Illinois designates ‘BTS Day’ for upcoming Chicago concerts

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has officially designated August 27 and 28 as ‘BTS Day in Illinois’ to coincide with the K-pop group’s upcoming ‘Arirang’ world tour performances at Chicago’s Soldier Field.

In an official proclamation, Pritzker praised BTS for using their global platform to champion social causes, including mental health awareness, self-love, and philanthropy. The Governor noted that the group’s core values align with the civic values of Illinois and noted their ability to inspire the ‘BTS ARMY’ to engage in community service and charitable giving.

The upcoming shows mark the group’s return to Soldier Field after more than seven years. Similar honors have been issued across North America during the tour, including Toronto designating a ‘BTS Weekend’ and renaming a street ‘BTS Boulevard,’ as well as recognitions in Maryland and El Paso, Texas.