BTS Kicks Off 'ARIRANG' World Tour with Spectacular Performances in Korea

BTS successfully launched their 'BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG'' with three sold-out shows at the Goyang Stadium on the 9th, 11th, and 12th. The concerts attracted a total of approximately 132,000 fans. The event was simultaneously broadcasted in cinemas across major countries and regions worldwide through 'Live Viewing' and streamed online via the global fan platform Weverse, reaching audiences in 194 countries and regions.

The stadium featured a 360-degree open stage, accommodating around 44,000 fans per show. The performances showcased tracks from their fifth studio album 'ARIRANG', blending Korean cultural elements with artistic stage designs. A pavilion inspired by Gyeonghoeru was set up at the center, and a protruding stage designed with motifs from the Korean flag brought the audience closer.

BTS made a dramatic entrance amidst a masked crowd holding smoke bombs, performing new tracks 'Hooligan' and 'Aliens', instantly turning the stadium into a festive arena. During 'Run BTS', member Jungkook captured the stage from a first-person perspective using a drone camera, sharing the live excitement with online viewers. The members expressed their excitement, saying, "It's been about four years since we released the album 'ARIRANG' and started touring. We can really hear ARMY's voices today," marking the beginning of the concert.

The stage was a fusion of traditional Korean sentiment and modern aesthetics. In 'they don't know 'bout us', dancers carried video equipment displaying reinterpreted traditional masks, adding a mystical touch. The title track 'SWIM' utilized large fabrics to mimic waves, and the vibrant choreography of 'Merry Go Round' captivated the audience. In 'NORMAL', the silhouettes of the members on LED screens resembled a traditional ink painting, highlighting the pinnacle of Korean beauty.

BTS engaged with the massive crowd, creating an interactive experience. The overwhelming fan chants during 'FAKE LOVE' sent shivers through the stadium. The concert reached its peak with consecutive performances of 'Not Today', 'MIC Drop', 'FYA', and 'FIRE'. The powerful intro of 'MIC Drop' triggered a roar from the 40,000-strong audience. The new song 'Body to Body', incorporating the folk song 'Arirang', was a standout moment, with a performance reminiscent of traditional Korean circle dances, uniting global fans in a chorus of 'Arirang' and a sea of light sticks. During 'IDOL', the members traversed the entire stadium, making eye contact with fans, and continued the energy with global hits like 'Butter' and 'Dynamite'. A colorful fireworks display concluded the celebration.

Towards the end of the concert, BTS expressed their heartfelt gratitude, saying, "Thank you sincerely for your support. Although we are showing many changes under the name 'BTS 2.0', the most important thing remains unchanged: the seven of us decided to do this together, and our sincerity towards you. We will always humbly cherish the love that fills this space, so please trust us and watch over us generously." They concluded with a deep bow, promising, "We have many more stages to show you. We will repay you with diverse and wonderful performances."

Having set sail on their tour, BTS will continue with 85 shows across 34 cities, including Tokyo, North America, Europe, South America, and Asia, starting from April 17-18.

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