BTS leader RM will have limited on-stage participation during the group’s highly anticipated comeback concert after sustaining an ankle injury during rehearsals.
On Friday, the group went live on Weverse, where RM shared the news with fans.
“We have been working on the concert. I worked hard. I did work hard but I hurt my ankle. I worked hard on my dance. I stayed behind and practiced more,” he said, as translated by the web platform.
RM, however, assured fans he would still be on stage and will do his best to recover in time.
“I will not be able to perform but I’ll be up on stage. Until the concert, I’ll try to get better. This is not a bad injury. But I’ll do my best to recuperate and prepare hard for the concerts coming up,” he said.
J-Hope explained that the members were also surprised by the injury, noting that RM had been putting in extra effort ahead of the comeback.
“I’m sure Namjoon is more upset than us,” he said.
Suga also noted that RM’s injury appeared more serious than a typical ankle sprain, pointing out that while such injuries can happen to him from time to time, this one was a bit more severe.
BigHit Music subsequently released an official statement detailing RM’s condition ahead of their March 21 show.
The label said RM sustained the injury on Thursday and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
“A medical diagnosis confirmed a sprain of the accessory navicular, a partial ligament tear, and a talus contusion (which includes ligament damage and inflammation),” it said.
Doctors advised that he wear a cast and strictly limit movement for at least two weeks to focus on recovery.
“While RM expressed a firm commitment to deliver a high-quality performance at this symbolic comeback stage at Gwanghwamun, the company, in close consultation with the artist, has made the decision to prioritize the medical opinion to preemptively prevent any further strain on his injury,” BigHit said.
Accordingly, RM’s on-stage performance, including choreography, will be partially limited.
“We ask for your kind understanding regarding this matter. We sincerely apologize for any disappointment this may cause, given the high anticipation surrounding this performance,” the statement added. “Although RM’s on-stage performance will inevitably be limited, he will do his best to participate on stage and engage with ARMY and the audience. We know you have waited a long time for this performance, and we will put our utmost effort into delivering a heartfelt show.”
“We prioritize our artists’ health and safety above all else, and are committed to providing RM with all the necessary support for his complete recovery and return to full health. The BTS members are preparing diligently for this performance. We ask for your continued encouragement and support.”
Ahead of the livestream, BTS made their long-awaited return with “Arirang.”
BTS also released the music video of the lead single, "Swim." Starring "Riverdale" actress Lili Reinhart, the MV features the boys in sailor suits, hanging around a ship.
On Saturday, they will stage a concert at the historic Gwanghwamun in Seoul. You can watch it live on Netflix at 7 p.m. (Philippine time).
On March 27, Netflix will release a documentary of the making of "Arirang."
In April, BTS will kick off their "Arirang" world tour, with the first two stops set to be broadcast in cinemas worldwide.
The Philippine stop is happening in March 2027. —Carby Rose Basina/JCB, GMA Integrated News
—Carby Rose Basina/JCB, GMA Integrated News