Alleged Theft by Fans at BTS Pop-Up Store Sparks Outrage, Drawing Widespread Attention from ARMYs

 


BTS have just wrapped up their second concert in Lima, with only one final show remaining on October before they continue their tour with three concerts in Santiago, Chile, starting on October 14. Although nearly a week remains before the first show in Santiago, excitement for BTS has already spread throughout Chile. Major fan support events, including banners, large LED screen advertisements at the National Stadium metro station, and LED trucks, are being prepared to welcome the group.

Meanwhile, the "BTS POP-UP: ARIRANG IN SANTIAGO," organized by HYBE, opened on October 2 at Mall Cenco Costanera. The pop-up was designed to allow fans to explore exhibits inspired by ARIRANG concept, featuring albums, photocards, and special displays, while also shopping for official merchandise such as ARMY Bombs, clothing, and accessories.



However, amid all the excitement, a controversy as emerged, leaving the Chilean ARMY community feeling deeply ashamed.

Specifically, an official statement from BTS fanbases in Chile condemning theft and disrespectful behavior at the pop-up store has been circulating on social media.

"We are deeply ashamed of the situation currently unfolding at the BTS Pop-Up store in our country. Chile has recorded the highest number of incidents and attempted thefts at a BTS Pop-Up in Latin America—a reality we find completely unacceptable and one that paints a very sad  picture of our community," the official statement read.



The Chilean fanbases emphasized that the space was created for all fans to enjoy the experience together. However, some visitors had allegedly taken items that did not belong to them, showing disrespect toward both the organizers and other visitors. They urged the community not to normalize such behavior, reminding everyone that love for BTS just always go hand in hand with respect, honesty, and responsibility.

Many locals fans have also come forward to corroborate reports of ARMY Bombs and merchandise being stolen. This is reportedly why store staff have asked customers not to bring bags inside.

One fan even shared photos showing that photocards displayed in the exhibition area were being taken, despite being intended for everyone to enjoy and admire. Another fan reported that someone had attempted to take an exhibit item and was reprimanded by security staff. A poster of J-Hope was also reportedly among the stole items.




With many merchandise items at the pop-up carrying hefty price tags—for example, sushi chopsticks reportedly costing around 50,000 CLP (approximately US$51.18) and an outfit priced at up to 276,000 CLP (approximately US$283)—local fans are concerned that further incidents may occur. They also worry that if items continue to go missing, the organizers may have no choice but to remove not only the photocards but also the albums and other objects on display, ultimately affecting the experience for all visitors.

Above all, Chilean fans have emphasized that these individual acts could damage the reputation of the ARMY community just before BTS arrive in the country for their concerts. For them, protecting the pop-up space is not just about respecting the organizers' efforts but also showing love and support for their idols.

The incident has now attracted attention from the international fan community, sparking discussions and reactions across social media


ARMYs' Reactions:

● Those wild animals... BTS haven't even arrived in their country yet, and they're already behaving so uncivilized

● You're not entitled to take anything that doesn't belong to you. Stop ruining this experience for everyone!

● Stealing merchandise and exhibition items is NOT okay. Just because something is on display doesn't mean you can take it home. Have some respect!

● The shame this part of the continent is making me feel is on another level. At least let Argentina and Brazil be the exceptions, PLEASE!

● The initial goal was for all of us to enjoy the pop-up and preserve the full experience for everyone. Please protect the exhibition and respect the shared space.

● My heart breaks for he kind and respectful Chilean ARMYs who have had to deal with this kind of behavior.

● The problems have already started, and the guys haven't even arrived in Chile yet.

● This is absolutely disgusting. How can you call yourself an ARMY and still disrespect BTS and the people who worked so hard to make this experience possible?

● Because of  few selfish people, everyone else might lose the chance to enjoy the exhibition properly. This is so frustrating.

● How did security let tings get this bad? Wasn't the place being guarded? Shouldn't there have been security guards on-site? Yes, I understand that the number of guards probably couldn't match the sheer of number of people causing trouble. Still, I hope the incident is thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are caught.
















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