Fans pose for photos in front of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza as it is illuminated in purple light to mark the 10-year anniversary of K-pop megastars BTS, in Seoul on June 12, 2023. Fans of K-pop megastars BTS flocked to hotspots around Seoul on June 12 to mark the supergroup's 10-year anniversary, with South Korea unveiling a special commemorative stamp series to celebrate. (PHOTO / AFP)

SEOUL - Fans of K-Pop supergroup BTS gathered in the heart of the South Korean capital Seoul on Monday to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the boy band's debut.

Although the group is on hiatus with two of the members currently doing mandatory military service, many of their loyal global fanbase called "ARMY" still gathered in Seoul this week.

Organisations and businesses are also joining the celebration, with the city of Seoul working with BTS' management agency HYBE to set up a tour of landmarks associated with BTS. South Korea's postal service released special commemorative stamps of BTS' debut anniversary

The seven-member group have gained a huge international following after breaking ground for K-Pop's global success including in the US music charts and industry awards.

ALSO READ: Kimberly Akimbo, Leopoldstadt win on writerless Tony night

Landmarks such as Seoul City Hall and Namsan Tower were lit purple, BTS' signature colour, while dozens of fans from France, Mexico and elsewhere came to enjoy the sights.

ALSO READ: Tibetan opera hits high notes among youngsters

"I came to Korea last week and I am very surprised and excited to see the Namsan Tower purple," said Rita, a 20-year-old student from France who has been an ARMY since 2018.

Organisations and businesses are also joining the celebration, with the city of Seoul working with BTS' management agency HYBE to set up a tour of landmarks associated with BTS. South Korea's postal service released special commemorative stamps of BTS' debut anniversary.

The landmark Namsan Seoul Tower is illuminated in purple to celebrate the 10th debut anniversary of K-pop megastars BTS in Seoul on June 12, 2023. Fans of K-pop megastars BTS flocked to hotspots around Seoul on June 12 to mark the supergroup's 10-year anniversary, with South Korea unveiling a special commemorative stamp series to celebrate. (PHOTO / AFP)

Companies such as Hyundai Department Store, Lotte Shopping unit Lotte Cinema, and S-Oil have introduced special offers or events.

READ MORE: Boy George says he still wants to startle people 'a little bit'

The celebrations are expected to hit a climax on Saturday, when BTS leader RM is expected to meet fans - followed by fireworks near the Han River, which bisects Seoul.

"Thank you for teaching us a little, or maybe even too much, about happiness and love," member JungKook told fans in a Twitter message on Sunday. "I want to keep walking with you all for the next 10 years as well".