RM of BTS to Perform with Limited Mobility Following Ankle Injury

RM, the leader of the globally renowned South Korean boy band BTS, sustained an ankle injury during rehearsal, impacting his ability to fully perform at the group’s highly anticipated comeback concert in Seoul on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Despite the injury, RM is determined to participate in the performance.

Injury Details and Recovery

According to a statement released by BigHit Music on Friday, March 20, RM suffered the injury during a performance rehearsal. Medical examination revealed a sprain of the accessory navicular, a partial ligament tear and a talus contusion, which includes ligament damage and inflammation. He will require a cast and limited movement for at least two weeks to focus on recovery [RM Wikipedia].

Impact on Performance

While RM expressed his commitment to delivering a high-quality performance at Gwanghwamun Square, BigHit Music, in consultation with medical professionals, has decided to partially limit his onstage movements, including choreography, to prevent further strain on his injury. The company stated they will prioritize his health and safety [RM Wikipedia].

Comeback Concert and Subsequent Events

The concert marks BTS’s first performance in years and is expected to draw over 250,000 attendees to Gwanghwamun Square. The event will also be livestreamed on Netflix. Following the Seoul concert, BTS is scheduled to travel to New York City for a Spotify fan event and an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to celebrate the release of their new album, ARIRANG, which arrived on Friday, March 21, 2026. ARIRANG is the band’s first full-length album since 2020’s Be [RM Wikipedia].

Safety Measures

Due to the large expected crowd, Seoul authorities have increased the terror alert level and are deploying 6,500 police officers, 70 riot control units, and 5,400 pieces of specialized equipment to ensure public safety. Both RM and fellow BTS member Jin have urged fans to follow the guidance of safety personnel and remain orderly during the performance.

BigHit Music’s Full Statement

BigHit Music released the following statement regarding RM’s injury:

“Hello. This is BIGHIT MUSIC.

We would like to provide an update on BTS member RM’s participation in “BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG,” scheduled for March 21.

During a performance rehearsal on March 19, RM suffered an ankle injury and was taken to a hospital to undergo a detailed examination and 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). As advised by medical professionals, he must wear a cast and strictly limit movement for a minimum of two weeks to concentrate solely on his 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.

Accordingly, RM’s on-stage performance, including choreography, will be partially limited.

We question for your kind understanding regarding this matter. We sincerely apologize for any disappointment this may cause, given the high anticipation surrounding this performance.

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 set 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.

Thank you.”