BTS reunites for free concert in South Korea

BUSAN, South Korea — BTS reunited for a free concert Saturday, as the boy band lent its support for South Korea’s bid to host the World Expo in 2030.

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The global superstars played before more than 50,000 fans in Busan, South Korea, The Washington Post reported.

The “Yet to Come in Busan” concert by the K-pop group also drew thousands of fans who gathered in different areas of the city to watch the concert on large screens as it was live streamed, according to the newspaper.

The reunion came after the seven-member band’s surprise announcement in June of a break from group events to pursue solo projects, CNN reported.

The oldest member of the group, Jin, turns 30 next year. He is facing South Korea’s mandatory military service but the country’s defense minister said in August that the group might still be able to perform in concerts overseas while serving, according to CNN.

Under a 2019 law, globally recognized K-pop stars were allowed to delay military service until they turned 30, CNN reported. In South Korea, all able-bodied men aged between 18 and 28 are required to serve in the military.

“It feels a little strange to be in my hometown,” said Jimin, one of the two band members from Busan, according to NBC News. The streets of Busan were adorned with his face for his birthday this week.

Introducing the song “Ma City,” which pays tribute to Busan’s seaside, Jimin yelled to the audience, “Welcome to my city, let’s go!”

South Korea, Italy, Ukraine and Saudi Arabia have submitted bids to organize World Expo 2030, CNN reported. The host country is expected to be chosen next year.

BTS were made official ambassadors for the World Expo 2030 in July, the cable news organization reported.

“Some say BTS is too old now,” Suga, 29, the band’s rapper, told the audience Saturday night, according to the Post. “Let’s grow old together.”

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