By Honorary Reporter Lalien Guillen from Philippines

Photos = Lalien Guillen, BTS Instagram

I've attended BTS concerts since 2018, and noticed several customs that Korean fans of the group practice during such events.

Fans charter a bus to go to Seoul to attend the BTS concert on March 12, 2022. 

Fans who live far from the concert venue usually pitch in to rent a bus to take them to and from the event. I joined this arrangement twice, first in 2018 and second this year, from Gumi, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. I admire this system created by and for Korean fans as it shows their levels of mutual trust and solidarity.

First, a fan conducts a survey via social media (usually on Twitter) to gauge interest. If demand is there, he or she collects money and organizes the rental. This is a regular practice among Korean K-pop fans.

This efficient system allows fans to comfortably arrive at the venue and return home right afterwards. Most of the time, it is considerably cheaper than taking public transportation. Some fans even book accommodation if they can't make the last train or bus, but this system helps them save time and money.

Sharing goodies
This gift-giving practice has fans prepare little presents to give to other fans during concerts. The items can be a bag of snacks, photo card set, slogans, stickers or anything easily given out at the venue. This practice creates good feelings and great memories among fans.

I received these gifts from fellow fans during the BTS concert "Permission to Dance on Stage – Seoul" on March 12.

I first experienced this at my first BTS concert in 2018. For the March 12 concert this year in Seoul, I prepared presents to give out. 

Fans refrain from holding light sticks above their heads at the BTS concert in Seoul on March 12.

Concert etiquette

Whenever a BTS concert is around the corner, fans discuss proper etiquette at the venue and even share a list of do's and don't's before the group's management agency releases the official version. For example, those sitting on the floor area should not wear headbands to avoid blocking the view of other spectators and must not raise banners and light sticks above their heads.

At my first BTS concert in 2018, I was amazed at how well-behaved Korean fans were. They remained seated throughout the event and only stood up when asked to. They screamed only at the right moments such as when BTS entered the stage. During last month's Seoul concerts, however, no one was allowed to make noise and the spectators observed this rule. Instead, they used the clappers given to all fans before entering the venue.

Fan events and chants

Fan events are usually organized by the official fan manager of the BTS agency. He or she asks fans for ideas for event banners given during a concert through suggestions for messages or a poll of which is best to use. The banners are kept secret until a signal is given to lift them for BTS members to see. Seeing the group's reactions is always a cute and touching moment.

Fan chants are another fascinating practice I first saw in 2018. Each BTS song has its own chant in which lyrics are repeated by fans at a specific point. Including fans in the performances is impressive, and I later learned that fan chant guides are released on the official BTS fan website and that fans practice them diligently.

kalhong617@korea.kr 

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.