BTS's reunion concert streamed on Netflix pulls in massive global audience amid their military service hiatus.
K-pop group BTS held a livestreamed comeback concert on Netflix that drew 18.4 million global viewers, according to the streaming service. The one-hour event featured all seven members performing together for the first time since October 2022, when they began their mandatory military service.
Event Details and Attendance
The concert took place at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul and was attended by about 104,000 people, as reported by entertainment company Hybe. Only 22,000 ticket holders were allowed into the main venue, with others watching via screens on nearby streets. The free event was broadcast to over 190 countries, highlighting BTS's international appeal.
Hybe's shares fell by 15.5% on Monday following the concert, after rising in recent months ahead of the band's reunion and the release of their new album. The concert launched BTS's sold-out, 82-date world tour, expected to generate significant revenue from various sources.
Netflix reported that the broadcast topped its rankings in 24 countries, underscoring the platform's growing focus on live events. This included strict crowd control measures, with about 7,000 police officers deployed, including SWAT units with anti-drone systems, to manage the large gathering.
Netflix has expanded into live broadcasting, as seen with their 2024 event featuring a boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, which drew over 108 million viewers. Another example is the livestream of American climber Alex Honnold's ascent of a Taiwan skyscraper, which attracted 6.2 million viewers.
BTS remains a key revenue driver for Hybe, with the company's operating profit declining during the band's hiatus. The group's activities, including concerts, merchandise, and streaming, are anticipated to boost earnings moving forward.
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