BTS Returns to NYC After 4 Years as Full Group

BTS took the stage in New York as a full group for the first time in four years. The group attended a special event, 'Spotify X BTS: Swimside,' held on the rooftop of Pier 17 in Manhattan, New York, on the 23rd (local time), marking their first full-group performance since 2022.

One thousand fans, invited by Spotify, attended the event. BTS unveiled performances of new songs from their fifth full album, 'Arirang,' including the title track 'Swim,' as well as 'Normal' and 'FYA.' Member Jimin expressed his gratitude to the fans, emphasizing the significance of their return as a seven-member group, stating, "The most important thing is that we are all together again after a long time."

BTS released their fifth full album, 'Arirang,' on the 20th, marking their comeback as a full group after three years and nine months. The day after their comeback, on the 21st, they held a free comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. Additionally, they are scheduled to appear on the popular American NBC program 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' on the 25th and 26th.

At this event, BTS members showcased a unique styling by pairing Western attire with traditional Korean accessories. V, Jungkook, Suga, and J-Hope wore brooches, norigae, and sulture (belt ornaments) created by the Hanbok brand LEESLE. These accessories, imbued with traditional meanings such as 'connection and destiny' and 'fortune,' were reinterpreted with a modern sensibility.

Designer Hwang Yi-seul of LEESLE stated, "It is an honor to be able to collaborate in the same direction with artists who are promoting Korea to the world," explaining that this styling was a "production that reveals that their roots are in Korea." LEESLE has prior experience creating Hanbok for BTS and is also known as a Hanbok brand that debuted at Milan Fashion Week.