“We’re ARMY Today”: TXT, Bang Chan, and Jang Wonyoung Spotted in the Crowd at BTS’s Historic Kickoff

The “Kings” are back, and even the biggest stars in the industry are lining up for a front-row seat. On April 9, BTS officially ignited their “ARIRANG” World Tour at the Goyang Comprehensive Stadium, marking their first full-group stadium performance in over six years.

While the night was a celebration for fans, the VIP section looked more like a year-end awards ceremony, filled with K-pop juniors, A-list actors, and sports legends who traded their celebrity status for “ARMY” lightsticks.

The VIP “ARMY” Roster

Social media was ablaze as fans captured footage of various celebrities lost in the music. The guest list included:

• TXT (Tomorrow X Together): The entire group attended to support their BigHit seniors. They were seen standing up during the high-energy tracks, mirroring the choreography from their seats.
• Stray Kids’ Bang Chan: Known for his deep respect for BTS, Bang Chan was caught on video “hardcore” cheering, leading fans to joke that he might be the most dedicated ARMY in the building.
• IVE’s Jang Wonyoung: The “IT Girl” of K-pop was spotted holding the official “ARIRANG” lightstick, proving her long-standing fan status once again.
• And more: Members of ATEEZ (Jongho), TWS, Choi Yena, Son Dong-pyo, as well as actors Lee Sung-kyung, Kim Min-jae, and even MMA legend Choo Sung-hoon.

A Setlist for the Ages

The 120-minute spectacle was a masterclass in discography. BTS balanced their new ARIRANG hits with legendary anthems.

• The Mix: From Billboard Hot 100 toppers to “Hidden Tracks” previously only available on vinyl.
• The Impact: The Goyang kickoff is just the start of a 3-day residency (120,000 total attendees), all of which sold out instantly.

Editor’s Insight: The “Red Carpet” Effect

This concert has officially become the “Unofficial Red Carpet” of the 2026 K-pop industry. When groups like TXT and Stray Kids show up in full force, it reinforces BTS’s Topical Authority as the “Sunbae of Sunbaes” (Senior of Seniors).

From a strategic perspective, this attendance isn’t just about friendship; it’s a cultural moment that bridges generations. In 2026, a BTS concert is more than a show—it’s a declaration that the “BTS Era” is a permanent fixture in global music history. As they move toward Tokyo Dome next, the industry expects this “celebrity ARMY” trend to follow them to every major city.

With 85 shows scheduled across 34 cities, do you think we’ll see global Western stars joining the crowd once the tour hits the U.S. and Europe?