A Mexican TV entertainment program made remarks that appeared to belittle BTS and its fandom, sparking a strong backlash among local fans. As a segment on controversies over ticket sales for a popular concert slid into jeers at the participants, criticism spread that "even gossip should observe a line."
According to the YouTube and Instagram accounts of Mexico's Multimedios Channel 6 (Canal 6) on the 4th (local time), the entertainment program Chismorreo that aired at the end of last month addressed allegations of unfairness surrounding tickets for the BTS world tour concert in Mexico City. In a report-style video, the broadcast outlined suspicions including an undisclosed seating chart, an opaque fee structure, and signs of prearranged resales, as well as Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's announcement of response measures.
After watching the video, the panelists continued comments such as "It's natural for prices to rise the more popular the show." In the process, TV personality Luisa Fernanda said, "A concert by the famous singer Shakira in February is also sold out," adding, "Even though people feel exploited by expensive ticket prices, that's the level of their judgment."
Another participant, Fabián Lavalle, said, "If I had a 17-year-old daughter, I would make her do her homework," adding, "This is not the time to be sobbing over some unknown singer's concert." The host immediately tried to calm the mood by saying, "For many kids, seeing BTS in person is a dream," but Fernanda fanned the controversy by saying, "Half the fans probably didn't even properly finish elementary school but still try to go to the concert."
After the broadcast, criticism poured in on clips of the show and on Mexican ARMY (the name of the BTS fandom) social media that "they mocked fans" and "they blatantly revealed prejudice." Fans posted proofs of their jobs and education, protesting the view that "half the fans are elementary school dropouts."
Meanwhile, BTS's Mexico City concerts are scheduled for May 7 and 9–10. Earlier, President Sheinbaum said she sent a letter requesting "additional support for the concert" to President Lee Jae-myung, conveyed the view to the production company, and received a reply expressing thanks.