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The world-famous boy band BTS, known for breaking records and dominating global music charts, continues to wield massive influence not just culturally, but economically. On June 16, Korean media outlet Asia Economy delved into just how significant BTS’s return could be in 2025, especially after SUGA completes his mandatory military service. The report examined the potential financial ripple effect of their full-group comeback and gave impressive estimates for their projected annual earnings.
According to a recent study by the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, a single BTS concert could generate a staggering 1.2 trillion KRW (approximately 870 million USD) in economic impact. That’s a phenomenal figure, especially considering their last full-group concert took place back in October 2022. On a broader scale, the group’s projected annual revenue for 2025 could reach around 1.87 trillion KRW, showing just how powerful their return might be.
These estimates stem from previous data gathered during some of BTS’s most successful moments, such as when their 2020 English-language single Dynamite topped the Billboard Hot 100. Back then, South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute calculated the resulting economic boost at about 1.7 trillion KRW.
Even beyond the music industry, BTS has become a major contributor to South Korea’s overall economy. According to Forbes, the group adds approximately 4.65 billion USD (roughly 5 trillion KRW) to the country’s GDP annually. A report from the Hyundai Research Institute in 2018 had earlier valued their economic impact at over 4 trillion KRW, equivalent to the combined output of about 26 mid-sized companies.
Breaking down those figures, the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute found that BTS generates about 4.14 trillion KRW through production-related activities and another 1.42 trillion KRW through added value effects like tourism and brand promotion. Collectively, their influence amounts to roughly 0.3% of South Korea’s entire GDP, a striking testament to their global reach and economic significance.
As 2025 approaches, excitement is steadily building around the possibility of BTS reuniting as a full group. While no official schedule has been confirmed, industry buzz suggests that a world tour could come first, possibly followed by a new full-length album — their first since 2022’s Proof. Many believe the tour might feature a mix of solo tracks and iconic BTS hits, setting the stage for what could be one of the most impactful musical comebacks of the decade.