BIGHIT Music has responded to spreading rumors about a free BTS comeback concert at Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square, saying discussions are ongoing and nothing has been finalized yet.
In a brief statement to Korean media on January 19, the agency said it is "currently discussing" plans for the group's first comeback performance and will issue an official notice once the venue and schedule are confirmed. This follows multiple local reports claiming that BTS will hold a large-scale free show at the central Seoul landmark in late March as their first full-group stage after completing military service.
Reports from Korean outlets say HYBE, BTS's parent company, has applied to the Korea Heritage Service and related authorities for permission to use several historic sites, including Gwanghwamun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Gwanghwamun Woldae area, and Sungnyemun Gate, for a special performance that combines traditional culture and K-pop.
Officials are expected to review the request at a Cultural Heritage Committee meeting scheduled for January 20 at 2 p.m. KST, according to Koreaboo.
Local media have described the proposed event as a free outdoor concert tied to BTS's comeback, with estimates of around 15,000 to 20,000 attendees selected through advance registration rather than open entry.
However, BIGHIT Music has not confirmed whether the show will be free, what format it will take, or if Gwanghwamun Square will ultimately be used, Times Now News reported.
The speculation comes as BTS prepares their fifth full-length album, ARIRANG, set for release on March 20, 2026. The album reportedly features 14 tracks and is being promoted as a project that reflects the members' experiences during their break and their return to group activities.
Following the album, BTS will launch their largest world tour to date, beginning April 9 at Goyang Sports Complex in South Korea. The tour is scheduled to span 79 shows across 34 cities on five continents, with a 360-degree stage setup planned for many venues.
BTS is also expected to perform at multiple major stadiums in the United States for the first time, including stops in cities such as Foxborough, Arlington, and Baltimore, alongside previously announced dates in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, as per CNN.
Until authorities rule on venue permits and BIGHIT Music releases a formal announcement, the rumored free Gwanghwamun concert remains unconfirmed.
