An estimated 400,000 people gathered in South Korea's capital Seoul on Saturday as fans from around the globe commemorated the 10th anniversary of K-pop boy band BTS.
The band are on temporary break as a group with two of its seven members currently doing mandatory military service, but that did not stop a host of celebratory events this week catering to a loyal fan base known as the "Army".
At the "BTS 10th Anniversary Festa" at the Han River Park in Seoul on Saturday, tens of thousands of fans wandered around the various exhibits including a BTS history wall, stage costumes and commemorative sculptures, many in the band's signature purple colour. The festivities are set to continue for about two weeks.
With hit songs playing in the background, fans danced under shady trees or bonded over their favourite band members.
"Through this event I think we can get experience [of] how we build up our connection with BTS and Army," said Audrey Lintner, 28, a master's degree student from Sri Lanka who was at the event.
BTS leader RM later read out fan messages, performed and received calls from fellow members Jungkook and V at the celebration.
"Time goes by so fast. Everything has changed, and I've changed a lot. I'm not sure what I'm going to be doing with what feelings on the 15th and 20th anniversaries, but my love for you won't change," RM told fans.
The festivities ended with a fireworks show on the Han River, with organisers, local police and fire authorities estimating that about 400,000 people were in attendance by 9pm, according to Yonhap news agency.
"Thank you so much for giving us great music and performances for the past 10 years," said Kim Hye-won, 30, who has been a fan since 2018.
"I'll continue to be an Army for 10, 20, 30 years, so I hope you as artists, singers, extend a lot of positive influence for a long, long time."
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Fans of K-pop boy band BTS share a moment at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza as purple lights mark the 10th anniversary of the group's debut as a part of 'BTS Festa' on June 12, 2023 in Seoul, South Korea. Getty Images -
BTS is currently on hiatus as band members complete their compulsory military service and plan to reunite in 2025. Getty Images -
A general view of Sebitseom as purple lights mark the 10th anniversary of BTS. Getty Images -
The landmark Namsan Seoul Tower is illuminated in purple to celebrate the 10th anniversary of K-pop megastars BTS. AFP -
Fans of K-pop megastars BTS flocked to hotspots around Seoul on June 12 to mark the supergroup's 10-year anniversary. AFP -
Purple is BTS's signature colour. AFP -
Seoul City Hall illuminated in purple. AFP -
South Korea is set to unveil a special commemorative stamp series to celebrate the 10th anniversary of BTS. AFP -
BTS fans in Seoul celebrate 10 years since the band's debut. AFP -
An artist spray paints a mural of K-pop megastars BTS in Seoul. AFP -
A woman looks at an in-progress mural of K-pop megastars BTS in Seoul. AFP -
Billboard in Seoul advertising the group's Festa celebrations. EPA -
Posters around Seoul advertise the 10-year anniversary of BTS. AFP
