The annual ‘BTS Festa’ in Seoul, attended by fans of K-pop boy band BTS, saw a massive turnout this year. The event coincided with Jin’s discharge from South Korean military service, drawing tens of thousands of fans to the South Korean capital. Organized by HYBE, the band’s agency, last year’s event saw 400,000 fans in attendance, and this year’s event is expected to surpass that number. Jin also participated in a “huggathon” where he gave free hugs to a select group of 1,000 lucky fans.
Fans lined up as early as 7:00 am to get their hands on BTS merchandise and free photo cards of their idols, with lines stretching up to three kilometers around the FESTA venue. BTS has been on a hiatus since 2022, with all seven members consecutively enlisting for military service due to South Korea’s mandatory conscription laws. Jin expressed his desire to hug 3,000 fans, but due to safety concerns, the number was limited to 1,000. Fans from around the world traveled to Seoul for the event, showing their dedication to the band.
One fan, Lisa Pavelchack from Ohio, expressed her pride in Jin for fulfilling his military duty. She had flown to Seoul with friends she met at a BTS concert in the United States to attend the FESTA. Another fan, Ann Suwanan from Thailand, was disappointed that she did not get the chance to hug Jin but expressed her joy at his discharge. Hector Sosa, a father from Mexico, flew to Seoul with his daughter, a devoted ARMY member, as a birthday present. The dedication of fans from different countries demonstrates the global popularity of BTS.
The event highlighted the strong connection between BTS and their fans, known as the ARMY. Fans shared their excitement and emotions as they gathered to celebrate the band’s achievements and support Jin’s return from military service. The FESTA provided an opportunity for fans to come together, connect with like-minded individuals, and show their love for BTS. Despite the challenges of the past year, including the members’ military enlistments, fans remained dedicated and supportive of the band.
The success of the BTS FESTA once again showcased the band’s influence and impact on the global music industry. As one of the biggest boybands in the world, BTS continues to break records and attract a dedicated fan base. The event was a testament to the band’s ability to bring people together from different backgrounds and cultures through their music. BTS’s popularity shows no signs of waning, and fans can look forward to more exciting events and music from the band in the future.
In conclusion, the BTS FESTA in Seoul was a celebration of the band’s success and the unwavering support of their fans. The event brought together fans from around the world to show their love for BTS and celebrate Jin’s return from military service. Despite the challenges and obstacles faced over the past year, BTS and their fans remain united in their passion for music and camaraderie. The event highlighted the global reach of BTS and their ability to connect with fans on a personal level. As BTS continues to dominate the music industry, their fans will undoubtedly remain dedicated and supportive of the band’s journey.
