The group BTS received state-level honors in Mexico, once again demonstrating the stature of a "global icon." Expectations of economic effects of as much as 155.7 billion won added to the astonishment.
On the 6th (local time) President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico directly announced the news of BTS's visit to the presidential office at her regular press conference, the mañanera. Going beyond a simple courtesy, she opened the presidential balcony and greeted citizens, a dramatic move that became a major topic locally.
In fact, BTS visited the presidential office in Mexico City that day and met with President Sheinbaum for about 40 minutes. The invitation was reportedly made as an official proposal from the president's office, which drew even more attention.
The Mexican government honored BTS as "Visitantes Distinguidos" and presented them with a commemorative plaque. The plaque reportedly recognized BTS's contribution in inspiring Mexican youth through their music and conveying values of respect and empathy · diversity · peace.
In particular, the members went up to the balcony with the president and directly greeted the citizens gathered in the Zócalo, and with about 50,000 fans filling the square, BTS responded to fans in Spanish and received a warm ovation.
President Sheinbaum also did not hide her affection for BTS. She praised them, saying, "BTS's music conveys messages of friendship, peace and love," and later on social media she wrote, "We happily welcomed the group most loved by Mexican youth. Their music and values connect Mexico and Korea." In doing so, they effectively served as a "cultural envoy."
Perhaps that is why the economic effect is also enormous. The Mexico City Chamber of Commerce estimated that this event would generate economic ripple effects of about $107.5 million, approximately 155.7 billion won. Locally, a "BTS boom" atmosphere is already said to be continuing.
In fact, according to the global music platform Spotify, Mexico ranks fifth worldwide in K-pop consumption. Among them, BTS was identified as the most streamed K-pop artist by local fans, and Dynamite ranked as the most streamed K-pop song locally, proving its unrivaled influence.
Meanwhile, BTS released their fifth studio album, ARIRANG, last March and are currently promoting it. Now on their North American tour, they will hold concerts over three days in Mexico City at Estadio GNP Seguros on the 7th and the 9th–10th. All three shows are sold out, once again proving BTS's power.<
[Photo] "BigHit"
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