When Sandra Martinez found herself unable to travel to South Korea for BTS’s live performance in Goyang, she discovered an alternative way to experience the show. This past Saturday, Martinez joined fellow fans at an AMC cinema in Los Angeles to watch the Korean pop sensation’s ‘ARIRANG’ tour broadcast on theater screens.
“We couldn’t go to the concert, so it’s fun to gather with friends and fellow BTS ARMY,” Martinez, who works for herself, explained while at the AMC location in The Grove shopping center.
The term ARMY refers to the devoted worldwide following of the musical act.
The seven-member ensemble includes RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, all represented by Big Hit Music, which operates as an independent entity within Hybe Corporation.
Movie theaters around the world are showing two complete performances from the group’s international tour schedule—one recorded live in Goyang on Saturday and a second planned for Tokyo on April 18—giving supporters everywhere access to the shows.
According to Martinez, BTS distinguishes itself from other Korean pop acts through its universal attraction. “It’s not just for younger people. It’s for any age, without limits on race or gender,” she explained. “Music comes from the heart.”
Through Instagram, Martinez connected with another enthusiast, Millie B, who works as a pharmacy technician and creates BTS-related content. Their friendship developed through their mutual admiration for the band. “I didn’t meet my friends until I became ARMY,” Martinez noted.
Clutching her BTS light stick, Millie B expressed excitement about the group’s comeback following more than five years away from performing together. “They went to the military and now they’re finally back with a big tour,” she shared. “It’s a big deal.”
The musical group took a break in 2022 while all seven performers fulfilled South Korea’s required military duties, completing their service by mid-2025 before reuniting to create their fifth studio release ‘ARIRANG.’
The world tour kicked off Thursday in Goyang. Their March album release claimed the top spot on the Billboard 200 for two consecutive weeks, marking a historic achievement for Korean pop music, while their main track ‘Swim’ entered the Hot 100 at number one.
Industry experts anticipate the tour will produce record-breaking earnings, featuring 34 performances worldwide—including a Los Angeles date in September—representing the most extensive touring schedule ever undertaken by a Korean pop artist.
Fan Nicole Lee, who secured tickets for the Los Angeles performance, expressed her eagerness to see an early preview. “I wanted to see their performance a little bit early,” she said.
“I’m just happy that they’re finally back together again,” Lee continued.
She believes the group’s worldwide popularity stems from how the members connect with and show genuine concern for their supporters.
“I think people really resonate with that,” she concluded.
