- By Swati Singh
- Sat, 21 Mar 2026 03:48 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
After a four-year hiatus, BTS are set to return to the global stage, with Seoul witnessing a significant surge in fan activity. The city has been visibly transformed with purple-themed displays, reflecting the group’s strong fan culture. Thousands of ARMY members from across the world have already gathered in the South Korean capital, creating a lively atmosphere in the lead-up to the group’s much-awaited comeback.
The highlight of the comeback is a free concert at Gwanghwamun Square, set against Gyeongbokgung Palace. While 22,000 tickets have been issued, the crowd could swell to nearly 260,000, with many fans expected to watch from nearby streets on large screens.
Visuals online reveal a grand, decorated entrance and large-scale preparations, hinting at a landmark moment in Kpop history. BTS’ return comes after nearly four years, following mandatory military service that began in 2022, with Suga completing his duty in June 2025. The comeback also aligns with their fifth studio album Arirang, marking the start of a new chapter for the group.
Seoul is ready. 9 HOURS TO GO.
— netflix⁷ (@netflix) March 21, 2026
#BTSLiveonNetflix #BTS_ARIRANG pic.twitter.com/G9Vx7ZCEnx
.@bts_bighit takes over Shinsegae Square 🎶✨ They appeared on the Seoul facade with the “SWIM” MV, greeting fans in a surprise moment.#BTS #BTS_Comeback #BTSComeback2026 #BTS_ARIRANG #BTS_SWIM pic.twitter.com/Y01DaenjwG
— KpopHerald (@Kpop_Herald) March 20, 2026
BTS 컴백, 서울에서 시작된 카운트다운
— seoul_4k (@seoul_4k) March 15, 2026
/ The BTS Comeback Countdown Begins in Seoul#BTS #BTS_ARIRANG #BTSLiveonNetflix #BTScomeback #BTS2026 pic.twitter.com/5xOxtWaLB1
Seoul Turns Purple For BTS' ARIRANG Concert
According to a tweet, every shop in Myeongdong is buzzing with BTS music. At a store called Shoe Market, customers even get a 6,000 won discount if they show a purple item—aptly named the “Purple Discount”.
Gwanghwamun Square is glowing in shades of purple, creating a breathtaking and emotional sight. The entire space looks beautifully lit, capturing the spirit of the moment and leaving fans in awe.
Seoul takes on a more special charm, with its nightscape glowing softly in hues that feel almost purple. The city lights create a calm, magical atmosphere, making every moment feel unique—even if seen before, nights in Seoul never look or feel the same twice.
Every shop in Myeondong is playing BTS. 💜. In this shop called Shoe market, they give 6,000 won discount if you show them items that are purple. They call it the Purple discount 💜😁 pic.twitter.com/EKEsww6YmD
— Abee ⦿ ☰ ☲ (@askydoodles) March 20, 2026
Gwanghwamun Square glowing in purple 💜 Beautiful 🥹#BTS_ARİRANG #BTSLiveonNetlix pic.twitter.com/DkiUYtFOsg
— ᴘʀɪɴᴄᴇssᴇ ᴘᴀᴛᴀᴛᴇ (@sodyna18) March 19, 2026
[Korea NightView]
— VonTidal (@VonTidal) March 16, 2026
💜A Purple Night in Seoul
As March 21 approaches, the city feels a little more special.
Seoul's night lights glowing softly, almost like they're turning purple.
Some of these moments were captured before, but nights in Seoul never feel the same twice.
A city,… pic.twitter.com/0tdIOf9U8g
