BTS dazzles U.S. fans with multiple performances following successful release of 'ARIRANG'

BTS is finally back after their mandatory military service and since the release of their comeback album ARIRANG, they have been on a blazing trail.

Following the album drop sparked a string of exciting projects by the group, including the release of the 'SWIM' music video, their live comeback performance in Seoul, exciting fan activations in Seoul, London and New York and of course their comeback concert livestream. As their most recent endeavour, the group returned to America, playing their first concert there in four years, shaking up New York City with their confident dance moves and spectacular performances.

Spotify x BTS: SWIMSIDE fan event

Their run in America began with the intimate Spotify x BTS: SWIMSIDE fan event, which drew out some 1000 fans who were invited to watch their favourite idols on stage up close and personal. Having happened on 23 March at Pier 17 in New York City, the event began with the group having a question and answer session with none other than singer and actress Suki Waterhouse, as they reflected on their journey as musicians and the release of ARIRANG.

The Q and A began with a question relating to the single 'SWIM' as well as the experience behind recording ARIRANG after the comeback. Member Jin expressed how special the meaning behind the song was to them as it symbolised a sense of perseverance and swimming through the waves no matter how tough the current is and how intensely the undertow tries to pull you below the surface. Suga chimes in, sharing, "It was so much fun filming the music video" referring to the cinematic and ethereal voyage that the septet embarked on.

RM also went on to reveal that the group shared a living space when they recorded the album, being together in an apartment really making the space feel like home as they bonded over creating their fifth studio album. Lastly, J-Hope shared more about finally returning to perform in America as he expressed, "It’s been such a long time since we performed together [here], so I’m super nervous but very, very excited".

Following the introspective but fun interview, BTS took to the stage to perform three of the 14 tracks that ARIRANG boasts. They delivered an amazing performance of 'SWIM,' '2.0,' and 'Normal', leaving the crowd roaring with excitement.

The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Their performances in the U.S. did not end there as the group made their way for a super secret performance at The Guggenheim museum as part of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Fans went wild for the performance as each member donned an elegant monochromatic outfit leaving the group looking sharp and dapper as they glided across the stage performing 'SWIM' and '2.0'.

After the performance, BTS also sat down for an interview segment with Jimmy Fallon where they laughed over silly debates while also talking about what ARIRANG means to them and how it enriches their journey.

What's coming next?

With ARIRANG having hit the charts, fans are still soaking in and processing this iconic comeback, as they're being treated to performance after performance after such a long hiatus. BTS keep their comeback momentum going with their documentary BTS: The Return arriving on Netflix on 27 March, followed by BTS World Tour 'ARIRANG' Live Viewing premiering in theaters on 11 and 18 April.