K-pop boy band BTS met Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum at the National Palace in Mexico City on Wednesday(local time), greeting the public from the palace balcony ahead of the group’s three-night concert run in the capital as part of its “ARIRANG” world tour.
Sheinbaum, who confirmed the visit at a regular press briefing earlier in the day, described BTS as a band that “always carries messages of friendship, peace, and love.”
The meeting carries added weight given the president’s longstanding support for the group. In January, she welcomed the confirmation of their Mexico City tour dates, calling it a “historic moment” and noting how long younger Mexicans had waited for the shows.
Fans gathered outside the palace, holding signs that aread “BTS will always be in the heart of Mexico” and “Welcome to Mexico.” Some even moved to tears at the sight of the group.
According to AFP, the excitement for the impending show has been palpable on the streets of the Mexican capital. Fans gathered on Paseo de la Reforma for a promotional event, Monday, dancing to BTS songs and putting on temporary tattoos ahead of the shows.
“We do these types of events to emotionally and psychologically prepare ourselves, and to prepare the energy and vibe of the place,” Jude Pelaez, one of the attendees, was quoted as saying. “That makes Mexico different.”
The Mexico City Chamber of Commerce estimated the concerts will generate an economic ripple effect of approximately $107.5 million.
BTS will perform at Estadio GNP Seguros on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. All three shows sold out shortly after tickets went on sale.
