'Arirang' Colors Gwanghwamun: BTS Returns with Their 'Most Korean' Stage

SEOUL, March 22(Yonhap) -- “Under the most Korean name, the most global stage unfolded.”

BTS announced their full-group comeback at Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, signaling the beginning of a new chapter that places “Korean identity” at the forefront.

On Saturday at 8 p.m., BTS held their comeback performance "BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG" in Jongno District, Seoul, celebrating the release of their fifth full-length album "Arirang."

▲ BTS holds their comeback performance "BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG" in Jongno District, Seoul, celebrating the release of their fifth full-length album "Arirang" on March 21, 2026. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

This concert served as a symbolic stage encapsulating the group’s direction and message. By placing "Arirang" at the center of both the album and performance titles, BTS brought a distinctly Korean narrative to the heart of the global stage.

The choice of Gwanghwamun as the venue followed the same logic. With Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bugaksan Mountain as the backdrop, the stage visually embodied the intersection of tradition and modernity—reinforcing the “Korean-ness” emphasized in this comeback.

The opening performance maximized this intent. Joined by around 50 dancers, the members stood atop cube-shaped structures and unveiled new songs against the Gwanghwamun backdrop, immediately commanding the audience. During the encore "Mikrokosmos," LED visuals of starlight spread across the sky, forming the Big Dipper above Gwanghwamun and completing the concert’s narrative.

▲ Crowds of people attend BTS' comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on March 21, 2026, in this photo provided by BigHit Music and Netflix. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Their outfits also drew attention. Inspired by Joseon-era generals’ armor, the costumes reinterpreted traditional attire in a modern way, visually linking past, present, and future.

One of the concert’s most notable features was its bold setlist. Of the 12 songs performed, eight were from the new album "Arirang," signaling a focus on showcasing “the BTS of today” rather than relying on past hits.

This choice reflected confidence in presenting new music rather than leaning on previous success after a long hiatus.

Jungkook said, “I felt pressure and fear about the comeback, but standing in front of you just feels good,” while Jin added, “I had many worries before coming back, but I’m happy we could meet again.”

According to organizers, about 104,000 people attended the event, far exceeding the 22,000 official seats as crowds filled surrounding streets. Police unofficially estimated around 42,000 attendees.

The Gwanghwamun area was awash in purple light sticks, with international fans and tourists blending together, underscoring the event’s status as a “global cultural event.”

During the performance, members also shared candid thoughts.

Jimin said, “We’re not special people. We’re afraid too. But if we keep moving forward with those feelings, I believe we’ll find the answer someday.” V added, “Continuing to make music without stopping is what we must do.”

Released the previous day, the fifth full-length album "Arirang" sold 3.98 million copies on its first day, setting a new personal record. The album contains 14 tracks, including the title song "SWIM."

The concert was broadcast live to 190 countries worldwide via Netflix.

The production team captured various moments from BTS’s comeback live performance on camera.

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