Fans of the South Korean group BTS launched an online petition with over 13,000 signatures requesting seats in the standing pit area for the shows in São Paulo in October 2026, to enhance safety and prevent overcrowding. The initiative divides opinions among ARMYs, with arguments about comfort and health risks amid heat waves. Producer Live Nation has not yet responded.
BTS announced their return to the stage with three shows in São Paulo on October 28, 30, and 31, 2026, after a hiatus due to mandatory military service in South Korea. The performances, with the venue yet to be confirmed but linked to Morumbi Stadium by the fan petition, mark the comeback of the boyband that globalized K-pop. The tour will feature tracks from their new album, set for release in March 2026, containing 14 songs.
On January 14, 2026, fans known as ARMYs started an online petition that gathered over 13,000 signatures requesting that the producer install seats in the stadium's grass area, replacing the traditional standing pit. "Our goal is not to turn the pit into a seated viewing section, but to ensure minimum safety, comfort, and organization for the thousands of fans who will attend the shows," states the petition text. The practice is common in South Korea, the United States, and Europe, aiming to prevent overcrowding, poor visibility, and health risks from frequent heat waves in Brazil.
Recent incidents bolster the concerns: in 2023, during Taylor Swift's show in Rio de Janeiro, fan Ana Clara Benevides, 23, died from heat exhaustion due to intense heat. In São Paulo, at The Town festival, Don Oliver's performance was paused for 20 minutes due to crowd pressure against barriers.
However, the petition sparked controversy. Some fans criticized the idea: "Guys, I don't want to be rude, but I think it's a total waste of time. Instead of petitioning to lower prices, you want seats in the pit. THAT DOESN'T WORK IN BRAZIL," one commented. Another noted: "Our fandom has huge demand; a show with seats in the pit means FEWER TICKETS AVAILABLE." Metropoles contacted Live Nation but received no response yet.
