As BTS prepares for their highly anticipated ARIRANG World Tour, marking their first extensive concert series since completing mandatory military service, fans are meticulously analyzing every detail. The setlist has emerged as a particularly intense topic of discussion within the global ARMY community.
Why 'HOME' and 'Love Maze' Are Missing from the BTS ARIRANG World Tour
Two beloved fan favorites, 'HOME' and 'Love Maze', are widely anticipated to be absent from the tour lineup. For many ARMY members, this omission feels deeply personal, as these tracks have soundtracked quiet late nights and long commutes, becoming emotional touchstones. However, the reason for their likely exclusion extends far beyond musical considerations or performance flow.
Early reports indicate the decision is rooted in ethics and accountability, themes BTS has consistently championed throughout their career. According to a Mid-Day report, the group and their management are distancing themselves from music connected to a composer who later faced legal trouble and criminal conviction involving serious misconduct.
"Reports suggest that the decision is related to ethical concerns involving a former collaborator," the report states, adding that this reflects a "conscious effort by BTS and their management to distance the group from music linked to a disputed past association."
The Quiet Pattern of Exclusion
Over the years, observant fans have noticed a subtle pattern developing. Songs associated with this composer have gradually disappeared from live performances, official DVDs, and curated playlists. There were no public announcements or explanations—just a noticeable absence. The expected omission of 'HOME' and 'Love Maze' from the ARIRANG World Tour appears to continue this established pattern.
While BTS has not issued a formal public statement regarding these specific setlist decisions, their consistent actions often carry more weight than official press releases. The group has long emphasized integrity, self-reflection, and evolving beyond previous versions of themselves, making this choice appear intentional rather than reactive.
ARMY Reactions to BTS ARIRANG World Tour Setlist Changes
The fandom's response has been largely positive yet understandably divided. Some fans express genuine sadness, viewing these tracks not merely as songs but as emotional timestamps tied to specific eras and feelings that cannot be easily replicated. Their absence feels like a small but significant goodbye.
Conversely, many ARMY members support the decision, believing that maintaining ethical standards matters more than personal comfort, even if it means leaving cherished favorites behind. These fans interpret the move through the lens BTS themselves have created—one that prioritizes integrity and growth, even at emotional cost.
The Bigger Picture: BTS's Next Chapter
Despite setlist debates, the overall excitement surrounding the tour remains undiminished. Most fans are focused on what this concert series represents: BTS reuniting on stadium stages worldwide and opening their next artistic chapter. The shows are expected to heavily feature fresh material from their upcoming album ARIRANG, balanced with classic hits that transformed casual listeners into devoted fans.
The absence of specific tracks underscores an important artistic principle: what artists choose not to perform can convey messages as powerful as what they include. In this case, the gap left by 'HOME' and 'Love Maze' highlights BTS's commitment to ethical consistency, demonstrating that their values extend beyond lyrics into practical decisions about their artistic legacy.
