BTS battle torrential rain to kick off $1bn world tour

BTS battle torrential rain to kick off $1bn world tour6 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleMark SavageMusic correspondentBig Hit / BTSThe band's world tour kicked off during a massive rain storm, but that didn't stop 40,000 fans from celebrating their idols' returnBTS were battered by the elements as they kicked off their marathon world tour in Goyang Stadium, South Korea.The band, and their fans, were drenched by heavy downpours throughout the open-air show."It's raining like crazy," said V, splashing through puddles on the giant, 360-degree stage. Suga likened the venue to "a water park", while Jimin said the conditions had left him "frustrated and stressed". "But that's not what's important," he told the audience. "What's important is that you're here with us."The group gave it their all despite the weather, delivering a high-octane, pulse-quickening, complete with a 23-song setlist.Jimin toweled down his bandmate V's hair as the rain stretched into the concert's second hourAfter a four-year hiatus, during which the band's members completed mandatory military service, BTS were fully re-energised and clearly happy to be back on stage.V even made a feature of the persistent precipitation, lying down on the rain-soaked stage and pretending to do the breast stroke, while performing an impromptu version of the band's comeback single, Swim."Watch out!" said the band's leader RM, who recently sustained an ankle injury during rehearsals. "You might get hurt like me."As it happened: BTS launch their Arirang World TourThe 31-year-old, who performed from a stool during a promotional concert last month was back on his feet for the opening night of the world tour - which took place in his hometown.However, he was carried around the stadium on a makeshift throne during a "meet the audience" segment, suggesting his torn liga...