BTS held their world tour ‘Arirang’ at Estadio GNP Seguros in Mexico City on the 7th and 9th–10th (local time), meeting approximately 150,000 attendees. This performance marked their first full-group solo concert in Mexico in approximately 10 years and 10 months since July 2015, with all three shows selling out immediately upon ticket release.

BTS moved Mexico City. The venue was filled with audience chants, and those who failed to secure tickets gathered around the stadium, causing the city to buzz with excitement for BTS.

BTS captivated Mexico with solid live performances and flawless synchronized dance routines. The audience enthusiastically sang along to Korean lyrics. The ‘Airplane Pt. 2’ stage was the highlight of the concert. The members spontaneously chose this song during their impromptu performance segment, moving the audience with the lyrics, “We’re going from Mexico City.”

Incorporating Mexican culture into their performances also garnered strong reactions. Dancers wearing lucha libre masks, a traditional Mexican wrestling style, appeared during the ‘Aliens’ stage. V’s scene enjoying the local snack Banderilla during the ‘Idol’ performance quickly spread on social media.

The members shared, “You were truly the best. What more can I say? We will definitely return to Mexico.” They also expressed in Spanish, “We will never forget the energy that started from the Zócalo Square. We are taking home many precious memories of Mexico,” while thanking the audience.

The atmosphere outside the venue was equally heated. Local authorities estimated that approximately 35,000 fans surrounded the stadium on the second and third days. The crowds spilled onto nearby roads, leading to temporary traffic controls. The LA Times reported, “It is rare for a boy band to become a topic of international diplomacy,” covering the Mexican president’s official invitation to the presidential office and the citizens’ explosive reactions. The outlet noted that over 1 million people attempted to purchase tickets, with many gathering around the venue despite failing to enter.

The economic impact of BTS, dubbed ‘BTSnomics,’ has drawn significant attention. The Mexico City Chamber of Commerce estimated the concert would generate approximately $107.5 million (around 155.7 billion Korean won) in economic effects, including ticket sales, aviation, accommodation, food and beverages, and local commerce. Tourism inflows were projected to contribute approximately $17 million (around 24.6 billion Korean won) to the accommodation sector, while food and service consumption was estimated at $2.18 million (around 3.2 billion Korean won).

BTS will continue their tour at Stanford Stadium on the 16th–17th and 19th. In anticipation of their performances, the city’s transportation infrastructure is mobilizing. The Santa Clara Valley Transportation District (VTA) announced via its official SNS that it will operate special bus routes for the concerts.