BTS, heading to South America… Argentina selects as 'honorary guest'

[Dispatch=Lee Myeong-ju Reporter] BTS is taking South America by storm. Cities across the region are buzzing ahead of their performances.

BTS will kick off their world tour 'ARIRANG' South American leg on October 3-4 (Korean time) at Estadio El Campín in Bogotá, Colombia.

Bogotá has highlighted BTS's visit as a major cultural event. Visit Bogotá, operated by the Bogotá Tourism Board, introduced 'ARIRANG' through their platform.

Regarding BTS, they described the group as "representing 21st century global pop based on music, performances, and bonds with ARMY (the fandom name) around the world."

La Plata, Argentina, has mobilized both the city and concert producers for a large-scale welcome. El Día predicted that "more than 150,000 spectators will attend."

In response, Mayor Julio Alak held working meetings with concert producers and officials from La Plata's security and city management departments. They discussed comprehensive operational plans.

Mayor Alak stated, "We are preparing to welcome visitors coming to our city in the best possible way to enjoy a world-class event."

La Plata City Council unanimously passed a motion during their July regular meeting to designate BTS as "Huésped de Honor" (Guest of Honor).

"Huésped de Honor" is the highest level of official courtesy granted to dignitaries visiting the city or prominent figures in global culture and arts according to La Plata municipal ordinance.

Peru's El Comercio recently reported on the K-pop cultural event "Road to Seven: El Comienzo" that Lima held to commemorate BTS's tour.

The event was held on December 12-13 at Lima Fountains Park, a nighttime tourist attraction in the city. It is located within the world's largest public park fountain complex, which is listed in the Guinness World Records.

Chile used its official tourism promotion site Chile Travel to introduce BTS's Santiago performance as a major event in the "festivals and events—culture and heritage" category.

Chile Travel said, "The K-pop wave is landing in Chile" and predicted that "Santiago will transform into a global center of K-pop with BTS's return."

Meanwhile, BTS will hold a total of 14 performances across 5 South American cities. Among these, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina are first-time visit destinations.