BTS fans divided after ARIRANG world tour kickoff in Seoul

BTS kicked off their ARIRANG World Tour with a concert in Seoul on April 9, drawing mixed reactions from fans over the group’s performance style and production choices.

The show, held at Goyang Stadium, ran for more than two and a half hours and featured 23 songs from their latest album alongside popular hits such as “Dynamite” and “Idol.” 

The performance included multiple segments blending live stages, talking portions and video interludes.

Following the concert, fans took to social media to share varied opinions. Some expressed disappointment over reduced choreography, limited audience interaction and the absence of solo stages. 

Others raised concerns about stage design and overall production quality, while heavy rain during the event was also cited as a factor affecting the experience.

However, many supporters defended the group, pointing to the challenges posed by weather conditions and the demands of a long global tour.

The setlist included tracks like “Run BTS,” “Fake Love,” “Butter” and “Permission to Dance,” along with the first live performance of “Come Over.” Members also revisited choreography from earlier songs during the show.

In a recent interview, producer Bang Si-hyuk said the group intentionally prioritised musical performance over intense choreography, signaling a shift in their concert approach for this tour.