"South America has been dyed in Arirang"…BTS draws 850,000 across five countries

[Dispatch=Reporter Lee Myung-ju] BTS heated up all of South America. They were with approximately 850,000 audience members.

BTS completed their world tour 'ARIRANG' South American concerts on the 28th and 30-31st of last month at the Morumbi Stadium in São Paulo, Brazil.

This tour ran from Bogotá on the 2nd of last month through Lima, Santiago, and Buenos Aires to São Paulo. All shows sold out.

BTS performed tracks from their regular 5th album 'ARIRANG' as well as hit songs including 'Fake Love', 'Fire', 'Idol', 'Butter', and 'Dynamite'.

The members said, "Since it's difficult to meet South American (fans) frequently, this was one of the most anticipated schedules. We were excited even before coming, and it was indeed remarkable."

They continued, "One of the happiest memories in my life was created here," and shared their impressions saying, "We will cherish this memory and return."

They held their first complete group stages in Colombia and Argentina, and visited Peru for the first time. They reunited with fans in Chile (9 years) and Brazil (7 years).

Local media also took notice. Peru's 'El Comercio' noted the special experience, saying, "It is rare to encounter such a concert in Lima."

Argentina's 'La Nación' introduced BTS as a 'global phenomenon'. Regarding the tour, they conveyed that "everything is tailored to the audience."

Brazil's 'Bandwagon' described 'ARIRANG' as "a love letter to Brazilian fans." They also mentioned the Korean aesthetics on stage.

BTS also impacted the tourism industry of the host cities. In the case of the Buenos Aires concert, 96% of all audience members visited from outside.

Approximately 48,000 people stayed for at least one day or more. The amount spent on accommodation and leisure was estimated at approximately 53 billion Argentine pesos (approximately 46 billion won).

In Bogotá, flight bookings increased by 46.6% compared to the same period last year. Search volume for accommodations in Santiago also increased by 200%.

Meanwhile, BTS continues 'ARIRANG' in Asia and Australia. They head to Kaohsiung on the 19th.