BTS release new album Arirang ahead of comeback concert

K-pop stars BTS released a new album on Friday billed as reflecting the maturing boy band’s Korean roots and identity, as buzz built ahead of their open-air comeback concert in the heart of Seoul. The Saturday night gig, which is expected to draw around 260,000 people, will be BTS’s first after a hiatus of almost four years while all seven members served compulsory military service.

It comes ahead of an 82-date world tour. Excitement grew in Seoul, with hotels long since booked out and thousands flying in from overseas. Streets were festooned with purple-and-blue “Welcome BTS + ARMY” signs, and new pop-up stores and convenience shops sold hoodies, wallets and figurines.

Fans Mara Cristia Yao and Rodessa Ericka Bonon, from the Philippines, said they would stay in the area despite not having concert tickets: “We are just going to come to this area anyway. We are figuring out where to position ourselves tomorrow.” The group is expected to perform the new album, which they reportedly spent time in Los Angeles recording.

South Korea, Seoul

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