Seoul is bracing for a citywide cultural event as BTS prepares to release its new album, “ARIRANG,” on March 20, with a free comeback concert scheduled for March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square. The announcement follows a period of anticipation fueled by cryptic messages appearing in cities worldwide asking, “What is your love song?”
The “ARIRANG” era marks the group’s first release and world tour since each member completed mandatory military service. The Arirang World Tour is set to start on April 9, 2026, in Goyang, South Korea, and will span 82 dates across 34 cities in 23 countries through 2027. The comeback performance will be livestreamed from Seoul, with a documentary chronicling their return arriving on Netflix on March 27.
Beyond the concert, “BTS The City Arirang Seoul,” an immersive program running from March 20 to April 12, will transform landmarks across the South Korean capital. Sungnyemun and N Seoul Tower will feature large-scale media facades on the album’s release date, blending traditional architecture with modern art. At Sungnyemun, media art will be projected onto the historic gate, aiming to connect global audiences with Korean cultural heritage. Yeouido Han River Park will host a lounge-style program for fans through March 22, offering a space to relax and enjoy BTS’ music.
GQ’s March issue features an in-depth cover story with BTS, where members discussed their experiences following their military service and offered a preview of the new album. Suga described “ARIRANG” as a departure from their previous work, promising a “more mature side of BTS.” Jung Kook characterized the songwriting process as “very liberating and free.”
The launch of “ARIRANG” is accompanied by a surge in activity surrounding the group. Seoul police are preparing for large crowds, and tour dates overseas have already sold out. BigHit Music collaborated with the Seoul Metropolitan Government to curate the citywide events, aiming to offer both tourists and citizens new cultural experiences. Downtown Seoul will also be transformed in April, with stone walls, staircases, and streets becoming open-air exhibition spaces interpreting BTS lyrics through light and video art.
The North American and European legs of the Arirang World Tour will begin on April 25, 2026, in Tampa, Florida, with presale tickets available starting January 22, 2026, and general on-sale beginning January 24, 2026.
