BTS Returns with Full-Scale Concert After 6.5 Years: A New Era Begins

BTS has made a triumphant return with their first full-scale solo concert in six and a half years. Embracing change and growth, the group has entered a new phase, dubbed 'BTS 2.0', while maintaining their heartfelt connection with fans.

On November 11, BTS (RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, Jungkook) kicked off their 'BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG'' at the Goyang Sports Complex in Goyang, South Korea. Following the opening of their world tour on the 10th, BTS will perform in Goyang for a total of three days, concluding on the 12th.

The concert opened with performances of 'Hooligan', 'Aliens', and 'Run BTS'. After the opening, Jungkook greeted fans, noting the improved weather compared to the rainy first day. Despite the chilly 7-degree temperature in the evening, the members shed their outerwear and performed in sleeveless outfits, undeterred by the cold.

The concert featured a 360-degree stage, a first in a long time. V expressed his excitement about being surrounded by ARMY (the fandom name) from all sides. Jimin mentioned the release of their 'Arirang' album after four years and the concert tour after six and a half years, highlighting their efforts to try new things. Suga added that they prepared new stages with rearranged music.

The performance of the new album's title track 'Swim' was particularly notable, featuring a large white cloth that, under blue lighting, resembled the sea. Dancers manipulated the cloth to create wave-like movements, with the members appearing to walk on water. During 'Run BTS', Jungkook carried a selfie camera, adding a personal touch to the performance.

There were some hiccups, such as a 10-minute delay at the start of the concert, during which the lyrics of 'Arirang' were displayed on the screen. This was intended to introduce the theme of the new album, but the message was somewhat lost on the international audience, who chanted for BTS to appear.

The opening song 'Hooligan' was obscured by excessive smoke effects, making it difficult to see the members. While the group aimed to create a lively atmosphere by spreading out across the stage during songs like 'Fake Love' and 'Fire', fans who anticipated BTS's signature synchronized choreography were left wanting.

However, the members' efforts to engage the audience were evident. In a 'karaoke corner', they performed randomly selected songs, impressively executing choreography for 'DNA' despite it being unplanned, which elicited cheers from the crowd.

During the VCR intermission, fans sang 'Young Forever' and 'Spring Day', expressing their longing for BTS's return. These songs resonated as messages from fans to the group, reflecting the shared emotions during their hiatus.

BTS's new world tour marks their first as a complete group in six and a half years. Leader RM expressed gratitude for the fans' patience and support, emphasizing that while they are embracing change, their core values and sincerity towards fans remain unchanged. He reflected on the group's journey, noting the members' growth and commitment to their craft.

Jungkook addressed recent controversies surrounding his live broadcasts, assuring fans of his genuine intentions and promising to continue delivering passionate performances. He expressed gratitude and love for the fans, vowing to repay their patience with diverse and impressive performances.

The members conveyed their heartfelt messages to ARMY. Jimin expressed his longing and gratitude for the fans' patience, promising to continue delivering great performances and music. J-Hope shared his dedication to conveying positive emotions through their performances, assuring fans of many more exciting stages to come.

The world tour will span 34 cities across Tokyo, North America, Europe, South America, and Asia, with 85 shows planned, marking the largest tour by a Korean artist. Additional performances are scheduled in Japan and the Middle East, further expanding the tour's scale. All 46 shows, including those in Goyang, Tokyo Dome, and North America, have sold out. Notably, BTS will be the first Korean artist to perform solo stadium concerts in some North and South American regions.

After performing for 132,000 fans over three days in Goyang, BTS will continue their tour at the Tokyo Dome on November 17-18.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr