BTS battle torrential rain to kick off $1bn world tour
BTS Battle Torrential Rain to Kick Off $1bn World Tour
In Goyang Stadium, South Korea, BTS faced the elements as they launched their global tour, which promises to generate over a billion dollars in revenue. The open-air event was marred by relentless downpours, soaking both the group and their audience. Despite the conditions, the septet delivered a high-energy performance, featuring a 23-song lineup that showcased their evolving musical style.
Weather-Defying Performance
RM, who recently suffered an ankle injury during rehearsals, humorously warned fans, “You might get hurt like me,” as he navigated the rain-soaked stage. The leader’s injury was evident during a “meet the audience” segment, where he was carried around on a makeshift throne, hinting that his torn ligament still needed time to heal. However, he insisted, “It’s not that big of a deal. We just wanted to give it our all today.”
“It’s raining like crazy,” said V, splashing through puddles on the 360-degree stage.
“A water park,” remarked Suga, comparing the venue to a playful yet chaotic environment.
“I’m frustrated and stressed,” admitted Jimin, though he quickly shifted focus to the crowd’s presence.
While the weather tested their resilience, the band’s chemistry shone through. During the encore, V and Jimin spontaneously performed a dance routine for I Need U, surprising their bandmates and highlighting their enduring camaraderie. This moment of spontaneity contrasted with the tightly choreographed segments of their previous tours, adding an unscripted warmth to the evening.
A New Musical Chapter
The concert heavily featured their latest album, Arirang, which blends traditional Korean folk music with the group’s experimental pop sound. Only one of the band’s new tracks was omitted from the setlist, as they opened with a dramatic entrance involving a hooded figure and a red flare. The performance of Hooligan—a fiery rap track—set a tone of intensity, with RM joking about needing “a bigger mop” to handle the chaos.
Unlike their earlier world tours, this event leaned toward more robust, energetic tracks such as Mic Drop and Run BTS, rather than their signature melodic pop hits. The stage design, with catwalks, pyrotechnics, and LED lights, amplified this dynamic feel, as the members sprinted across the venue, engaging fans directly. Even after the rain began, hundreds of ticketless attendees braved the elements to witness the show, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
One standout moment was the impromptu rendition of Swim, during which V lay on the wet stage, mimicking a breaststroke while the group performed. This playful gesture underscored their ability to adapt and thrive under pressure. The set also included Not Today, a track dedicated to underdogs worldwide, surrounded by dancers in hockey masks and fluorescent lights, evoking a sense of urgency and power.
Legacy and Reunion
After a four-year break to complete mandatory military service, the band returned with renewed vigor. Their performance reflected this reinvigoration, as they embraced a bolder, more experimental sound. While the rain dampened the stage, it didn’t dim the fans’ enthusiasm—many arrived at 06:30 to secure prime spots, creating a sea of umbrellas and shared excitement around the stadium.
With the main set concluding in an extended version of Idol, the lead single from their 2018 album Love Yourself: Answer, the band moved through the crowd, inviting fans to join in the chorus. The encore, a celebration of their artistry, left the audience energized, marking the start of what promises to be an unforgettable global journey.
