Chilean government officials are reportedly reconsidering their decision to block three sold-out BTS stadium concerts in Santiago, scheduled for October. The initial refusal by the Ministry of Sports sparked widespread protests from hundreds of fans and drew criticism from politicians, casting doubt over the K-pop group's highly anticipated performances.
The South Korean septet, comprising RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook, are due to perform at Santiago's Estadio Nacional on 14, 16, and 17 October as part of their 'Arirang' world tour. These concerts mark their return to the global stage following a hiatus since 2022 and the completion of the members' mandatory military service. Tickets for all three dates, expected to draw approximately 48,000 fans per show, sold out rapidly after going on sale in April.
The controversy began last week when the National Sports Institute, operating under the Ministry of Sports, declined to authorise the use of the Estadio Nacional’s central field. This decision followed a “thorough technical and operational evaluation” which concluded that the planned 360-degree stage would exert prolonged pressure on the hybrid grass pitch. The Institute stated that this would leave insufficient time for the pitch to recover before a packed calendar of sporting and civic events, including an official men’s national football match in November, professional league fixtures, and the 2026 Telethon.
Sports Minister Natalia Duco defended the initial stance, asserting that the concerts had never received formal approval despite tickets already being sold. Speaking to Chile's 24 Horas programme, Minister Duco highlighted a growing trend of production companies selling tickets before securing official authorisation, leaving fans to 'pay the price' for purchasing tickets to unapproved venues. Deputy Interior Minister Claudio Alvarado echoed these sentiments, describing the decision as 'technical' and emphasising the potential for costly damage to the playing field.
However, the Ministry of Sports announced on Monday, 7 July 2026, that it was prepared to reconsider its position after promoter DG Medios submitted a revised technical proposal addressing the concerns over the stadium’s playing surface. The National Sports Institute had previously offered alternative open-air sites within the stadium complex, such as the South Esplanade or Parque Sur, capable of hosting large events without utilising the main pitch, though these alternatives may not suit the planned 360-degree stage production.