BTS Chile Concert NOT Cancelled - Sports Minister Explains National Stadium Was Never Approved; ARMY Protests Intensify

The uncertainty surrounding BTS' upcoming concerts in Chile has taken yet another turn after Chile's Minister of Sports, Natalia Duco, addressed the controversy over the proposed venue for the group's October performances. Duco responded to the mounting criticism from fans, saying the concerts had never been officially cancelled as the required authorisation to hold them at the National Stadium had not yet been granted. BTS is scheduled to hold large-scale concerts at the venue on October 14, 16 and 17. Ticket sales opened months ago and apparently sold out almost immediately, but the authorities claimed the stadium rental agreement had yet to be finalised.On July 4, Natalia Duco explained the government's position by saying, "It was not cancelled,

nor was an authorisation revoked, because that authorisation never existed." The announcement follows reports that concerns about the stage design and possible damage to the stadium's playing surface had cast doubt on the scheduled venue.

Government cites technical reasons

Duco said the production company began selling tickets before the Ministry of Sports had finished the inspection process or signed off on the proposed concert setup.The 360-degree stage design presented technical challenges because of its size and weight, which is said to be more than 60 tons, she said. Authorities worry the construction of such a building would badly damage the stadium's turf, which is also used for football games and other national sporting events.The ministry also hopes to keep the venue in good condition for future shows.

Other options discussed

Duco said that authorities are still trying to find a solution and not stop the BTS concerts from taking place, even with the dispute continuing. Alternatives considered include changing the stage configuration to eliminate the 360-degree design or moving the production to a different part of the stadium, keeping much of the infrastructure as planned.Officials say they are still in ongoing discussions with the concert promoter in an effort to make sure the performances can still go on.

Ticket sales questioned by fans

The minister's comments have sparked new online debate, with many fans venting their anger at the event promoter. Some wondered how tickets had been sold months ago without the final approval process being completed. Others said they were disappointed that the venue was in limbo after thousands had already bought tickets to the sold-out concerts.The government's handling of the process also drew criticism from a number of social media users, who said that clearer communication should have been provided much earlier.

October concerts still on schedule

The National Stadium issue is still unresolved, but authorities have not said the BTS concerts in October have been cancelled. The government and the promoter are in discussions to see if the original venue can be adapted or if another solution will have to be found before the performances can go ahead.Fans will have to wait for an official update from the organisers on the final venue arrangements for the highly anticipated Chile shows for now.