"JUST SWIM" Rain-Soaked but Unstoppable: BTS Successfully Launch 'BTS World Tour: ARIRANG'

BTS powered through a downpour to kick off their first world tour with full force. Soaked onstage, the members kept going―just like the title track “SWIM.”

On April 9, BTS opened the first show of the “BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’” at Goyang Stadium Main Arena. Even before doors, ARMY lined up from the nearby subway all the way around the venue, turning the area into a sea of purple excitement.

The concert faced tough conditions as rain fell before and during the show. Water pooled across the stage, raising concerns about injuries during high-impact choreography.

Still, the members never lost their smiles. They took the rain head-on and delivered rock-solid performances, while fans in rain ponchos answered with chants and cheers that didn’t let up.

JIMIN said, “Honestly, when I heard it was going to rain, I was really upset and stressed. I wanted to show you a perfect performance, but with the rain and my leg injury, I worried a lot. But the most important thing is seeing you. Not being able to meet you for the past four years was so hard. We’ll keep bringing you great stages. I’m so happy today.” His words drew a huge response.

The rain even became part of the show. V playfully did a swimming motion across a puddle onstage, earning big cheers, as the members physically embodied the message of their title track “SWIM.”

“SWIM” is an upbeat alternative pop track about pushing forward through life’s waves without stopping. RM led the lyric writing, channeling the members’ thoughts into the song. “We hope it gives strength to everyone living day by day,” they shared.

The production went big, using a 360-degree stage and show-like pacing that pulled fans right in. Even with the weather curveball, the team kept the performance tight and immersive.

BTS will follow the Goyang opener with a massive world tour: more than 80 shows across about 30 cities, including Tokyo, North America, Europe, South America, and Asia.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)