BTS to Host Special Pop-up for New Studio Album 'ARIRANG': A Fusion of Modernity and Korean Aesthetics

 

A special pop-up space where fans can experience the new musical journey of BTS is set to open in the heart of Seoul.

BTS will host the "BTS POP-UP: ARIRANG" from March 20 to April 12 at the HYBE headquarters in Yongsan-gu and the Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch (The Heritage). Pre-reservations begin today, March 13, at 5:00 PM KST via the global fandom platform Weverse. To ensure a smooth experience, reservation slots will be opened sequentially across three weekly blocks.

The core focus of this pop-up is to interpret the traditional Korean aesthetics embedded in the new album "ARIRANG" through a contemporary lens. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a massive sculpture visualizing the album title and a depiction of the Big Dipper engraved on the floor. Surrounding these centerpieces are concept photos, LPs, and physical albums strategically placed throughout the venue.

At the Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch, interactive content linked to the new album's concept will be available. "ARIRANG MEARI" (Arirang Echo) is an experiential feature where visitors select words representing their identity and roll them across a table. The resulting sounds and movements of the colliding spheres offer a multisensory immersive experience. Digital programs such as "What is your love song?", which allows fans to create personalized graphic images using the new tracklist, will also be operational.

The pop-up will showcase both album exhibitions and official merchandise. A notable highlight is the collaboration with "MU:DS," the brand of the National Museum Foundation of Korea, which reinterprets traditional patterns and ornaments from actual artifacts into modern designs.

For fans attending the "BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG" at Gwanghwamun Square on March 21, an on-site pickup service will be available. Fans within a 10km radius of the venue can purchase items through the Weverse Shop on the day of the performance and collect them at a designated pickup point near the stage.

Set for release on March 20 at 1:00 PM KST, "ARIRANG" marks the first full-length album from BTS in approximately six years and one month. Produced by Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, the album features 14 tracks, including the title song "SWIM," capturing the current essence and musical evolution of BTS.