BTS will stage their long-awaited comeback for the entire group with one free public concert on Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square on March 21which marks their first collective stage appearance in more than three years. Seoul city officials have granted conditional approval for the event, paving the way for what is expected to be one of the most watched music moments of 2026.
The comeback show will coincide with the release of BTS’ fifth studio album, Arirangwhich arrives on March 20. According to city authorities, the performance will take place under the theme of “K-Heritage and K-Pop Convergence,” blending modern music with historical landmarks. Aside from Gwanghwamun Square, filming and production will extend to nearby cultural sites, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun Gate and Sungnyemun, HYBE confirmed, following conditional permission from the National Heritage Administration.
Officials approved the event pending a final security plan, with particular focus on crowd control, traffic disruptions and staggered exit times for performers and attendees. Organizers plan to admit about 18,000 fans through advance registration. The show will also be streamed live all over the worldgiving global audiences access to BTS’ first live performances from the new album.
Gwanghwamun’s appearance has symbolic weight. It represents BTS’ official return as a complete group after military service and places returning in one of South Korea’s most culturally significant public places. The choice of venue reflects the album’s title and concept, which draws from Korean musical heritage while positioning BTS within a global pop framework.
After the comeback show in Seoul, BTS will launch a new world tour starting on April 9 at the Goyang Sports Complexextending their return from a national moment to an international chapter.
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