Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square overflowed with BTS fans on March 21 as thousands gathered to watch the group’s comeback live broadcast celebrating their fifth studio album, ARIRANG. The event, titled BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG, drew massive crowds despite no tickets being required for the public screening.
Huge Crowds and Record Viewership
Starting at 8 p.m., the square saw fans arriving as early as noon. Organizers estimate 22,000 to 24,000 ARMY members filled the area around the massive screens. The three-hour broadcast achieved a 91.9% viewership rating, with the first hour hitting 20.8%. Officials anticipate up to 260,000 daily visitors, marking the venue’s peak capacity once more.
Encore performances remain a highlight, with fans expecting hits like “Botong” at 1 a.m. and “Yakgan Bumpim” at 2 a.m. to keep the energy high into the night.
Electric Atmosphere and Global Fan Support
Even without entering the main stage, supporters cheered wildly at the screens displaying BTS. Banners proclaiming “Welcome ARMY” adorned nearby cafes, benches, and shops, creating a festival vibe. Merchandise sales surged as fans embraced the group’s return after three years and nine months.
Foreign enthusiasts joined the fray, waving ARMY bombs and preparing pre-concert sets. Special fan events catered to overseas online participants, ensuring global unity. One venue official noted, “It’s full house again—everyone came together.”
The gathering transformed Gwanghwamun into a sea of purple light sticks, underscoring BTS’s enduring appeal worldwide.
