Chilean government says BTS concert can proceed if producer protects stadium grass
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Chile's government stated that the South Korean band BTS's concerts can proceed if the producer presents a mitigation plan to protect the Estadio Nacional's grass.
- The National Institute of Sports had previously suspended the concerts due to concerns that a 360-degree stage would damage the field.
- The Sports Minister expressed empathy for fans' frustration but advised them to seek explanations from the producer for selling tickets before venue confirmation.
The Chilean government has indicated that the highly anticipated concerts by South Korean band BTS at the Estadio Nacional may still go ahead, provided the production company submits a viable plan to protect the stadium's turf.
If the producer presents us with new information compatible with the maintenance of the grass, we will cede the coliseum of the Estadio Nacional.
Minister of Sport Natalia Duco stated that if the producer presents "new information compatible with the maintenance of the grass," the government will "cede the coliseum of the Estadio Nacional." This statement follows the National Institute of Sports' previous suspension of the three October concerts, citing technical reasons related to potential damage to the pitch.
The institute warned that a 360-degree stage setup would harm the Santiago stadium's field, jeopardizing previously scheduled events like a national football team match and the Teletรณn charity drive. Duco acknowledged the "anger" of BTS fans, known as ARMY, but suggested they direct their concerns to the producer for selling tickets before securing official venue approval.
responds exclusively to technical criteria
Fans have protested the suspension in Santiago and other cities. The minister confirmed the government has given the producer "another opportunity" to resubmit documentation and is awaiting their response. BTS, a globally successful group, has not performed in Chile for over a decade.
empathizes with the anger of BTS followers
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.