▲ BTS performs at Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square during a concert marking the live debut of the group's fifth studio album, "Arirang," on March 21, 2026. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
▲ Fans take photos during BTS' comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square in downtown Seoul on March 21, 2026. (Yonhap)
▲ Fans of BTS move under police guidance after the K-pop group's comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square in downtown Seoul on March 21, 2026. (Yonhap)

BTS concert-response

Fans in festive mood as BTS comes back after 4-yr hiatus

SEOUL, March 21 (Yonhap) -- Fans of BTS were in a festive mood as the K-pop supergroup returned to the stage Saturday in full lineup for the first time in four years, with a massive free comeback concert in downtown Seoul.

The 60-minute show, livestreamed on Netflix worldwide, followed the release of the group's fifth album, "Arirang," on Friday, which sold nearly 4 million copies on its first day, according to its agency, Hybe.

The highly anticipated concert came after all seven members have completed South Korea's mandatory military service, marking a long-awaited reunion for BTS fans, ARMY, the group's dedicated fanbase.

The concert drew more than 40,000 people to the Gwanghwamun area, authorities said, prompting police to step up security measures and restrict traffic in nearby areas.

The venue included about 22,000 standing-only spots stretching from Gwanghwamun Square to Seoul City Hall. Many fans also watched the concert on large outdoor screens set up on nearby buildings, while others gathered around the plaza to catch the performance.

Set against the historic backdrop of Gwanghwamun Square and Gyeongbokgung Palace, the performance was lit in vibrant hues of purple, red and blue, turning the heart of Seoul into a dazzling open-air stage.

As all seven members stepped onto the main stage at 8 p.m., cheers erupted across the square.

Fans waved light sticks, shouted "BTS, I love you," and some were overcome with emotion, wiping away tears at the long-awaited reunion.

When BTS' global hit "Butter" began to play, the crowd instantly broke into a massive sing-along, swaying and dancing in unison.

The energy culminated in a roaring chorus during the final song, "Dynamite," when one foreign fan shouted "No!" in protest at the concert ending.

After the concert wrapped up, fans slowly made their way out under police guidance. Some expressed gratitude to the Seoul city government and police for making the event possible at such a symbolic location, with one fan saying in English, "Thank you, police."

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