BTS made a triumphant return to the United States on March 23, 2023, with a special performance titled Spotify x BTS: SWIMSIDE, hosted by the streaming giant Spotify in New York City. This intimate event was designed exclusively for 1,000 of the group’s most dedicated listeners on the platform, representing a significant reunion for both the band and their ardent fans, known as ARMY.
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After a pause in group activities to complete their mandatory military service, the K-pop legends performed rooftop at South Street Seaport, taking advantage of the spectacular views of the Brooklyn Bridge, which resonated with the nautical themes of their latest music video. This marked BTS’s first performance in the U.S. since their ‘Permission to Dance’ concerts in Las Vegas in April 2022, making the event a highly anticipated occasion.
The night unfolded under chilly weather, yet the passionate fans were undeterred. They were treated to a unique opportunity to experience BTS up close, far removed from the stadium crowds expected at their upcoming global tour. As the band took the stage, RM, the leader of the group, addressed the audience during a Q&A session moderated by actress Suki Waterhouse. “It’s really an honour for us to do our first stage in America here,” RM expressed, gratitude evident in his voice. He added, “It’s been four years but now we’re here. We seven, and with you all, ARMY. We, with you, can take over the world.”
The performance featured several tracks from BTS’s new album, ARIRANG, released just days prior on March 20. This marks BTS’s first album since their military hiatus, and it has made a considerable impact, selling nearly four million copies within its first day. The group’s new material includes tracks like “2.0” and “NORML,” both showcasing the exciting evolution of their sound and style as they enter a new chapter in their careers.
During the event, the members engaged in lighthearted banter and games, including one entitled “Normal vs Alien,” referencing two songs from their latest work. Following this playful interaction, the group showcased a mini-concert including high-energy performances that had the crowd jumping and singing along. The night highlighted the anthemic “NORML,” which was particularly engaging, transforming the audience into a sea of waving arms, all while their light sticks illuminated the rooftop.
This performance not only marked the return of BTS to America but also acted as a celebration of their international success and connection with fans. The seven members—RM, Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—exhibited their strong stage presence, even in a more intimate setup. Their performance of “SWIM,” their current single, rounded off the evening on a poignant note, reinforcing the deep emotional ties they maintain with their audience.
BTS’s comeback is monumental considering their hiatus, which stemmed from fulfilling South Korea’s military obligations, with all members discharged by June 2025. In the interim, they focused on solo projects and reuniting to create ARIRANG, dedicated to furthering their artistic expression. Notably, several renowned collaborators joined BTS on this journey, including Diplo and Kevin Parker of Tame Impala.
Ahead of the SWIMSIDE event, BTS held a global concert dubbed “BTS The Comeback Live: ARIRANG,” which allowed millions to tune in from around the world. This concert, streamed on Netflix, took place in South Korea’s Gwanghwamun Square, attracting more than 100,000 attendees. It served as a prelude to their latest album, featuring a line-up of both classic and newly released songs, further amplifying their return to the music scene.
The much-anticipated ARIRANG World Tour is due to kick off on April 9 in Goyang, South Korea, before heading to the U.S. for subsequent performances starting April 25. The tour is set to travel across Europe, Asia, and Australia, with dates extending into 2027, solidifying BTS’s place as global pop icons as they once again share their music and message with the world.
As BTS prepares to embark on this new chapter, their ability to resonate with fans, combined with their return to the UK and global live music stages, exemplifies their enduring influence and artistry in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music.