K-pop act BTS / Courtesy of BigHit Music
BTS will mark its return as a full group after a three-year and nine-month hiatus with a historic performance at Gwanghwamun Square, potentially entering the stage via Seoul’s royal ceremonial path.
The K-pop juggernaut is scheduled to hold "BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG" at 8 p.m. on March 21 to celebrate the release of the group's new studio album, "Arirang." It will be the first solo concert by a pop act in the history of the square, a space traditionally reserved for political or national events.
BigHit Music said the location was chosen to reflect the album’s themes.
"The new album 'Arirang' captures BTS' origins, identity and the emotions they wish to convey right now," the agency said in a statement. "Given the symbolism of the word 'Arirang,' we wanted to stage their first postmilitary performance in the space that best represents Korea."
BTS pose in front of Geunjeongjeon Hall of Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul, where the band filmed a performance for the "BTS Week" special on NBC's "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" in this 2020 file photo. Courtesy of BigHit Music
The group is currently negotiating a dramatic entrance with the National Heritage Administration and the Seoul Metropolitan Government. According to the permit application, members would process through the "King’s Road" — moving from Geunjeongmun and Heungnyemun gates inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, through the main Gwanghwamun gate, and onto the woldae (elevated ceremonial platform) to reach the stage.
While the plan adds historical weight to the "Return of the King" narrative, the long procession route has raised concerns about crowd control in the open plaza.
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Authorities are bracing for up to 260,000 attendees, prompting a proactive security stance.
Source: Korea Times News
