Mexico city: K-pop powerhouse BTS captivated approximately 150,000 fans during a trio of sold-out concerts in Mexico City, as confirmed by the group's agency on Tuesday. The performances, part of the band's "Arirang" world tour, marked BTS's first solo concerts in Mexico since July 2015. Demand for tickets was immense, with all three dates selling out immediately upon release.
According to Yonhap News Agency, BTS infused local cultural elements into their shows, featuring dancers in traditional "lucha libre" masks during the song "Aliens." Additionally, member V engaged with the audience by picking up a "banderilla," a popular Mexican snack, during the performance of "Idol." A notable highlight was the song "Airplane pt. 2," which includes the lyrics "We goin' from Mexico City," resonating strongly with the local crowd.
The band expressed their appreciation to the fans by stating, "You were truly the best. What more can we say? We will definitely come back to Mexico." They also connected with the audience by speaking in Spanish, acknowledging the vibrant energy emanating from the Zocalo square. On Wednesday, an estimated 50,000 fans gathered in front of the National Palace to catch a glimpse of the band as they met with President Claudia Sheinbaum. BTS greeted fans from the palace balcony, joined by the Mexican president following their discussions.
Local authorities reported that approximately 35,000 individuals assembled outside the Estadio GNP Seguros, the concert venue, on both Saturday and Sunday. The large crowds extended into surrounding streets, necessitating partial traffic management measures. The Mexico City Chamber of Commerce projected that the concerts would generate an economic impact of roughly US$107.5 million, factoring in expenses related to tickets, transportation, accommodation, and food.
BTS is set to continue their world tour with performances in Stanford, California, on Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday, before moving on to Las Vegas later in the month. The group is also scheduled to perform in Busan on June 12-13, with the second show coinciding with the 13th anniversary of their debut.