The seven K-pop stars – RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook – form the world’s most successful band in recent years and performed together for what may well be the year’s biggest pop music event.

Set against the backdrop of a 14th Century gateway to the royal palace, the band’s one-hour set included songs from their long-awaited new album, Arirang, which was released on Friday afternoon.

About 22,000 watched in standing-only spots stretching from Gwanghwamun Square to Seoul City Hall. Many fans also watched the concert on large outdoor screens set up on nearby buildings, while others gathered around the plaza to catch the performance.

Entering Seoul’s central Gwanghwamun square was like stepping into a temple dedicated to the boyband. It was covered in purple, the signature colour of BTS, according to a BBC News report.

The stage itself resembled a triumphal arch in a rare honour paid to the seven idols who have become the face of Korea’s cultural success.

The band begins a world tour next month, which is expected to rake in US$1 billion in revenue, but the South Korean government has said its contribution goes far beyond money.