The U.S. state of Illinois has rolled out a regional welcome ahead of BTS's concert in Chicago.
According to local media reports, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has designated the concert dates as "BTS Day in Illinois," ahead of the group's world tour "BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG' IN Chicago" scheduled to be held at Soldier Field in Chicago on August 27–28 (local time).
The official proclamation highlighted BTS's contributions to spreading social values, such as raising awareness for mental health, self-love, and philanthropic activities. It also included assessments that their message aligns with the civic values of Illinois and inspires fans worldwide to participate in community service and donation activities.
In 2017, BTS became the first K-pop artist to partner with the Korean Committee for UNICEF, working to prevent violence and provide psychological support for children and adolescents in 155 countries and regions through the "LOVE MYSELF" campaign. In 2020, they also supported the concert industry by donating $1 million to Live Nation's "Crew Nation" campaign.
Illinois expects thousands of visitors to flock to Chicago during the concert period, anticipating a boost to the local economy as well as enhanced prestige as a cultural and artistic hub.
This is not the first time local governments have rolled out such a welcome. Toronto, Canada, designated August 22–23 as "BTS Weekend" and temporarily renamed a section of a road "BTS Boulevard." Maryland Governor Wes Moore released a welcome video featuring Korean subtitles ahead of the Baltimore concert, and El Paso County, Texas, proclaimed the concert period as "El Paso BTS Weekend" and presented them with the "Estimado Amigo" award.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum met with BTS in person and presented them with a government commemorative plaque, while French President Emmanuel Macron and the First Lady directly attended their concert at the Stade de France in Paris.
BTS will continue their North American tour at Soldier Field in Chicago on August 27–28. This marks their return to Soldier Field in about 7 years and 3 months since May 2019 during the "BTS WORLD TOUR 'LOVE YOURSELF: SPEAK YOURSELF'."
(Photo courtesy of SBS Entertainment News, Reported by Kang Kyung-yoon)
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