According to the Associated Press (AP), thousands of ARMY members gathered in downtown Santiago on July 5 (local time), carrying banners reading “Bring BTS to the National Stadium” to protest against the government’s decision.
During the peaceful march, fans sang along to BTS’ biggest hits as they made their way to the area surrounding the La Moneda Presidential Palace. Many attendees wore purple, the signature color that represents BTS and its fans around the world. One fan told Spanish news agency EFE: “We’re really angry. It’s hard to accept losing the opportunity to see the artists we love.”
The controversy stems from a decision by the Chilean National Institute of Sports (IND), the government body responsible for managing the National Stadium.
The IND refused to approve permits for BTS’ three scheduled October concerts, citing technical concerns regarding the production. According to the agency, the proposed 360-degree stage, weighing an estimated 600 tons, could damage the stadium’s playing surface and interfere with upcoming sporting events scheduled after the concerts.
Officials stressed that the decision was based solely on technical and operational considerations rather than opposition to the performances themselves.
The Chilean government also said concert promoter DG Medios began selling tickets before obtaining final approval to use the National Stadium. That revelation fueled further public debate, with many wondering why tickets were released before all permits for the venue had been finalized.
Despite the negative reaction, there may still be a way forward. On July 5, Chile’s National Sports Institute announced that the event organizer had submitted a revised technical proposal designed to comply with current regulations while ensuring that the stadium can continue to host future sporting events without damage. The updated plan raised hopes that concerts could still receive approval if all technical requirements are successfully met.
According to the current schedule, BTS is ready to bring their own Around the world ARIRANG to South America this October with stops at:
- Bogota, Colombia
- Lima, Peru
- Santiago, Chile
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Sao Paulo, Brazil
If Santiago’s concerts are ultimately approved, they will mark the first time a K-pop artist will hold a concert at Chile’s National Stadium, representing a major milestone for the continued growth of Hallyu across South America.
For now, fans remain hopeful that negotiations between organizers and Chilean authorities will allow the historic concerts to proceed as planned.
Sources: MK.kr
