Global fans throng merchandise booths as BTS prepares return
by Park Sae-jin, Kim Hee-suPosted : March 21, 2026, 19:31Updated : March 21, 2026, 19:31
Staff members guide fans at a BTS merchandise pickup booth near Gwanghwamun during the group’s comeback event in Seoul on March 21, 2026. AJP Kim Hee-su
SEOUL, March 21 (AJP) - Fans from across the globe gathered at official BTS merchandise booths in central Seoul on Saturday, marking a festive prelude to the first major performance by the group following a prolonged hiatus. The process for purchasing items, including a new lightstick for the seven-member group, was governed by a strict reservation system to manage crowds and prevent unauthorized resale.
Lana Ro, 25, Russia, shows a BTS apparel, is seen packaged after purchase at a pickup booth in Seoul on March 21, 2026. AJP Kim Hee-su
Lana Ro, 25, from Russia, bought two lightsticks—one for herself and one for her friend. Having followed the group for three years, she focused on the specific design of the items. "I bought a special edition of the lightstick just now," she said. She also selected apparel in various colors. "These are T-shirts in different colors. I bought one white and one red," she said.
Lana Ro, 25, Russia shows a BTS apparel, is seen packaged after purchase at a pickup booth in Seoul on March 21, 2026. AJP Kim Hee-su
The scene near the stalls remained orderly as fans of different ages and nationalities waited to buy exclusive merchandise ranging from apparel to limited-edition collectibles. While there were no long lines due to the reservation system, the area remained active with fans taking photos and exchanging small gifts.
Adrniana, 25, from America, poses for a photo near the BTS MD Booth in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, on March 21, 2026. AJP Kim Hee-su
Adriana, an American teaching in Seoul for six months, was among those who secured a large volume of products. She moved through the area holding a full load of items in both hands, representing the diverse demographic that has traveled to the capital for the event. The atmosphere remained focused on the shared experience of the fandom and the tactile connection to the group through these products.
Ami Ostrovskaia, 23, Russia, who is a BTS fan shows a tattoo and wristband at the comeback event venue in Seoul on March 21, 2026. AJP Kim Hee-su
Ami Ostrovskaia, 23, from Russia, has been a fan of the group for six years. On Saturday, she limited her purchase at the booth to a single item. "I only bought a lightstick today. We will go to the pop-up store in Shinsegae Department Store," she said. For Ostrovskaia, who was interested in a wider range of apparel, the cost of the clothing kept her from a shopping spree.
Each T-shirt at the booth is priced at 59,000 won. Ostrovskaia expressed a particular interest in the designs featuring the members, but had to hold back due to her budget. "I like the T-shirt with black-and-white photos of the seven members. I want to have each one of them, but I don’t have enough money," she said.
Fans collect pre-ordered BTS merchandise at the Weverse pickup booth near Gwanghwamun, set up for the group’s comeback event in Seoul on March 21, 2026. AJP Kim Hee-su
Despite the financial considerations, she described her connection to the group as a personal support system. Showing a tattoo related to her fandom, she explained the role the members have played in her life. "I think it’s because they’re always saving me when I go through really rough times. They’re always there to help me, to listen to me," she said.
The booths are scheduled to remain open throughout the evening as the city prepares for the start of the performance.
Fans gather near the merchandise pickup area ahead of BTS’ comeback performance in Seoul on March 21, 2026. AJP Kim Hee-su
