BTS RM issues an official apology at the Gwanghwamun performance attended by 100,000, 'Sorry to the citizens and merchants who endured the discomfort; we will not forget the consideration' [Full Text]

[Sports Chosun reporter Kim So-hee] After successfully completing the comeback performance, BTS leader RM added lingering emotion with a heartfelt message of thanks.

On the 21st, RM posted a long message on the fan communication platform Weverse, saying, "Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Gwanghwamun performance," reflecting on the emotion of the show.

RM reflected on the significance of the comeback stage completed after four years and expressed gratitude to those who showed consideration and support so that they could meet fans again at Gwanghwamun.

He also thanked the police, fire services, and other related agencies and local governments who worked to ensure the performance was safe amid the large crowd.

To the citizens and the merchants and workers around Gwanghwamun who endured inconveniences such as traffic restrictions and noise, he said, "I am sorry and grateful," and vowed not to forget that consideration.

To the fans 'ARMY', he expressed gratitude for their long-standing trust and patience and said he was moved by how they enjoyed the performance in an orderly manner. He also added love and thanks to fans around the world, not just those on site.

RM said this stage was not just for the members, but a moment completed by the efforts of those responsible for safety, the understanding of citizens, and the love of ARMY, and vowed to repay them with even better music in the future.

Meanwhile, BTS held the 'BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG' performance on the 21st at Gwanghwamun Plaza, Jongno-gu, Seoul, marking their return as a full group after about 3 years and 9 months. Organizer HYBE estimated about 104,000 people gathered in the Gwanghwamun and City Hall Plaza area.

Considering the possibility of up to 260,000 people gathering, the performance was conducted under a large-scale safety management system, with approximately 4,800 police officers and about 4,000 order maintenance personnel deployed, and it concluded without any major incidents after about an hour.

Full Text of RM's Weverse Post

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Gwanghwamun performance.

Hello, this is Bangtan Sonyeondan.

After a long wait of four years, the seven of us gathered again and faced you in the meaningful space of Gwanghwamun. We want to thank everyone who sent boundless consideration and support so that our comeback stage could be completed safely.

First, we bow in gratitude to the police, fire services, government, and local government officials who embraced Gwanghwamun Plaza as our comeback stage and worked to ensure a safe performance without major incidents despite the large crowds.

We are sincerely sorry and also grateful to the citizens and the merchants and workers around Gwanghwamun who endured various inconveniences such as traffic control and noise. We will never take for granted the warm consideration with which you embraced our performance and will keep it deeply in our hearts for a long time.

And above all, our everything and pride, beloved ARMY!

Thank you so much for believing in us and waiting faithfully for a long time. The moment I heard your cheers filling the plaza, I was overwhelmed with the feeling of 'Ah, we've finally returned.' We were even more moved by how you enjoyed the performance maturely and orderly, considering the large number of people. As always, you are our greatest pride. We send sincere love and thanks to ARMYs around the world who shared the same feelings beyond the screens.

This Gwanghwamun stage was not just for the seven of us, Bangtan Sonyeondan. It was a stage completed by the efforts of those who were responsible for safety, the warm understanding of citizens, and ARMY's unwavering love.

We will not forget this great love and support you have sent and will create greater resonance and better music on the journey ahead for Bangtan Sonyeondan. I hope today's passionate memories remain a pleasant gift in your daily lives for a long time.

We were truly, exceedingly happy.

Thank you.

March 21, 2026