AceShowbiz - RM, the leader of the globally renowned group BTS, recently sustained an ankle injury just before their highly anticipated comeback concert in Seoul, which will affect his ability to perform fully during the event.

The injury was confirmed in a statement released by the group's label, BigHit Music, on Friday, March 20, via Weverse. The company disclosed that RM experienced the ankle injury during a rehearsal on March 19. He was promptly taken to a hospital for a thorough examination and subsequent treatment.

The medical evaluation revealed a sprain of the accessory navicular, a partial ligament tear, and a talus contusion. This combination of injuries includes ligament damage and inflammation, which necessitates immediate and careful medical attention.

As a result of the injury, RM must wear a cast for at least two weeks to allow proper healing. This will inevitably limit his movements on stage during the comeback performance. BigHit Music emphasized that RM’s participation in choreography and other physically demanding parts of the show will be “partially limited” to avoid worsening the injury.

Despite these restrictions, RM expressed a strong desire to deliver a memorable and high-quality performance at this significant comeback event, which is set to take place at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. Nevertheless, the label, in close consultation with the artist, decided to prioritize medical advice to prevent any further strain or damage.

The statement from BigHit read, “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.” They also asked for fans’ understanding and apologized for any disappointment caused by the situation, especially considering the high expectations surrounding the performance.

The announcement came just one day before BTS’s first concert in several years, scheduled for Saturday, March 21, at Gwanghwamun Square. This live event will also be streamed globally on Netflix, providing access to fans worldwide who cannot attend in person.

Following this comeback concert, BTS is set to travel to New York City. Their itinerary includes participating in a Spotify fan event and making an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. These appearances will celebrate their new album ARIRANG, which was released on March 17 and marks BTS’s first full-length album since 2020’s chart-topping Be.

The comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square is expected to attract over 250,000 attendees. Due to the massive crowd size and security concerns, Seoul authorities have raised the terror alert level by one notch in preparation for the event. Approximately 6,500 police officers, 70 riot control units, and 5,400 specialized equipment pieces will be deployed to maintain order and safety.

Members of BTS, including RM and Jin, have urged their fans, known as ARMY, to behave responsibly and follow all safety guidelines during the concert. On Weverse, RM posted a message requesting attendees to comply with the instructions of security personnel and maintain an orderly atmosphere. He also expressed gratitude toward the police officers, fire department, government officials, and local authorities for their efforts to ensure a safe experience.

To provide full transparency, BigHit Music shared the complete official letter regarding RM’s condition and participation in the upcoming comeback live event. The letter detailed the injury diagnosis and treatment plan, emphasizing that RM will be wearing a cast and limiting his movement for at least two weeks as recommended by doctors.

The letter reiterated that while RM is committed to performing, the company prioritized his health by restricting his physical activity on stage. They acknowledged the fans’ anticipation and apologized for any disappointment but stressed that the artist’s wellbeing remains paramount.

Despite the limitations, RM will still appear on stage and engage with the audience as much as possible. The label expressed their determination to deliver a heartfelt and sincere performance in collaboration with all BTS members, who have been preparing diligently for this significant comeback.

BigHit concluded the message by asking for continued encouragement and support from fans as the group navigates this unexpected challenge. They assured supporters that RM will receive all necessary care to make a full recovery and return to performing at his best.

This development adds a new layer of complexity to BTS’s long-awaited return, but the group’s dedication to their craft and fans remains unwavering. The upcoming concert will undoubtedly be a historic moment with or without full choreography by RM, showcasing BTS’s resilience and commitment to their music and audience.