BTS Launches 'ARIRANG' World Tour Amidst a Purple Wave in Goyang

BTS officially launched their "ARIRANG" world tour on April 9, 2026, at the Goyang Sports Complex Main Stadium. Despite spring rain, thousands of fans in purple raincoats attended the first of three sold-out performances.

Key Facts

• The opening leg includes three shows at Goyang Stadium on April 9, 11, and 12.
• A 360-degree stage design accommodates over 40,000 spectators per show, totaling an estimated 120,000 attendees.
• Goyang City illuminated local landmarks, including the stadium and the Ilsan Lake Park Singing Fountain, with purple lighting.
• Authorities conducted safety inspections of emergency routes, medical systems, and local lodging hygiene.
• International fans from Italy, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia traveled to attend the opening night.
• Fans gathered near stadium exits during sound check as "Hooligan" played inside the venue.
• A BTS handprinting exhibition is open at the Goyang Tourism Information Center through April 12.

Key Terms

• ARMY: The official global fandom of BTS.
• 360-degree stage: A central stage layout surrounded by the audience on all sides.
• ARIRANG: The title of BTS’s 2026 world tour, featuring traditional Korean aesthetics.

Key Quote

"Since it is a 360-degree stage, the atmosphere for each song will feel different. That is the biggest highlight of this tour. The production feels like a theatrical show, and the Korean aesthetic elements are also a point of interest." — J-Hope

Next

• BTS will perform two additional shows in Goyang on April 11 and 12.
• The special handprinting exhibition remains open to the public through April 12.