An estimated 400,000 people gathered in South Korea’s capital Seoul on Saturday as fans from around the world celebrated the 10th anniversary of the debut of K-pop boy band juggernaut BTS.

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The band is on a temporary break as a group, with two of its seven members currently serving mandatory military service, but that hasn’t stopped celebratory events this week, organized by a group known as ‘the ARMY’. There was catering for the loyal fanbase.

At the BTS 10th Anniversary Festa in Seoul’s Han River Park on Saturday, thousands of fans wandered among various displays including a wall of BTS history, stage costumes and commemorative statues, many of which were in the band’s signature purple hue. With hit songs playing in the background, fans danced under the shady trees or bonded with their favorite band members.

“Through this event, I think we can gain experience (of) how we build our relationship with BTS and the ARMY,” said Audrey Lintner, a 28-year-old master’s degree student from Sri Lanka who attended the event. were participating.

BTS leader RM read fan messages, performed and received calls from fellow members Jungkook and V at the ceremony afterwards. “Time flies by so quickly. Everything has changed, and I’ve changed a lot. I’m not sure what feelings I’m going to have on 15th and 20th anniversaries, but not my love for you.” Will change,” RM told fans.

Organizers, local police and fire officials climaxed the festivities with a fireworks show over the Han River, estimating attendance at around 400,000 people by 9 p.m., according to Yonhap news agency.

“Thank you so much for giving us amazing music and performances for the past 10 years,” said Kim Hee-won, 30, who has been a fan since 2018. “I’ll be in the ARMY for 10, 20, 30 years, so I hope you extend that positive impact as artists, singers, for a long time.

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