects the group’s evolving identity and deeper connection to Korean culture. The album sold nearly four million copies on its first day.