The fifth studio album 'ARIRANG' will be released on March 20.
A new world tour will commence starting April 9.
[TV Daily - Kim Ji-ha] The globally popular group BTS is gearing up for a comeback concert in the Gwanghwamun area of Seoul. On January 19th, a representative from Big Hit Music revealed to TV Daily that discussions regarding the concert are ongoing, and details about the venue and schedule will be announced officially once finalized. According to industry sources, HYBE has recently applied for venue usage permits at key locations such as Gwanghwamun Square and Gyeongbokgung Palace for BTS's upcoming performance.
Tentatively titled 'K-Heritage and K-Pop Fusion Performance,' the event is set for a deliberation by the Cultural Heritage Committee of the Cultural Heritage Administration on January 20th at 2 PM. BTS is set to release their fifth studio album, 'ARIRANG,' on March 20th, marking their first full group album after their military service. This will be their first album since the release of 2022's anthology, 'Proof,' nearly three years and nine months ago.
The new album will include 14 tracks, which encapsulate the group's identity rooted in Korea and their deep nostalgia for their homeland. The title 'ARIRANG,' also refers to a traditional Korean folk song, symbolizing the emotions BTS aims to convey through this album. Following the album's release, BTS will embark on a new world tour starting from Goyang Sports Complex on April 9th, covering 34 cities and 79 performances, aiming to enhance audience immersion with a 360-degree stage setup, blurring the lines between artist and fan interactions.
BTS's upcoming concert is anticipated to be more than just an event; it represents a crucial platform that showcases both the identity of K-pop and the cultural significance of Korea. The tentative title 'K-Heritage and K-Pop Fusion Performance' encapsulates an effort to harmonize traditional Korean folk music with contemporary pop, providing a direct experience of Korean identity for a global audience. Moreover, Gwanghwamun, as the selected venue, holds a significant place in Korean history, symbolizing the coexistence of tradition and modernity.
The album 'ARIRANG' marks BTS's first full-group release post-military service and is expected to convey meaningful messages and emotions. The title 'ARIRANG,' a traditional folk song, resonates deeply with Koreans, serving as a bridge for fans of diverse cultural backgrounds to connect with the Korean sentiment. BTS's activities have played a pivotal role in expanding Korean popular music to the world stage, and this new album continues their musical journey.
The forthcoming world tour is also projected to have significant implications for the K-pop industry. Given BTS's immense global appeal, this tour spanning 34 cities and 79 performances provides a substantial opportunity for engagement with fans. Such a large-scale tour not only signifies BTS's growth but also elevates the global presence of K-pop, underscoring its relevance in the international music scene.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: TV Daily