[Dispatch=Reporter Lee Myung-ju] BTS is creating significant economic ripple effects through their North American tour. Cities hosting the concerts have proclaimed 'BTS Week.'

BTS opened their North American leg on April 25-26 and 28 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida as part of their world tour 'ARIRANG.'

The next venue is Sunbowl Stadium in El Paso, Texas. The tour will take place on May 2-3. BTS is the first Korean group to perform at this location.

The excitement extends beyond ARMY, the fanbase, to the entire city. El Paso County Commission awarded BTS the 'Estimado Amigo' award on April 27 (Korean time).

The award recognizes the group's contribution to activating local tourism through this tour. The performance dates of May 2-3 have been designated as 'El Paso BTS Weekend.'

Bureau Chief Brook Underwood projected that "BTS's concert will generate approximately $75 million (approximately 110.5 billion won) in economic impact."

The fandom's activities were also highlighted. ARMY's fundraising efforts to illuminate 'Star on the Mountain' in purple was noted.

Meanwhile, BTS will continue their world tour across 34 cities with 85 shows total. This marks the largest scale for a single Korean artist tour.

<Photo source=Big Hit Music, Ricardo Samaniego El Paso County Judge SNS capture>