A livestreamed comeback concert by K-pop megastars BTS drew 18.4 million global viewers on Netflix, according to the streaming service. Saturday's one-hour programme marked the first time all seven members - Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook - have performed together since October 2022, when they went on hiatus to complete their mandatory military service.
The free concert, staged at the historic Gwanghwamun Square, was attended by about 104,000 people, according to entertainment company Hybe - lower than the 260,000 anticipated by authorities. Hybe's shares had risen in recent months ahead of the comeback tour and the release of their new album Arirang but fell by 15.5% on Monday.
The event, which marked the start of the band's sold-out, 82-date world tour, was livestreamed on Netflix to more than 190 countries, including South Korea. Only around 22,000 people who secured free tickets were allowed into the main concert venue, while other spectators watched the performance on a dozen screens installed along nearby streets.
The concert saw the government implement strict crowd control measures, deploying about 7,000 police officers, including SWAT units equipped with anti-drone systems. The broadcast topped Netflix's rankings in 24 countries, the company said. This concert is part of Netflix's increased focus on live event broadcasting, a strategy that has seen remarkable success in recent months.
The anticipation surrounding BTS's reunion is projected to generate more than $1 billion (£740m) in revenue from concerts, merchandise, licensing, album sales, and streaming, according to Billboard. BTS remains a pivotal revenue source for Hybe, particularly following a slump in profits during their hiatus.
The free concert, staged at the historic Gwanghwamun Square, was attended by about 104,000 people, according to entertainment company Hybe - lower than the 260,000 anticipated by authorities. Hybe's shares had risen in recent months ahead of the comeback tour and the release of their new album Arirang but fell by 15.5% on Monday.
The event, which marked the start of the band's sold-out, 82-date world tour, was livestreamed on Netflix to more than 190 countries, including South Korea. Only around 22,000 people who secured free tickets were allowed into the main concert venue, while other spectators watched the performance on a dozen screens installed along nearby streets.
The concert saw the government implement strict crowd control measures, deploying about 7,000 police officers, including SWAT units equipped with anti-drone systems. The broadcast topped Netflix's rankings in 24 countries, the company said. This concert is part of Netflix's increased focus on live event broadcasting, a strategy that has seen remarkable success in recent months.
The anticipation surrounding BTS's reunion is projected to generate more than $1 billion (£740m) in revenue from concerts, merchandise, licensing, album sales, and streaming, according to Billboard. BTS remains a pivotal revenue source for Hybe, particularly following a slump in profits during their hiatus.
