K-Pop sensations BTS (방탄소년단) finally kicked off their highly anticipated “ARIRANG” world tour last night, completing the first show out of many to come. Despite the downpour, the show concluded on a spectacular note, leaving fans with tons of memorable moments.
The tour’s inaugural concert kicked off on 9th April 2026 (Thursday), bringing together fans from around the world at the Goyang Stadium in Seoul. The “ARIRANG” tour will visit 34 cities worldwide for a total of 85 shows, including two in Kuala Lumpur in December. Yesterday’s show is one of three at the Goyang Stadium, with the next two shows scheduled for 11th (Saturday) and 12th April (Sunday).
@billboard Just keep swimming, BTS ☔️ The group performs “Swim” at their first Arirang world tour date in Goyang #bts #arirang #swim #arirangworldtour
@wkorea 고양을 함성으로 가득 채운 BTS-Butter🧈 #editor_윤다희 – #방탄소년단 #BTS #butter #arirang
As the tour supports BTS’s latest release of the same name, which was released last month, most of the setlist is songs from the album. However, the BTS members also performed some of their older hits, including “I Need U”, “Dynamite” and “Butter”. Unfortunately, the open-air concert venue meant that the stage was left drenched by the heavy rain, forcing the members to skip most of their iconic choreographies.
Nevertheless, BTS gave their all and delivered a high-energy performance. Funnily enough, the rain also presented the members with a few opportunities to showcase their comedic side. At one point during the show, V even lay down on the soaked stage and pretended to do a breast stroke, before referencing the group’s comeback single, “Swim”. Suga also likened the venue to a water park.
@vendykonecna #bts V and his #swim at todays concert 😆❤️🔥 #v #btsconcert #arirang
The ARMYs also returned the same high-octane energy, loudly cheering and enthusiastically waving their lightsticks to support their idols. Even with the rain, many showed up to the show in BTS-inspired outfits, paying homage to the group through fashion. It’s also worth noting that the 3-day concert in Seoul is sold out, highlighting BTS’s enduring popularity despite the group’s military hiatus.
All in all, even with the weather setbacks, the first show of the “ARIRANG” tour was a success, with fans eager to see more. After the Seoul show, the group will perform in Tokyo, Japan, before heading to other cities.
