BTS supporters gathered on Monday to commemorate the boy band’s debut ten years ago in the heart of Seoul, the city of South Korea.
Many of the group’s devoted worldwide following, known as “ARMY,” gathered in Seoul this week despite the fact that the group is on hiatus and two of its members are now performing mandatory military service.
The seven-member group established the foundation for K-Pop’s global success, notably in the U.S. music charts and industry awards, and has amassed a sizable international fan base as a result.
Numerous BTS fans travelled from France, Mexico, and other countries to take in the sights as landmarks like Seoul City Hall and Namsan Tower were illuminated in the group’s characteristic shade of purple.
“I came to Korea last week and I am very surprised and excited to see the Namsan Tower purple,” said Rita, a 20-year-old student studying in France.
Organisations and companies are also participating in the celebration, and the city of Seoul is collaborating with BTS’ management agency HYBE to organise a tour of BTS-related locations. The postal service of South Korea issued unique commemorative stamps to mark the anniversary of BTS’ debut.
A number of businesses, including Hyundai Department Store, Lotte Shopping’s Lotte Cinema, and S-Oil, have launched promotions or events.
The festivities are anticipated to peak on Saturday with a meet-and-greet with fans by BTS frontman RM, followed by fireworks near the Han River, which divides Seoul in half.
“Thank you for teaching us a little, or maybe even too much, about happiness and love,” member JungKook told fans in a tweet. “I want to keep walking with you all for the next 10 years as well.”
