BTS performed their first UK show in years at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Monday night, launching the Arirang World Tour after all seven members completed South Korea's mandatory 18-month military service. The band enlisted between 2022 and 2023, with members like Jin serving as an assistant drill instructor and RM in the military band, who admitted "not everything was fun and enjoyable" during conscription.
Anticipation and Fan Fever
Fans, known as the Army, showed overwhelming dedication. Tickets sold out rapidly, and a special BTS Arirang pop-up store on Oxford Street filled booking slots almost instantly. The London Eye was lit red in honor of the band. Showbiz Editor Jess Phillips noted, "BTS fever was already spreading around London as I headed to the venue – I spotted merch-toting superfans everywhere."
Concert Highlights
The set opened with the rap-heavy Hooligan, followed by act one tracks. A sweat-soaked Jimin declared, "It was f***ing hot!" The 2026 single SWIM was a highlight, but the encore track Butter drew the biggest reaction. The band performed two secret songs – Life Goes On and Dionysus – bringing anticipation to fever pitch. The night ended with a firework spectacular as fans screamed for Jimin and RM.
Tour and Impact
The Arirang World Tour continues into 2027, with upcoming dates in Munich, Paris, the US (Los Angeles, Chicago), Canada, South America, Asia, and Australia. Phillips described the experience as "So. Worth. It." despite a 40-minute exit delay from the stadium. BTS became the first Korean act to secure a number one album in the UK, underscoring their massive local fanbase.
