ARMYs recount heartfelt memories from BTS’ comeback live at the historic Gwanghwamun Square
2026-03-26Global juggernaut BTS made their highly anticipated comeback after four years with their fifth studio album ‘Arirang’, which was released on March 20. As part of their promotions, the septet held a free live performance at the historic Gwanghwamun Square, which, according to HYBE, was attended by 104,000 people. The performance was also live-streamed on Netflix to over 190 countries and attracted 18.4 million viewers.
For many fans, the event was deeply emotional and long-awaited. As an ARMY of nine years, it was a truly memorable experience for me, and this sentiment was echoed by fellow ARMYs, who had eagerly awaited the group’s return.
Alina Menshakova from Russia, who is pursuing a master’s degree in Korean Cultural Studies from the Academy of Korean Studies, has been an ARMY since 2019. She attended the comeback performance at Gwanghwamun Square on March 21. Reflecting on her experience, she said, “It was incredible to witness such a historical event in person while knowing that so many people around the world were watching it at the same time. Being at Gwanghwamun Square, a site where several historical events have unfolded, made it even more special, especially knowing that my favourite artists became the first ones to hold a stage there. Although we watched them on screen, the energy of the fans was dazzling. We could see BTS perform their latest songs as well as three old hits, and all the details of the performances, right from their costumes to the choreography, were beautiful! We sang and danced wholeheartedly while ensuring that we were also respectful towards each other.”
Menshakova also praised the event’s excellent organization and emphasis on safety, given the huge number of people it attracted, which ensured that the audience could enjoy the event safely.
Also present at the event was Pooja Kaliraman, an Indian pursuing a master’s degree in Global Economics at Sunmoon University, who became an ARMY in 2020 after listening to BTS’ ‘Spring Day’. She was initially drawn to their music and message purely out of curiosity. However, it soon developed into a meaningful connection. Their music, lyrics, and personalities resonated strongly with her, offering comfort and inspiration during a difficult time in 2020, when she felt they truly helped her through. Therefore, this comeback was more meaningful for her.
Describing the experience at the event, she said, “My experience was honestly surreal. The energy and atmosphere were incredible. I became emotional as I have been dreaming about this moment for years. I had goosebumps throughout, and when it ended, I couldn’t stop crying. Meeting fellow ARMYs made the experience even more special. Additionally, the police and security staff ensured that we had a wonderful and safe experience. I had waited six years for this moment, and it was truly worth every second. This is just the beginning for the BTS 2.0.”
For ARMYs who could not join the event in person, Netflix’s live-stream provided a meaningful way to connect with the artists. Yulia Veselchakova from Russia was one such ARMY.
Veselchakova discovered BTS in 2019 when her daughter showed her the video of ‘Spring Day’. She believes that the group came into her life at the right time, helping her through difficult moments while giving her strength and confidence. They also inspired her to dance, explore K-pop, learn Korean, and engage with Korean culture, eventually leading her to participate in the Honorary Reporters program and shape meaningful goals and a deep love for Korea.
For Veselchakova, too, this comeback after almost four years was significant. Recounting the experience of watching them perform again, she said, “The ‘Arirang’ album feels fresh and amazing within BTS’s discography, and I was impressed by it. Their performance at Gwanghwamun Square was equally stunning! Their music, costumes, and traditional accompaniment felt vivid and immersive, even through the screen. I couldn’t hold back my tears while watching them. They have faced many hardships and have come a long way. I believe this was once their dream, though even they may not have imagined achieving such extraordinary success. That is why I am incredibly proud of them.”
Meanwhile, since its release, ‘Arirang’ has achieved several milestones, including becoming the most-streamed K-pop album in Spotify history, setting the record for the biggest single-day streams for any album released in 2026 so far, recording the highest first-day sales in Hanteo Chart history (3.98 million copies), and achieving the biggest first-day streams for a pop album by a group in Apple Music history, to name a few.
*This article was written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.
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