The Chilean government has changed its decision on BTS’ upcoming concerts in Santiago after thousands of ARMY fans staged peaceful protests across the country.
Authorities will now review conditional approval for the group’s three planned shows at the National Stadium, following strong public pressure over the earlier refusal.
The controversy began on July 2 when Chile’s National Sports Institute (Instituto Nacional de Deportes, IND) announced that BTS would not be allowed to use the National Stadium for their ARIRANG World Tour concerts on October 14, 16 and 17. The agency said the decision was based on technical concerns, including possible damage to the stadium’s grass field due to the group’s planned 360-degree stage.
The concerts were expected to be BTS’ first performance in Chile since 2017’s WINGS Tour. Each show was expected to welcome around 48,000 fans, with nearly 150,000 attendees expected across all three dates, AllKPop reported.
Tickets had already sold out after going on sale in April, making the venue issue a major disappointment for fans who had waited nearly nine years for the group’s return.
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Following the announcement, members of the Chilean ARMY launched peaceful demonstrations on July 5. Fans dressed in purple, BTS’ symbolic color, gathered in Santiago and marched to the presidential palace, La Moneda, singing BTS songs. They carried signs with messages such as “Bring BTS to the National Stadium,” “No BTS No Life” and “Today We Fight.”
Similar protests also took place in 11 cities in Chile. Fans said the decision affected their long-awaited opportunity to see BTS perform in their country.
According to ChosunBiz, one protester told Spanish news agency EFE: “They can’t cancel the concert. It takes away the chance for us to meet the artists we love and who have helped support our lives.”
The IND had explained that the stage setup could put a heavy burden on the stadium pitch and interfere with future sporting events. The agency also criticized concert organizer DG Medios for selling tickets before receiving final approval for the venue.
However, the decision was criticized by fans, lawmakers and some industry observers. Critics argued that the alternative venues suggested by officials would not be large enough to accommodate the audiences expected by BTS.
Chilean MP Alejandro Bernales also warned that the cancellation of the concerts could have a negative impact on the country’s economy and international image. Amid growing pressure, the government announced on July 6 that it would reconsider approval if organizers installed a protection system that meets all technical requirements to preserve the stadium.
Meanwhile, BTS’ ARIRANG World Tour continues its global success. The tour topped Billboard’s Top Tours chart and has generated significant revenue since launch, with shows planned in 34 cities around the world.
