On August 19, 2026, South Korea celebrates the 20th anniversary of one of the most famous, most controversial, most scandal-ridden, and most trendsetting groups in K-pop history – BIGBANG.

Without them, much like without Seo Taiji and Boys or H.O.T – the founding fathers of K-pop – the genre would be unrecognisable. Yet few groups can claim a legacy that is simultaneously so glorious and so tarnished.

Just three of the original five members will perform at the anniversary events: G‑DRAGON, TAEYANG, and DAESUNG.

T.O.P has left the group and will not be attending the events, not even as a guest. He is currently focused on his new solo album and work under his own label. His departure stems from a scandal in 2016, when he was convicted on marijuana charges. The case severely damaged his reputation and, by his own admission, caused enormous harm to BIGBANG's image. That is why, when his contract expired in 2022, he chose not to renew it. 

Seungri's situation was even more serious. He became embroiled in the Burning Sun investigation in 2019 – and it cost him dearly. He was found guilty on nine counts, including procuring prostitution, fraud, and illegal gambling. He served his sentence and was released on February 9, 2023. Since then, he has virtually vanished from public view. However, reports have surfaced of a fresh scandal involving nightlife establishments in Cambodia, with claims that Seungri had been in close contact with members of that country's criminal underworld – allegations he has vehemently denied. Unsurprisingly, he will not be present at the 20th anniversary celebrations.

On the anniversary day itself, August 19, BIGBANG will release their first digital single in four years, "BiiiG". The music video will be screened on the large display at Shinsegae Square at 18:00, 19:00, 20:00, and 21:00.

The "BIGBANG 20th Anniversary X Hangang Collaboration" - a free show for fans - will take place on August 19 at 20:00 on the Mulbit Stage in Yeouido Park. The programme features a DJ set with new versions of the group's hits, a video retrospective of their career, and a multimedia show combining media art and a live orchestra. The evening will close with a spectacular drone display and fireworks over the Han River.

A giant floating LED screen will be installed on the water beside the stage, with additional screens along the riverbank to ensure that everyone in attendance has a clear view.

The event will be broadcast live on Coupang Play.

The "Moonlight Rainbow Fountain" on Banpo Bridge - the longest bridge-fountain in the world - is already running a special show set to BIGBANG's music.

Since August 15, Lotte Department Store Jamsil has been hosting an exhibition dedicated to the group's creative journey. Visitors can explore media art, member holograms, and other interactive installations.

After the anniversary events, BIGBANG will embark on a world tour, "BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR 'XX : COSMOS'." The title plays on the Roman numeral for twenty ("XX") – a nod to the two decades spent with their fans – and the idea of an eternal connection ("COSMOS"). The tour will span 19 cities and 33 concerts.

The opening shows will take place in South Korea at Goyang Stadium on August 21, 22, and 23, 2026.

The tour will then visit the following cities: Auckland (September 5), New York/East Rutherford (September 11), Paris (September 19), London (September 26), Taipei (October 10-11), Singapore (October 17), Hanoi (October 24-25), Sydney (October 31), Hong Kong (November 13-15), Osaka (November 27-29), Nagoya (December 5-6), Tokyo (December 13-15), Fukuoka (December 26-27), Kuala Lumpur (January 9, 2027), Jakarta (January 16, 2027), and Kaohsiung (February 27-28, 2027).

This is the group's first tour in nine years.

BIGBANG's influence is so profound that they are often described as "idols to idols." Among those who have cited them as an inspiration are BTS, IU, BLACKPINK, GOT7, and many more.

BIGBANG were pioneers in bringing K-pop to the global stage. Their success captured the West's attention and turned the Korean Wave into a worldwide phenomenon.

Their 2012 album "Alive" made history as the first K-pop record to enter the US Billboard 200 chart – a landmark moment for the industry. The music video for "Fantastic Baby" was the first K-pop group video to surpass 100 million views on YouTube; it has now exceeded 540 million.

BIGBANG also set a benchmark for large-scale touring in K-pop. Their 2012 "Alive Galaxy Tour" drew a record-breaking 1.5 million attendees.

Their 2011 win at the MTV Europe Music Awards marked a significant moment of recognition for K-pop in Europe.

And, of course... it was BIGBANG who invented the light stick – those glowing batons now synonymous with the K-pop concert experience.
 

Sources 1, 2