BTS, 21일 광화문서 컴백 무료 공연 개최
넷플릭스, 전 세계 최초 라이브로 단독 송출
정규 5집 'ARIRANG' 발매 기념 완전체 활동
넷플릭스, 전 세계 최초 라이브로 단독 송출
정규 5집 'ARIRANG' 발매 기념 완전체 활동
Following the global success of Netflix's 'Squid Game' series and the animated film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters', Netflix has expressed strong confidence in their upcoming free concert at Gwanghwamun Square in collaboration with BTS.
On the morning of the 20th, Netflix held a pre-media briefing for 'BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG' at Cinecube Gwanghwamun in Jongno-gu, Seoul.
Brandon Riegg, VP of Nonfiction Series and Sports at Netflix, opened up about the collaboration with HYBE. He stated, "In line with Netflix's belief to 'entertain the world', we couldn't miss the opportunity to collaborate with BTS for a live event." He added, "We are proud to deliver a powerful experience that connects and shares with fans worldwide."
Why Gwanghwamun for BTS's Comeback Stage?
Yoo Dong-joo, APAC Head of HYBE Music Group, addressed the frequent question of why the collaboration is taking place at Gwanghwamun. He said, "We believe this performance will be a historic moment depicting BTS after this point in time. Chairman Bang Si-hyuk stated that the first performance location for the globally renowned 'BTS' comeback should be a symbolic space in Korea." He continued, "We think it's a culturally rare experience for Koreans and foreigners, the public and fans, to celebrate and enjoy the stage together. Spreading this globally is meaningful. We believe Netflix is the most suitable for creating special scenes in symbolic spaces. It's not just a performance but a cultural and historical event."
How Grand is the Gwanghwamun Concert?
Garrett English, the executive producer, explained the concert's composition, saying, "We spent a lot of time collaborating and designing with our Korean partners on how to harmonize tradition and modernity." He added, "We made efforts to respect both the modern elements BTS wants to implement and the historical significance of the location."
Regarding the concert's scale, Garrett English stated, "It will be an enormous scale performance." He expressed gratitude for the cooperation from HYBE, the members, as well as the Seoul city and government. "Despite the complex challenges, we could implement it thanks to the cooperation of each major department," he said. He further mentioned, "The biggest challenge for the broadcast team is to showcase and capture the scale while emphasizing how intimate and close the moments are with the fans. When achieved, it will be a meaningful moment for both fans and members."
Brandon Riegg VP added, "This is the first major live music performance for both BTS and Netflix, and we have prepared with maximum resources and time." He continued, "This is a unique experience made possible by the collaboration of an artist like BTS and a platform like Netflix. We expect it to set a new standard in the entertainment industry."
Will Netflix Increase Investment in K-Content?
Brandon Riegg VP also mentioned that this is Netflix's first live event in Korea. He said, "We are pleased to share numerous Korean-related content, not just the 'Squid Game' series or the film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters'. This concert is in line with that. When we decided to collaborate on a live performance in Korea, there was no better choice than BTS." He hinted at future plans, saying, "Although I can't say now, there are projects under discussion following this concert."
Brandon Riegg VP also hinted at more investment in Korean content, stating, "What we've confirmed by sharing K-content is that the world has welcomed Korean entertainment." He added, "Our goal is to provide joy to our members, so there's no reason not to produce Korean content. We will continue live events and are investing in building the infrastructure for it. You can expect to see expanded investments."
He concluded, "As entertainment diversifies and options increase, single events that bring people together globally are disappearing. We thought we should seize such rare opportunities. As a global platform, Netflix hopes to provide an experience where everyone shares a common experience."
Kim Hyun-jung, VP of Big Hit Music, revealed the creative intent behind the new full-length album 'ARIRANG', which will be released at 1 PM today. He said, "We hope you see it as an album containing the stories BTS members want to tell now. We prepared it using both Korean and English so that as many people as possible can understand it. We hope it becomes an album that can be enjoyed across generations."
BTS's 'BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG' will take place at 8 PM on the 21st around Gwanghwamun Square. This concert is Netflix's first live event broadcast from Korea to the world and a music performance. The event is directed by Hamish Hamilton, who has directed globally prestigious events such as the Emmy Awards, Grammys, Oscars, the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony, and tours for pop stars Madonna and Beyoncé.
Meanwhile, BTS will release their 5th full-length album 'ARIRANG' at 1 PM on the 20th, marking their first full group activity in about four years.
Min-Kyung Lee, Ten Asia Reporter 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr