Chile authorizes BTS concerts in Santiago after initial denial

The Chilean government has authorized BTS concerts at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago for October 14, 16, and 17, reversing an earlier denial that sparked widespread fan protests. The Instituto Nacional del Deporte (IND) approved the use of the stadium after the organizer made technical modifications to protect the grass, including avoiding heavy machinery on the field and using cranes from the athletic track Source: infobae. The modifications, backed by an engineering study, aim to reduce recovery time for the pitch Source: emolcl.

Background

Initial rejection on July 2 was based on concerns over damage to the hybrid grass from the 360° stage setup Source: emolcl. This led to protests by thousands of fans, known as ARMY, who marched to La Moneda palace with signs like "BTS al Nacional" Source: diariolibree.

Key points

• 200,000 tickets sold out in April despite lacking official authorization Source: diariolibree.
• BTS last performed in Chile over a decade ago; the group is considered the most successful K-pop act globally Source: infobae.
• The IND emphasized that the decision was based on technical criteria, not political pressure Source: emolcl.