K-pop group BTS kicked off their North American tour at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The concert, part of the 'BTS World Tour 'ARIRANG'', took place on August 1 and 2. This event came just two weeks after the group co-headlined the halftime show at the 2026 FIFA North America World Cup final at the same venue. It marked their first performance at MetLife Stadium in over seven years, following their 'BTS World Tour 'LOVE YOURSELF: SPEAK YOURSELF'' concert in May 2019.
All shows sold out quickly, attracting approximately 157,000 fans over the two days. The stadium, which was filled with soccer fans two weeks prior, was now awash with the glow of BTS's official light sticks, known as ARMY Bombs.
Fans of various ages and nationalities gathered around the venue, showcasing a festive atmosphere with outfits inspired by traditional Korean hanbok, red-themed fashion reflecting the key color of their fifth album 'ARIRANG', and tributes to the members' stage costumes.
As the concert began, the audience sang along to the Korean lyrics, creating a strong connection with BTS. The excitement peaked when the intro to 'Aliens', a track from 'ARIRANG', played, followed by a massive sing-along during the title track 'SWIM'. The members engaged with the crowd by passing the microphone to fans.
A highlight of the tour was the audience's rendition of the traditional Korean folk song 'Arirang'. Toward the end of the concert, fans participated in a coordinated event, raising flower-shaped placards, and a spectacular fireworks display lit up the night sky during the final song, 'Into the Sun'.
BTS expressed their enthusiasm, stating, "The start of our second North American tour is off to a great start. We feel energized by this performance and are committed to delivering great shows for the rest of the tour. We will never take your love for granted. Thank you always, and we love you."
About 30 major media outlets from South Korea and the U.S. covered the event. Billboard reported that BTS showcased their true talent during the 2.5-hour 'ARIRANG' concert, following their appearance at the World Cup halftime show. American hip-hop artist Nas was also in attendance, and RM shared his excitement on stage, saying, "It feels amazing to perform in front of my teenage idols."
In conjunction with the concert, a citywide event titled 'BTS THE CITY ARIRANG - NEW YORK' was held. The Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center was decorated with the 'ARIRANG' album logo, and BTS's music played throughout the venue. Special BTS-themed menu items were also offered at the on-site restaurant.
Grand Central Terminal featured a DIY T-shirt station, allowing concertgoers and passing citizens to join in the fun.
BTS will continue their North American tour, with the next concert scheduled for August 5-6 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. They will become the first Korean artists to hold a solo concert at Gillette Stadium.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.