50 ARMYs Collapsed Due To Heat Exhaustion At BTS’ “2024 FESTA”+HYBE’s Explanation

To celebrate BTS’s debut day on June 13, a special event called “2024 FESTA”took place at Seoul Sports Complex’s futsal field and sports park. Starting at 11 a.m., the event featured a range of exhibitions, interactive booths, and a main photo zone designed with a resort theme.

Despite the early hours, the venue was filled with a multitude of individuals. Notably, fans of BTS, known as “ARMY,”came from all corners of the globe to partake in the festivities and create lasting memories. Unfortunately, the event lacked proper preparation for heat-related illnesses as the hot weather, with temperatures reaching a high of 32 degrees Celsius, drew a large crowd.

According to eyewitnesses at the event, approximately 50 individuals experienced heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and sought refuge in the emergency booth. An official stated that all patients who visited the booth rested and took necessary measures, such as drinking water. Although the official advised them to return home, it seemed difficult for them to do so. He also highlighted the lack of consideration for on-site staff, who work long hours without rotation at the event that runs until 9 p.m. This physical exhaustion is a cause for concern.

Furthermore, there was also a disregard for the fans who had been waiting in line for hours to take photos in the designated photo zone and to purchase merchandise at the “ARMY ZONE.”Similarly, at the “FESTA ZONE”which featured a hot air balloon-shaped structure, attendees were forced to endure prolonged exposure to the sun without any protection while waiting in line.

A senior Japanese fan explained, “I patiently waited for three hours to capture a photo of a hot air balloon sculpture.”When questioned about how she was able to endure the heat and long wait, her simple response was “BTS.”

Despite the overwhelming enthusiasm of countless BTS fans who attended “2024 FESTA” with nothing but love, it was evident that the organizers may have lacked consideration for the well-being of the attendees. According to HYBE’s statement to Xsports News, they had taken into account the event’s scale and the hot weather by implementing operating regulations and following guidelines for heat-related medical cases. However, they deny the reported number of 50 heat-related patients.