HYBE expressed gratitude and also apologized regarding BTS’s comeback performance at Gwanghwamun.
On the 22nd, HYBE released an official statement saying, “We sincerely thank everyone for the warm support and consideration you showed during BTS’s performance at Gwanghwamun yesterday.”
BTS released a full group album on the 20th after about three years and nine months. Having completed their military service hiatus, BTS members held the BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG at Gwanghwamun Square on the 21st, where they debuted the title track stage for “SWIM.”
HYBE stated, “First of all, we deeply thank the authorities for providing Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun—symbols of the Republic of Korea—as the venue for the performance. We know well that Gyeongbokgung and Gwanghwamun are spaces where Korea’s history, identity, and contemporary culture live and breathe together. We are very honored to have been able to present a performance to the world from this location.”
They continued, “We are deeply grateful to the police, firefighters, as well as government and local officials who worked to ensure the event’s safe conclusion. We also want to apologize and extend our thanks to the citizens of the Gwanghwamun area, nearby shopkeepers, office workers, and visitors.”
HYBE added, “Because this was a performance attracting global attention, safety measures such as traffic and building controls and security checks for dangerous items were unavoidable. We sincerely apologize to everyone who experienced inconvenience, including those passing through Gwanghwamun Square and those whose precious schedules and daily lives were affected. Thanks to your broad understanding and consideration, we were able to create a meaningful event.”
They explained, “K-pop’s growth into a cultural phenomenon resonating worldwide today is thanks not only to artists and fans but also to the cultural foundations built by Korean society and the mature support of its citizens. We fully understand that this performance was possible on that foundation. The orderly viewing, mature civic consciousness, and mutual consideration made this event shine even brighter. We once again express our gratitude to everyone.”
HYBE also pledged, “We will cherish the support and consideration shown for this performance and strive even harder to convey the emotion and value of K-pop and K-culture to the world. In particular, we are grateful that we could showcase our proud cultural heritage globally through the performance, and we will promptly finalize and implement long-term support systems for the protection and promotion of national heritage and cultural assets, in close consultation with relevant agencies.”
Finally, HYBE concluded, “We offer our condolences to all those affected by the Daejeon fire incident. Our deepest sympathies go to the families of the deceased, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”