BTS drew around 151,500 fans across three sold-out shows in Lima, marking their first-ever visit to Peru, and local economists estimate the concerts generated up to 78 billion won in economic activity for the country.
According to Star News, the group staged ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’ IN LIMA’ at Estadio San Marcos on October 7, 9, and 10 (local time). The tour stop was originally planned as two shows, but a third date was added after the initial concerts sparked an overwhelming response, and that show sold out as well.
The packed stadium welcomed the group with loud cheers and mass sing-alongs, and the members returned the energy in kind. They spoke to the crowd in Spanish, saying “Los amo,” and added, “Your energy is incredible. It makes us wonder why we only came to Peru now.”
Jimin, who celebrates his birthday on October 13, drew an especially loud response when he said, “I will never forget that you are loving us so much from the other side of the world.”
The visit also gave Lima’s local economy a major boost. Peru’s Ministry of Tourism (MINCETUR) projected more than 50,000 visitors to Lima and around $18.7 million (approximately 25.1 billion won) in tourism economic effects. The Lima Chamber of Commerce estimated up to 200 million soles (about 78 billion won) in total economic activity, with spending spread across tickets, accommodation, food and beverage, transportation, tourism, and merchandise.
Local newspaper El Comercio, citing ride-hailing service Cabify, reported that ride requests heading to the stadium on October 7 reached up to 15 times the normal level, and surged to as much as 48 times after the concert ended.
BTS will continue their South American tour in Santiago, Chile on October 14, 16, and 17, followed by stops in La Plata, Argentina and São Paulo, Brazil.
