Concert Etiquette: Let’s Talk About It!

Ask any fan with a modicum of ARMY nouse and they’ll tell you there are two things that BTS lives for. The first is to create and perform music that moves the hearts and minds of their listeners and the second is their fandom, ARMY. Put those two X factors together in a stadium – accompanied by the latest LED technology, pyrotechnics, surround sound, multiple costume changes, and moving carts – and you have the perfect recipe for an amazing concert experience. Don’t be surprised, though, if your reality supersedes all expectations.

By the time it’s over and you’re heading back to your accommodations, the euphoria of the moment may slowly start to dissipate, but BTS’ smiling faces, their impactful music, and the magnitude of knowing that you’ve just experienced something life-changing will be stuck on repeat for days, weeks, and months to come. For some, post-concert blues may set in, but don’t be too alarmed. There are a multitude of ways to cherish yourself through the waves of nostalgia that may overwhelm you from time to time.

What we’ve just described is a ‘typical’ concert experience for ARMYs; nothing is exaggerated. Certainly, concert experiences may differ from venue to venue, but often those disparities are caused by compromised venue infrastructures, not because of anything BTS or ARMY related. Recently though, tensions arose – seemingly caused by overzealous fans, caught up in the frenzy of trying to connect more intimately with the BTS members.

While the fans at the center of these tensions may think otherwise, concerns from the first two days of BTS’ Las Vegas concerts were raised, admonishing an apparent lack of concert etiquette by a small subsection of fans. We say small because with an estimated 50,000 fans attending on any given night, those responsible are a minority. Yet, their actions and behaviors were serious enough to taint the concert experience for many.

Safety First, Safety Second, Coolness Third

For the first time at a US-based concert, BTS introduced open-air mobile vehicles into their show’s production. More commonly referred to as moving carts, these vehicles allow the members to get closer to the fans while performing their setlist, albeit in a tightly managed and somewhat protected space. However, some fans took to rushing the aisles and barricades in order to get as close as possible to their beloved idols. In doing so they inadvertently placed other concert attendees at risk, especially in the ADA designated seating areas.

In addition to this, items ranging from plushies to artificial flowers were thrown into the carts as they passed by, perhaps as tokens of affection from fans who hoped that these items would make it into the hands (and hearts) of the BTS members. At one point though, concert fancams showed SUGA masterfully ducking and diving to avoid being hit, while a quick scan of the carts and the ground beneath them revealed an unhealthy splattering of items. What made this behavior even more disconcerting, though, is the fact that Jin is still recovering from surgery to his hand, which heightened fears for his health and safety. ARMYs took to social media to denounce those behaviors and called on Allegiant stadium officials and HYBE to take immediate action.

Fortunately, by Day 3 of the concert, safety measures had improved. Allegiant stadium updated their safety warning (as seen below), a reminder was posted on the concert screen, there was a stronger security presence in the most affected aisles, and RM shared a few words as well. Fans were quick to express their gratitude for the upgrades, but also remorse for the issues that occurred in the first place.

Look Good, Feel Good!

For thousands of fans, the opportunity to see BTS perform live was a phenomenal moment. To celebrate, fans also wanted to look and feel phenomenal as well. Yet somehow, this too became an issue for some who felt the need to criticize another person’s clothing choices or creative inspiration. As an onlooker though, it was heartwarming to see ARMYs rally to encourage each other, share selfies, and celebrate their awesomeness.

Let’s Do It Right!

In a concert environment, unnecessary behaviors can leave a long-lasting and unfavorable impression on those most impacted. Concert etiquette exists for a reason, and for the most part, the majority of fans attending the most recent concerts in Las Vegas had an amazing experience. As we wait patiently for the next ‘era’ to begin, let’s continue to prioritize the well-being of the BTS members and respect measures put in place to keep all concert-goers happy and healthy.

There is a special relationship that exists between artists, such as BTS, and their fandom, the ARMY. As RM has mentioned many times, the concert space is one of celebration and communion for all. This is why care and consideration towards one another is even more important. So, let’s continue to make memories that we can treasure for a lifetime. Everyone is present for the same reason — to enjoy their long-awaited moment with BTS.

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Written By: Mama

Edited By: Juju

Checked By: Aury