BTS Return with Seoul Concert: ‘The Comeback Live’ & ‘Arirang’ Album Details

BTS performed a full concert Saturday in Seoul, marking the group’s first performance together in nearly four years as members complete mandatory military service. The “BTS the Comeback Live | Arirang” event, streamed live from Gwanghwamun Square, featured a 12-song setlist drawing from both established hits and the group’s newly released album, ARIRANG.

The performance began with a blend of traditional Korean instrumentation and contemporary staging, with dancers creating a pathway for the group’s entrance. BTS greeted the audience with “Hello, Seoul! We’re back,” according to reports from the event.

The concert’s production incorporated elements of Korean culture, set against the backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace. References to the traditional folk song “Arirang” and visual motifs inspired by the Taegeuk and geongongamri symbols were featured throughout the show.

The Modern York Times described the concert as “a grand homecoming for a pivotal force of South Korean soft power.” The publication noted the performance leaned heavily on new material from ARIRANG, while still including some of the group’s most popular songs. The New York Times also reported that RM performed with an ankle injury, occasionally using a stool during the performance but continuing to participate fully.

The Hollywood Reporter characterized the concert as a “dynamic and engaging showcase” of the new album, highlighting the group’s return to the global stage via a live Netflix broadcast from the historic Seoul landmark.

The setlist included fan favorites such as “Butter,” “MIC Drop,” and “Dynamite,” alongside eight songs from ARIRANG performed live for the first time: “Body to Body,” “Hooligan,” “2.0,” “Aliens,” “FYA,” “SWIM,” “Like Animals,” and “NORMAL.” The show concluded with performances of “Dynamite” and “Mikrokosmos,” prompting sing-alongs from the audience.

ARIRANG, the album, was released Friday and has received positive reviews. The concert served as a live debut for the album’s tracks, offering fans a first look at the new material in a live setting.