K-Pop supergroup BTS made a highly anticipated return to Mexico after a nine-year hiatus, dazzling its Mexican ARMY during the first of three nights at the GNP Seguros Stadium in Mexico City on Thursday, May 7. The septet captivated 50,000 fans with heartfelt Spanish dialogue, traditional cowboy hats, and T-shirts proudly proclaiming “Ciudad de México,” reinforcing their strong connection with the local fandom. Members V, RM, Jungkook, and Jimin all addressed the crowd in Spanish, with V expressing his happiness and love for ARMY Mexico, stating, “You are the reason for my life; you are my everything.” Jimin used a mobile phone to read prepared phrases, thanking fans for their energy and expressing his deep affection.

Prior to the show, j-hope further endeared himself to Mexican fans by sharing a video on social media, wearing a cowboy hat and playing “Tu Sancho” by Fuerza Regida, prompting chants of “Hobi, brother, you’re already Mexican!” The ARIRANG World Tour party in Mexico City commenced with “Hooligan” and saw fans singing along enthusiastically to hits like “Aliens,” “Like Animals,” “SWIM,” and “Merry Go Round.” The massive stadium was illuminated by thousands of synchronized Light Sticks, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.

The monumental 360-degree stage, set up in the middle of the stadium, featured a segment that recreated the aesthetics of the South Korean flag, serving as a powerful tribute from BTS to their homeland. The setlist continued with electrifying performances of “FYA,” “Fire,” “Body to Body,” and “IDOL,” during which the group, also known as Bangtan, took a victory lap around the stadium, carrying flags and accompanied by dancers, much to the delight of their fans. Surprise songs “Boy In Luv” and “So What” added a nostalgic touch, evoking a range of emotions from applause to tears.

The celebratory atmosphere extended beyond the stadium walls, as thousands of fans without tickets gathered on nearby streets, singing and dancing to the music and fireworks visible and audible from afar, with their Light Sticks also synchronizing outside the venue. The energy remained high for over two hours. The show concluded with chart-toppers like “Dynamite,” “Please,” and “Into the Sun,” fulfilling the group's promise to include Mexico in their tour for the fourth time. RM expressed gratitude, remarking, “Mexican ARMY are always the most passionate. Thanks to you, I was very happy today.” BTS is scheduled to perform its remaining two concerts in Mexico City on Saturday and Sunday, May 9 and 10, at the GNP Seguros Stadium. The ARIRANG world tour, supporting their new album, will continue to South American countries including Colombia, Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil in October, with the tour set to conclude in March 2027 in Manila, Philippines.