<p data-testid="paragraph-0">SEOUL, June 12 (Reuters) - 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.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-1">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.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-2">The seven-member group has gained a huge international following after breaking ground for K-Pop's global success including in the U.S. music charts and industry awards.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-2">Landmarks such as Seoul City Hall and Namsan Tower were lit purple, BTS' signature color, while dozens of fans from France, Mexico, and elsewhere came to enjoy the sights.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-4">"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.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-5">Organizations 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 for BTS' debut anniversary.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-6">Companies such as Hyundai Department Store, Lotte Shopping&nbsp;unit Lotte Cinema, and S-Oil have introduced special offers or events.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-7">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.</p>
<p data-testid="paragraph-8">"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".</p>
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<div>(Reporting by Minwoo Park and Daewoung Kim; Writing by Joyce Lee; Editing by Angus MacSwan)</div>

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Fans celebrate K-Pop supergroup BTS' 10-year anniversary