BTS Return to Busan After Three Years for Two Epic Homecoming Concerts

BTS made a heartfelt return to Busan with two sold-out concerts, marking their first hometown performances in over three years.

A Long-Awaited Homecoming in Busan

If you’ve ever waited for a long-awaited reunion with your favorite band, you’ll know the electric buzz that fills the air. That’s exactly what unfolded last weekend as BTS returned to their hometown of Busan for two unforgettable nights at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium. These concerts, held on June 12 and 13, 2026, weren’t just another stop on their world tour — they were a poignant homecoming after a three-year hiatus from performing in Busan.

The group’s last performance in the city was their emotional 2022 concert, Yet to Come in BUSAN. Since then, BTS faced the reality of South Korea’s mandatory military service, which put the band on a temporary hiatus. So these two nights carried an added layer of significance — it was a triumphant return to the stage that symbolized both resilience and reunion.

BTS rocking the Busan Asiad Main Stadium in their first hometown shows in over three years.

Celebrating Their Debut Anniversary in Style

June 13 wasn’t just any concert night — it was BTS’s official debut anniversary. The group and their fans celebrated the milestone with a massive turnout, welcoming over 110,000 attendees across both nights. The atmosphere was electric, charged by years of anticipation and the deep connection BTS shares with their hometown fans.

The two-night event was part of their BTS World Tour ‘Arirang’ In Busan, which kicked off in April 2026. By the time they arrived in Busan, BTS had already wowed audiences in seven cities with more than 20 shows under their belt.

A Setlist That Paid Homage to Busan and BTS’s Journey

True to their signature style, BTS tailored their setlist to reflect their roots and personal journey. On the first night, songs inspired by Busan itself took center stage — “Paldogangsan,” which is named after a famous mountain in the region, and the energetic city anthem “Ma City.” It was a warm nod to their hometown, reminding everyone why Busan is so close to their hearts.

On the second night, the vibe shifted with some fan favorites like “Ddaeng,” “Dimple,” and “Magic Shop.” Each track, layered with emotion and energy, showcased the group’s versatility as performers. Notably, the anniversary show featured a surprise: the first-ever live performance of “One More Night,” a fresh gem from their latest chart-topping album, ARIRANG. Fans were also touched by handwritten cards from the members, expressing heartfelt thanks for unwavering support.

“Lucky were those who got to see #Namjoon rapping his verse in Ddaeng in the year 2026.” – Jasparina7

BTS’s Interactive Celebration Across Busan

The concerts weren’t the only way BTS turned the spotlight on Busan. From June 5 through the end of the month, the city transformed into a vibrant playground with BTS THE CITY ARIRANG – BUSAN, an immersive urban play park that invited fans to dive deep into the BTS world around the scenic coastal city.

This urban festival added another layer to the celebration, blending music, art, and culture, and giving fans a chance to experience Busan through the lens of BTS’s artistry.

From Goyang to Busan: A Tour Filled with Milestones

The Busan concerts were part of BTS’s massive 2026-2027 world tour — their first in three years — spanning 34 regions and 79 shows, making it their most ambitious tour yet.

The tour kicked off with a bang at Goyang Stadium in South Korea, where BTS debuted several tracks from ARIRANG for the first time, including “Body to Body,” “Hooligan,” “2.0,” and “Like Animals.” Despite RM spraining his ankle during rehearsals and performing seated for much of the set, the group’s energy was undiminished.

Before the official tour launch, BTS also staged a free comeback concert in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square. That event drew a staggering crowd of roughly 104,000 fans and was livestreamed in over 190 countries on Netflix, setting a record for the largest public concert ever held in South Korea.

BTS delivering a high-energy performance in Busan on Day 2 of their concert series.

Tour Highlights and UK Dates

For fans in the UK, the excitement continues with two highly anticipated shows scheduled for July 6 and 7, 2026, in London. Beyond Europe, more dates across North America, Asia, and Australia are slated for later in 2026 and early 2027.

The tour has been a whirlwind of excitement and emotion, reflecting BTS’s return not only to the global stage but also to their personal roots.

Critical Acclaim for ‘ARIRANG’

BTS’s latest album, ARIRANG, has captured both fan and critic hearts alike, receiving a solid four-star review for its introspective themes. The album explores dualities — the contrast between BTS as global heroes and as relatable individuals, the dazzling spotlight versus private moments, and the bittersweet feelings of wanting to hold onto joy while also yearning for peace.

The album also surprised fans with a hidden track produced by Suga that adds even more depth to the ARIRANG narrative. Some fans and critics alike have taken to curating “dream setlists” inspired by this new body of work, imagining the perfect BTS concert experience.

Final Thoughts: BTS Shining Bright

“It’s a sentiment that makes the fireworks-heavy final song, ‘Into The Sun’, feel beautifully optimistic – this might be the end of the show, but BTS’ moment in the sun is far from over.”

— Rhian Daly

It’s clear that BTS’s journey is far from over. Despite the challenges and breaks, their dedication to music and fans remains steadfast. The return to Busan was more than just concerts — it was a celebration of endurance, of connection, and of a band that continues to redefine pop culture on its own terms.

FAQ

• What made the Busan concerts special for BTS?
  The concerts were BTS’s first performances in their hometown after more than three years, marking a heartfelt return following their military service hiatus.
• Which new song did BTS premiere live at the Busan show?
  BTS performed “One More Night” live for the first time during the anniversary show on June 13.
• How many people attended the Busan concerts?
  Over the two nights, more than 110,000 fans came out to celebrate with BTS.
• What is BTS THE CITY ARIRANG – BUSAN?
  It’s an immersive urban play park that transformed Busan into a vibrant celebration of BTS’s music and culture lasting throughout June.
• Are there UK tour dates for BTS in 2026?
  Yes, BTS has two scheduled shows in London on July 6 and 7, 2026.

If you’re a BTS fan looking to bring a piece of this historic tour home, check out our collection of iconic album cover posters and memorabilia at Architeg Prints. Celebrate the music and memories with timeless art!