Devendra Kumar
As South Korea celebrates the 10th anniversary of K-pop sensation BTS, the capital city will be bathed in a stunning purple glow. Landmarks such as City Hall, the Lotte World Tower, and the futuristic DDP will be illuminated in the iconic color associated with the seven-member group. This spectacle is set to provide the backdrop for various social media-driven events marking the anniversary of BTS’s 2013 debut. The lights will shine brightly from Monday onwards, creating a breathtaking sight that will undoubtedly charm the attention of fans and non-fans alike.
The purple glow will also be a fitting tribute to BTS’s remarkable journey, which has seen them become a source of national pride. The group’s popularity exploded across the globe with their 2020 megahit “Dynamite,” making them the first K-pop act to top Billboard’s Hot 100. Since then, BTS has performed in sold-out arenas around the world and has been invited to speak at the United Nations, garnering a legion of global followers who call themselves the “Army.”
However, BTS’s activities as a full group are currently on hold as the artists begin to serve in the military. Two members, Jin and J-Hope, have already started their 18-month compulsory service, and the others will follow in the coming months. This means that the group will likely reconvene in about 2025. In South Korea, all able-bodied men are required to serve in uniform for 18-21 months under a system designed to deter aggression from North Korea.
Despite this temporary hiatus, BTS’s impact on the world of music and beyond will be celebrated in Seoul. The city has designated over a dozen sites associated with the group, including places where they held major performances or shot music videos. A live talk with fans, hosted by RM, will be broadcast online on Saturday, ahead of a fireworks display at a park near the Han River. Postal authorities have also issued stamps marking the group’s anniversary, which will be available at post offices from Tuesday.
The celebrations, which will continue for about two weeks, are hoped to boost tourism in Seoul. As the city lights up with purple hues, fans and non-fans alike will be treated to a spectacular sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression. With BTS’s global popularity showing no signs of slowing down, this milestone anniversary is the perfect opportunity for the world to come together and celebrate the group’s incredible journey.