Members of the K-pop supergroup BTS met with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in Mexico City at her official invitation ahead of the group’s scheduled concerts, their agency BigHit Music said on Thursday, May 7.


According to the agency, cited by Korean media, BTS held a roughly 40-minute meeting with Sheinbaum at her office, during which they received a commemorative plaque from the Mexican government. The group was honoured as “distinguished visitors,” with the plaque recognising them for “inspiring Mexican youth through its music and for contributing to community-building based on a culture of respect, em

Following the meeting, BTS appeared alongside the president on a balcony of the National Palace, greeting large crowds gathered in the capital’s central Zócalo. The square was filled with fans, known as ARMY, as well as local residents. According to BigHit Music, around 50,000 people attended the gathering.



Fans were seen holding signs reading “BTS is always in the heart of Mexico” and “Welcome to Mexico,” with some visibly emotional upon seeing the group.


Earlier in the day, Sheinbaum had announced during a regular press briefing that BTS would visit the presidential office and greet the public from one of the palace balconies. She also praised the group’s music, saying it consistently delivers messages of “friendship, peace and love.”


The seven-member group is scheduled to perform at Estadio GNP Seguros on May 7 and May 9–10 as part of its ongoing “Arirang” world tour. All three concerts sold out shortly after tickets became available.


Sheinbaum had previously described the concerts as a “historic moment” when the dates were confirmed in January, noting strong anticipation among young fans across Mexico.


The performances are also expected to generate a significant economic impact. The Mexico City Chamber of Commerce has estimated that the concerts could contribute approximately $107.5 million to the local economy.


Mexico is currently the world’s fifth-largest market for K-pop, with BTS ranking as the most-streamed act among local fans, according to Spotify’s 2025 data.


By Tamilla Hasanova