K-pop group BTS launched its highly anticipated global concert tour on Thursday in the South Korean city of Goyang, beginning a multi-continent run expected to generate record-breaking revenue.
The group’s World Tour “ARIRANG” opened with three shows scheduled for April 9, 11 and 12 at Goyang Stadium, before expanding to 34 cities worldwide. The tour marks one of the largest concert schedules ever undertaken by a K-pop act, reflecting the group’s continued global popularity.
Tickets for the opening shows sold out during pre-sale, while additional allocations across South Korea, North America and Europe were snapped up within hours, according to the group’s management agency.
Analysts estimate that total earnings from the tour could reach up to 2.7 trillion won ($1.81 billion), excluding additional revenue from merchandise, travel and other fan spending. The concerts feature a 360-degree in-the-round stage design, aimed at offering immersive viewing experiences across all venues.
Fans began gathering at Goyang Stadium hours before the opening performance, despite rain, with many wearing purple-themed outfits symbolizing the group’s fanbase, known as ARMY.
The concert comes after a period of hiatus that began in 2022, during which all seven members completed South Korea’s mandatory military service by mid-2025. The group reunited to release their fifth studio album, also titled “ARIRANG,” in March.
The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and remained there for two weeks, marking a milestone for a K-pop group. Its lead single, “Swim,” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 before slipping to No. 2 in its second week.
Industry observers say the tour reinforces BTS’s status as one of the most influential global music acts, with strong demand expected to continue as the group expands its international presence.