A livestreamed comeback concert by K-pop supergroup BTS attracted 18.4 million viewers worldwide on Netflix, the streaming platform said.
The one-hour concert, held on Saturday at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, marked the first time all seven members — Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook — performed together since October 2022, when the group paused activities to complete mandatory military service.
About 104,000 fans attended the event in person, according to the band’s management company Hybe, although authorities had earlier expected around 260,000 spectators.
Only around 22,000 ticket holders were allowed into the main venue, while others watched the performance on large screens set up in nearby streets.
The concert also launched BTS’s sold-out 82-date world tour and was streamed by Netflix in more than 190 countries.
The broadcast later ranked among the platform’s most-watched live events and topped Netflix charts in 24 countries.
Authorities deployed about 7,000 police officers, including SWAT units with anti-drone systems, to manage crowds during the event.
BTS’s reunion is expected to generate more than $1 billion through concerts, merchandise, album sales, licensing and streaming revenue, according to Billboard.
The group remains the primary source of income for Hybe, whose profits declined during the band’s hiatus.
