As BTS marks 12 years since their debut, anticipation for the iconic K-pop group’s return to the stage is at an all-time high. With six out of seven members now discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service, fans are gearing up for a long-awaited reunion.
Thousands of devoted BTS ARMY members dressed in signature purple gathered on Friday to celebrate the group’s anniversary during the annual FESTA event, held in Goyang, just outside Seoul. The city’s mayor, Lee Dong-hwan, welcomed global fans and transformed the city into a festival hub with special photo zones and BTS-themed installations.
The final member, SUGA, who has been fulfilling alternative service due to health issues, is expected to complete his duties next week, paving the way for a full-group comeback.
HYBE’s headquarters in Seoul was wrapped with the powerful slogan “WE ARE BACK,” signaling the group’s impending return. Fans from around the world have been flocking to the site, and excitement continues to build with BTS member J-Hope scheduled to perform a special concert during the FESTA weekend. Many speculate other recently discharged members may make surprise appearances.
The excitement isn’t just among fans — HYBE, BTS’s agency, is also eyeing a major rebound. With BTS previously accounting for 95% of HYBE’s revenue before military enlistments, analysts now predict a 150% profit surge by 2026, fueled by global tours and music releases.
China, once a restricted market for Korean entertainment, is also showing signs of reopening under South Korea’s new administration. This could further boost BTS’s reach and concert attendance, with experts estimating the group may attract at least 3 million fans worldwide during their comeback tour.