SEOUL - K-pop megastars BTS made a triumphant return to the stage on Saturday, holding a free concert at Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul to celebrate the release of their fifth studio album, "Arirang."
The performance from 8 p.m., which was also streamed live on Netflix for global fans, marked the first time all seven members have appeared together on stage since completing their mandatory military service.
With tens of thousands of fans flocking to the venue at one of the most popular and historical sites in Seoul, the event served as a grand showcase for the group's first group release in three years and nine months, following the album "Proof" in 2022.
Named after the beloved Korean folk song often considered the nation's unofficial anthem, the new album "Arirang" captures BTS' identity as a global act rooted in Korean heritage, according to their agency, BigHit Music.
"We are truly, truly honored to be on stage at Gwanghwamun, a place that holds so much of Korea's history," said SUGA, a member of the group said after performing the first three songs of the concert.
"We wanted this album to be a reflection of who we are, which is why we titled it 'Arirang.' It was with that heart and purpose that we prepared this performance here at Gwanghwamun today," he added.
The other members also expressed their happiness to be back on stage, while showing gratitude toward the crowd that had gathered to see them.
The concert reached a peak as the group performed the lead track of the new album "Swim," while the setlist also featured "Body to Body," a track that incorporates the traditional melody from "Arirang."
Security was tight as police projected a massive crowd of up to 260,000 people. The actual turnout was more modest, with approximately 48,000 fans gathering in and around the venue, according to the Seoul metropolitan government.
Nevertheless, the 22,000 fans with tickets inside the square and those watching from the perimeter created an enthusiastic atmosphere.
Physical sales of the new album reflected the group's steadfast global influence, reaching approximately 4 million copies on its first day of release.
