In an unprecedented diplomatic move, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has formally requested South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to facilitate more frequent visits by K-pop phenomenon BTS. This extraordinary intervention follows the spectacular sell-out of the group’s three scheduled Mexico City performances within minutes of tickets becoming available.
The May concert dates, part of BTS’s highly anticipated global comeback tour, generated unprecedented demand with nearly one million Mexican youth competing for approximately 150,000 available seats. The ticket scarcity prompted President Sheinbaum to personally engage with both the South Korean government and local event promoter Ocesa in attempts to secure additional performances, though organizers confirmed no further dates would be added.
This cultural phenomenon extends beyond music, reflecting Mexico’s deepening fascination with South Korean culture encompassing television dramas, culinary traditions, and entertainment. The government has actively capitalized on this trend, with Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard—a self-professed BTS enthusiast—previously welcoming band member Jin through a viral TikTok video when the concerts were initially announced.
The upcoming tour marks BTS’s return to global stages following their mandatory military service hiatus since 2022, with a new album scheduled for March release preceding their extensive 34-city world tour commencing in April.