The state of Illinois has stepped up to welcome BTS ahead of the group's upcoming concerts in Chicago.
According to local media reports, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has designated the concert dates of July 27-28 (local time) as "BTS Day in Illinois" ahead of the group's world tour 'BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG' IN Chicago' at Soldier Field.
The official proclamation highlights BTS's contributions to spreading social values such as raising awareness for mental health, promoting self-love, and engaging in charitable activities. It also notes that their message aligns with the civic values of Illinois, inspiring fans worldwide to participate in community service and donation efforts.
Since partnering with the Korean Committee for UNICEF in 2017 as the first K-pop artists to do so, BTS has worked to prevent violence against children and youth and provide psychological support across 155 countries and regions through the "LOVE MYSELF" campaign. In 2020, they also supported the live performance industry by donating 1 million dollars to Live Nation's "Crew Nation" campaign.
Illinois anticipates thousands of visitors traveling to Chicago during the concert period, expecting it to boost the local economy and enhance its image as a hub for culture and arts.
This is not the first time local governments have rolled out the red carpet. Toronto, Canada, designated August 22-23 as "BTS Weekend" and temporarily renamed a section of a road to "BTS Boulevard." Maryland Governor Wes Moore released a welcome video featuring Korean subtitles ahead of their Baltimore concert, while 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 to present a plaque of recognition on behalf of the government, and French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife attended their concert at the Stade de France in Paris.
BTS will continue their North American tour at Soldier Field in Chicago on July 27-28. This marks their return to Soldier Field in approximately 7 years and 3 months since their 'BTS WORLD TOUR 'LOVE YOURSELF: SPEAK YOURSELF'' in May 2019.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)