BTS’s long-awaited comeback era has officially begun—though not without a setback. On March 20, global K-pop icons BTS released their highly anticipated album Arirang, but celebrations are tempered by news that leader RM sustained a significant ankle injury just days before their landmark return to the stage.
On Thursday (Mar 19), the group’s agency BigHit Music announced that RM was injured during a rehearsal for the upcoming BTS The Comeback Live | Arirang concert scheduled for Saturday (Mar 21). The medical report confirmed “a sprain of the accessory navicular, a partial ligament tear, and a talus contusion,” with RM advised to wear a cast and minimize movement for at least two weeks.
“Hello. This is BIGHIT MUSIC.
We would like to provide an update on BTS member RM’s participation in ‘BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG,’ scheduled for March 21. During a performance rehearsal on March 19, RM suffered an ankle injury and was taken to a hospital to undergo a detailed examination and treatment. A medical diagnosis confirmed a sprain of the accessory navicular, a partial ligament tear, and a talus contusion (which includes ligament damage and inflammation).
As advised by medical professionals, he must wear a cast and strictly limit movement for a minimum of two weeks to concentrate solely on his recovery.
While RM expressed a firm commitment to deliver a high-quality performance at this symbolic comeback stage at Gwanghwamun, the company, in close consultation with the artist, has made the decision to prioritize the medical opinion to preemptively prevent any further strain on his injury. Accordingly, RM’s on-stage performance, including choreography, will be partially limited.
We ask for your kind understanding regarding this matter. We sincerely apologize for any disappointment this may cause, given the high anticipation surrounding this performance.
Although RM’s on-stage performance will inevitably be limited, he will do his best to participate on stage and engage with ARMY and the audience. We know you have waited a long time for this performance, and we will put our utmost effort into delivering a heartfelt show. We prioritize our artists’ health and safety above all else, and are committed to providing RM with all the necessary support for his complete recovery and return to full health. The BTS members are preparing diligently for this performance. We ask for your continued encouragement and support. Thank you.”
The update has drawn both concern and support from fans worldwide ahead of what is arguably the most eagerly awaited live event of 2026. The upcoming concert marks the first full-group performance since 2022, when BTS temporarily went on hiatus for mandatory military service.
Set in the heart of Seoul at Gwanghwamun Square, the one-hour show will feature songs from Arirang, a 14-track exploration of identity and heritage inspired by the iconic Korean folk song. Performing against the scenic backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace, BTS are expected to blend traditional motifs with their signature stadium-scale production—despite RM’s restricted movement.
“We gave deep thought to our identity – and how best to express ourselves authentically – across the entirety of our music and performances,” said Jimin ahead of the album’s release.
“As an extension of that process, we also revisited the significance of our background as a group comprised entirely Korean members,” he added.
Opening with Body To Body and closing with Into The Sun, Arirang symbolizes both reflection and revival—an artistic return to roots following a four-year gap in group activities.
The concert itself is projected to attract over 260,000 attendees, with only 22,000 entering the main stage area and thousands more gathering in surrounding spaces to watch live on huge outdoor screens. Netflix will stream the performance globally as part of its exclusive partnership with the group, including a behind-the-scenes documentary chronicling BTS’s reunion journey.
Read more: BTS Drops Netflix Trailer For ‘The Comeback Live Arirang’ Livestream
Meanwhile, Seoul has intensified crowd control measures, deploying around 7,000 police officers and imposing temporary subway closures in anticipation of massive attendance.
Fans, however, remain unwavering in their excitement.
“BTS is the reason I’m here,” says Ami Ostrovskaia, a student who moved from Russia to Seoul. “It’s why I started learning about Korean history, culture, food, sports, and the language.”
Another fan, Park Joo-young, shared her confidence despite the setback.
“They’ve always exceeded my expectations. They might feel the pressure, but I believe they’ll do their best,” she says.
For many, the moment transcends injury or logistics.
“I was so happy and felt like all my problems were gone,” Ami adds, recalling how she cried all night after failing to get a ticket before lucking out through a friend. “This means that I’ll be joining their [full-group] performance after so many years. It’s really meaningful for me.”
As BTS prepare to embark on an 82-date global tour, Arirang launches a new chapter—defined by resilience, introspection, and renewed unity.
Even with RM’s movements limited, the group’s symbolic reunion in Seoul is poised to echo far beyond the city’s skyline.
