A large-scale popup store will be set up in downtown Seoul to celebrate the release of the new regular album 'Arirang' by the group BTS.
According to their agency Big Hit Music, 'BTS Popup: Arirang' will take place from March 20 to April 12 at HYBE Headquarters in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, and at the Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch. Pre-reservations will start at 5 PM on the 13th through the global fandom platform Weverse. For the convenience of visitors, the entire operation period will be divided into three weeks for sequential reservations.
The core of this event is the spatial arrangement that reinterprets the unique aesthetics of Korea contained in the new album with a modern sensibility. At the entrance of the venue, a large sculpture visualizing 'Arirang' and floor decorations featuring the Big Dipper pattern will capture the attention of visitors. Inside, various exhibits that encapsulate the identity of the new album, including concept photos, limited edition LPs, and physical albums, will be displayed.
The popup space at the Shinsegae Department Store Main Branch aims to differentiate itself with visitor participation content. Unique experiential programs that combine analog and digital technology will be provided, such as 'Arirang Echo', where participants roll a ball with a word symbolizing their identity, and 'What Is Your Love Song?', which creates customized graphics based on the new album's tracklist.
The official merchandise lineup that fans are eagerly anticipating has also been revealed. In particular, limited edition goods incorporating traditional patterns of actual artifacts will be exclusively sold in collaboration with the National Museum of Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation's product brand 'MU:DS'. Additionally, a service for on-site pickup for Weverse Shop purchasers will be provided at the comeback live event held at Gwanghwamun Square on the 21st, enhancing convenience.
Meanwhile, BTS's new regular album 'Arirang', which they are ambitiously presenting after 6 years and 1 month, will be released simultaneously worldwide at 1 PM on the 20th. Bang Si-hyuk, the chairman of HYBE, is in charge of overall production, and through 14 tracks including the title song 'SWIM', BTS is expected to prove their deepened musical capabilities and authenticity.
