Hundreds of BTS fans took to the streets of Santiago, Chile, on Sunday, July 5, 2026, to protest the government’s decision to block the boy group’s three ARIRANG World Tour concerts in October. The fans stepped out wearing purple clothing and carrying balloons and signs, marching toward La Moneda presidential palace while singing BTS songs. The concerts had been announced for October 14, 2026, October 16, 2026, and October 17, 2026, at Estadio Nacional. The October 14 show was added after tickets for the other two days quickly sold out in April 2026. Fans called on authorities to allow BTS to perform at the stadium as initially announced.
INSANE! 🔥🇨🇱
ARMYs from different regions and cities across Chile are holding peaceful march throughout the country 👏
BTS al Nacional! #BTSALNACIONAL #BTSENCHILE #BTSCHILE #QUEREMOSABTSENELNACIONAL pic.twitter.com/klioJVZdJG
— BTS Charts News (@btschartsxdaily) July 5, 2026
Amid the protests, Chile’s Sports Minister Natalia Duco said the concerts have not been permanently canceled. Still, there is currently no other venue in Santiago or nearby cities that can host an audience of more than 48,000 people. Government officials explained that the National Sports Institute did not approve the use of Estadio Nacional because BTS’ current 360-degree stage would place around 600 tons of weight on the field. According to authorities, the stage could damage the playing surface and affect future sporting events scheduled at the venue.
In addition, officials criticized concert organizer DG Medios for selling tickets before receiving final approval to use the stadium. While the government has left the possibility of finding another solution open, no replacement location has been confirmed. Meanwhile, ARMY members hope that the concerts can still take place in Chile, although there is currently no confirmation that the October shows will take place as originally announced.
