Global interest in the group BTS remains intense.
On the 26th, Big Hit Music announced legal actions taken in the first quarter of 2026 regarding the infringement of BTS’s rights.
The agency stated they have observed organized patterns and movements involving the simultaneous posting of malicious content about the artists across various online communities and social media platforms, generating negative comments. Civil and criminal legal procedures are currently underway.
They emphasized that even deleted postings or comments can still be subject to penalties and affirmed their commitment to pursuing the most proactive legal measures possible, without settlement or leniency.
They also announced plans to crack down on invasions of privacy and stalking behaviors at the artists’ residences, as well as infringements of BTS’s intellectual property rights (IP).
This action is seen as a firm stance against rights violations, especially amid heightened attention surrounding BTS’s recent comeback.
On the 20th, BTS released their fifth studio album “ARIRANG.”
Before the comeback, leader RM’s “disband” remark and Jungkook’s controversial live broadcast sparked discussions. After the comeback, various interpretations emerged within the fandom regarding Jin’s absence from the “ARIRANG” album credits, leading to ongoing speculation.
The next day, on the 21st, they held “BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG” in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square, where they showcased the title track “SWIM” for the first time.
The performance drew a large crowd, and Netflix streamed it live, underscoring the intense public interest. However, discrepancies in audience numbers soon emerged. Initial estimates projected about 260,000 attendees, but police estimated approximately 40,000, while organizer HYBE estimated around 100,000.
This significant discrepancy sparked controversy regarding the attendance figures.
On the day of the performance, due to safety concerns, authorities implemented strict controls, including non-stop subway passes and enhanced security screenings, leading to complaints from the public.
Amid these ongoing debates, the concert marked the first solo performance by a specific artist at Gwanghwamun Square, further fueling a wide spectrum of public interest in BTS.
Image source: Korea Online Press Photographers Association Joint Coverage Team, Big Hit Music
