BTS made their live debut in the UK last night (October 9), performing a sold-out show at London’s O2 arena to a crowd of 20,000.
Jungkook, one member of the seven-piece K-pop sensation, broke down on stage after an earlier heel injury left him unable to dance.
Before the concert began, an announcement was made about the incident: “Approximately two hours ago following rehearsal and sound check, Jungkook was lightly stretching in the waiting room when he collided with floor furnishings and suffered an injury to his heel.”
The statement continued: “Medical staff immediately responded and performed the necessary treatment. The opinion of the medical team is that while the injury is not serious, performing choreography may do further damage to the injured area. Following the advice of medical staff, Jungkook will take part in the performance tonight but [will] remain seated without choreography.”
The star sat for most of the gig at the side of the stage on a stool on top of a moving platform so he could be wheeled on and off stage.
During the penultimate song closer, ‘Anpanman’, Jungkook started to cry, appearing to be overcome by the incident. Jimin, meanwhile, ran to comfort his bandmate before they all stood to sing concert closer ‘Answer: Love Myself.’
Jungkook, meanwhile, replaced his speech and apologised for not being able to dance. The fans, knows as ARMYs chanted “it’s okay” back together with Jung Kook’s name. He then started to cry again. RM said “it’s never your fault” and the remaining members of the band rallying around their friend.
Reviewing their live show in NYC last week, NME wrote: “It’s…the first time they – or any Korean musicians – have ever played a stadium on this continent.”
“It’s an impressive achievement, reaching a level of this kind while performing songs whose lyrics are largely in Korean to an audience of all races, and one that…can be put down to the effects of social media and globalisation…BTS have already made history but, as they tell their fans, this is really just the beginning.”
It was also announced yesterday (October 10) that BTS will be getting their very own movie in November, with their 2017 documentary Burn The Stage getting a full cinematic release.
Originally released as an 8-part series on YouTube, the episodes will now be condensed into an 85 minute film ready for a cinema release on November 15.
The film follows the band’s 2017 ‘Wings’ tour and will also feature backstage and behind-the-scenes footage of K-pop megastars.
The full set list from last night’s show is below:
Set List, O2 Arena – London, October 9
Idol
Save ME + I’m Fine
Magic Shop
Euphoria
I NEED U
RUN
Serendipity
DNA
Boyz With Fun/Attack On Bangtan/FIRE/Silver Spoon/Dope (Medley)
Airplane Pt. 2
Singularity
FAKE LOVE
Epiphany
The Truth Untold
Tear
MIC Drop
So What
Anpanman
Answer: Love Myself