BTS Returns as a Full Group for First Time in 3 Years and 9 Months with March Gwanghwamun Live Performance for “Arirang”

BTS, who have completed their military service, is returning as a full group for the first time in 3 years and 9 months with their fifth studio album “Arirang.” The new album will be released on March 20, followed by a “BTS Comeback Live: Arirang” concert at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul at 8 p.m. on March 21. This performance, which will be streamed live worldwide via Netflix, is expected to attract approximately 300 million viewers globally.

The venue holds significant historical importance. The concert route begins at Gyeongbokgung’s Geunjeongjeon hall, passes through Heungnyemun Gate, and continues along the traditional “King’s Road” to Gwanghwamun. By combining the long history of Joseon Dynasty with the essence of 21st-century K-pop, this event is poised to become a new milestone for K-culture.

“Arirang” is a fifth studio album consisting of 14 tracks in total. The title track “SWIM” is an upbeat alternative pop song that conveys the message of navigating life’s ups and downs at one’s own pace. The members collaborated with world-renowned producers such as Diplo, Ryan Tedder, and El Guincho in Los Angeles last summer to create this album. RM personally contributed to the lyrics of the title track.

Other tracks included in the album are “Body to Body,” “Hooligan,” “Aliens,” “FYA,” “2.0,” “No.29,” “Merry Go Round,” “NORMAL,” “Like Animals,” “they don’t know ‘bout us,” “One More Night,” “Please,” and “Into the Sun.” The concert has gained even more attention due to Hamish Hamilton serving as its director, having previously orchestrated events like the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics and the Super Bowl halftime show in the United States.