BTS battle torrential rain to kick off $1bn world tour
BTS battle torrential rain to kick off $1bn world tour
During the launch of their global tour in Goyang Stadium, South Korea, BTS endured relentless weather conditions that turned the open-air event into a challenge. Heavy downpours soaked the stage and attendees throughout the performance, creating a stark contrast to the usual spectacle. V, one of the group’s members, described the situation as “raining like crazy,” while navigating puddles on the 360-degree stage. Suga humorously compared the venue to “a water park,” and Jimin admitted feeling “frustrated and stressed” from the damp environment.
Resilience amid adversity
Despite the weather, the band delivered an electrifying show, featuring a 23-song setlist. Their determination was evident as they pushed through the elements, energizing the crowd with high-octane performances. After a four-year break, during which each member completed mandatory military service, the group returned to the stage reinvigorated and eager to reconnect with fans. V even incorporated the rain into the act, lying on the soaked stage and mimicking a breaststroke while performing an impromptu rendition of their comeback single, *Swim*.
RM’s injury and the show’s tone
RM, the group’s leader, joked about his recent ankle injury, warning fans, “You might get hurt like me.” Though he performed from a stool in a promotional event last month, he was back on his feet for the opening night. However, during a fan interaction segment, he was carried around the stadium on a makeshift throne, hinting at lingering effects from his torn ligament. “It’s not that big of a deal,” he assured the crowd, emphasizing their collective focus on delivering a memorable show.
A new era with Arirang
The concert heavily featured their latest album, *Arirang*, which blends traditional Korean folk elements with their experimental pop style. Nearly all of the new tracks were included in the setlist, opening with a dramatic scene where a hooded figure ran onto the stage with a red flare as fans roared “BTS, BTS, BTS.” The performance leaned into harder-hitting songs, such as *Mic Drop* and *Run BTS*, rather than their signature melodic pop hits. This shift gave the show a more intense, driving energy, with the septet darting across catwalks and surrounded by pyrotechnics and LED lights.
Unexpected moments and fan dedication
Amidst the rain, fans showed unwavering enthusiasm, arriving as early as 06:30 to secure prime spots. They shared stories and snapped selfies beneath umbrellas, creating a sea of activity around the stadium. Even after the show began, hundreds without tickets braved the weather to watch from outside. A standout moment came when V and Jimin surprised the audience with an impromptu dance routine for *I Need U*, highlighting their bond and playful camaraderie. The set concluded with an extended version of *Idol*, the lead single from *Love Yourself: Answer*, as the band walked the stadium perimeter, inviting fans to chant the chorus from the crowd.
Contrasts and connections
While the concert featured fewer choreographed moves than previous tours, the raw, immediate energy resonated with audiences. This approach underscored their commitment to connecting with fans rather than relying on polished routines. The night’s atmosphere was marked by urgency and intensity, especially during *Not Today*, where dancers in hockey masks illuminated the stage with fluorescent lights. Despite the rain and challenges, the performance stood as a testament to BTS’s resilience and evolving artistry, blending tradition with innovation in a way that left fans both inspired and entertained.
