BTS is gearing up for a grand homecoming. The group is planning a full-scale comeback stage at Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Plaza to usher in their fifth studio album, "ARIRANG".
According to YTN on the 19th, the septet is eyeing Gwanghwamun Plaza for their first performance as a complete lineup ahead of a world tour kicking off in April, timed to the album’s March 20 release. HYBE has reportedly prioritized the Plaza as the venue that best captures the comeback’s symbolism and message, and is in talks with the Seoul Metropolitan Government, police, and the Cultural Heritage Administration to make it happen.
"ARIRANG" marks BTS’s first full-group release in about three years and nine months since "Proof", and their first studio album in roughly six years and one month since "Map of the Soul: 7." With the long-awaited reunion on deck, all eyes are on where they’ll stage that pivotal first performance. The group has a history of spotlighting Korean heritage on the global stage, having filmed and performed at landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, as well as Sungnyemun (Namdaemun). If the Gwanghwamun Plaza plan comes together, the moment could fuse K-pop with Korean history and culture in a striking way.
Speaking on a fan live stream on the 16th, RM explained the album title: “As a team of seven Koreans, we wanted to show where we come from. People interpret 'ARIRANG' differently, but I think it carries emotions like longing, yearning, and love.” He added that those feelings surfaced naturally during his military service as he reflected on past performances and fans.
HYBE’s application to use and film around Gwanghwamun Plaza, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Sungnyemun is set to be reviewed by the Cultural Heritage Committee on the 20th at 2 p.m. The event has been filed under the working title “K-Heritage X K-Pop Fusion Performance.”
Given the Plaza’s track record as a site for major civic gatherings and public celebrations, crowd safety is expected to be a top priority if the show is approved. HYBE and government agencies are said to be coordinating on headcount, crowd flow, and on-site control measures.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)