BTS returned to the U.S. iHeartRadio Music Festival for the first time in approximately six years, taking the stage as the final act at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on September 18, 2026. The 7-member team closed day one of the two-day festival with a performance built around the theme “BTS 2.0,” utilizing visuals, lighting and special effects to show their evolution as a group and the beginning of a new era.
BTS on the carpet at iHeart Radio Music Festival in Las Vegas. pic.twitter.com/gkiDxtrJpY
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) September 19, 2026
The boy group’s set began with “SWIM,” the title track from BTS’ fifth studio album, ARIRANG. Giant water tanks and wave-like visuals appeared across the LED screens as blue lighting accompanied the song. The stage design continued to change throughout the performance, expanding alongside the members’ movements and creating the impression of the seven group members moving forward together.
Before their festival appearance, BTS spoke about returning to the festival after six years and expressed their appreciation for ARMY, their fans. The “Dynamite” singers said, “You are truly the best fans in the world. It’s amazing how you sing along to every Korean lyric.” Meanwhile, the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Festival took place on September 18 and 19 and featured artists including BTS, Cardi B, LE SSERAFIM, Snoop Dogg, and Benson Boone.
