Photo : YONHAP News
Major United States and international media outlets praised BTS’s comeback concert in central Seoul on Saturday, comparing it to the Super Bowl halftime show and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.
Coverage highlighted elements such as the new album title “Arirang,” the choice of Gwanghwamun Square as the venue, and stage outfits inspired by traditional Korean aesthetics as symbols of Korea’s expanding cultural influence.
The New York Times described the concert at the “historic center” of Seoul as a “grand homecoming for a pivotal force of South Korean soft power.”
CNN noted that the show was directed by Hamish Hamilton, known for major global events including the Super Bowl halftime show, calling it an indication of the scale of BTS’s return.
Rolling Stone wrote that BTS pushed their music into “adventurous new territory” while emphasizing both their group identity and Korean roots.
European outlets also gave prominent coverage, with the BBC calling the performance at Seoul’s historic center a “rare honor paid to the seven idols who have become the face of Korea’s cultural success.”