According to an analysis of card payment data from Hana Card during BTS’s concerts in Goyang, the number of foreign ticket buyers using cards reached approximately 30,000. Based on this conservative estimate, the total consumer spending generated across all sectors exceeded 55.5 billion won.

During the concert week (April 6 to April 12), the number of card transactions by foreign visitors in commercial areas near Goyang Stadium surged by 807% compared to the previous week, while total spending also rose sharply by 231%. In just three days, the concerts became a powerful economic driver, attracting tens of billions of won in foreign currency within a short period.

Similarly, according to data from Baedal Minjok (Baemin), the number of foreign users utilizing delivery apps in кσяєα increased significantly in mid-month, coinciding with BTS’s concerts in Goyang. Specifically, in Goyang City, orders from foreign customers rose by more than 180%. Notably, in Ilsanseo-gu—the district where Goyang Stadium is located—this figure recorded a dramatic spike of over 320%. A Baemin representative also stated: “BTS’s concerts act as a catalyst driving a surge in foreign users.”

From promoting culture and elevating national image to contributing significantly to GDP and acting as a key driver of economic growth—these achievements still do not fully capture everything BTS has done for their country. A recent revelation by former head of the National Intelligence Service Park Ji-won proved even more ѕнσ¢кing, claiming that South кσяєα has even used “BTS” in international military negotiations.

Specifically, on the 24th, amid кσяєαn media discussions surrounding relations between the U.S. and HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk in connection with a recent fraud investigation, a notable detail emerged: "Rep. Park disclosed that during his tenure as the Head of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), he personally utilized BTS’s concert scheduling as "leverage" during defense contract negotiations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE)"

As this revelation spread widely, it sparked significant surprise and reactions among fans. One fan commented: “So, was that the reason for that concert in the UAE a few years ago? The boys were treated like royalty—they even had a luxury vehicle to transport each of them. It all makes sense now,” referring to the group’s 2019 concert as part of the Love Yourself: Speak Yourself tour at King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh.

Meanwhile, another fan expressed: “Truth is, BTS are no longer just a music group. They’ve become a soft power tool. And wherever there’s power, politics is never far behind.”

In fact, over the past decade, the Seoul government has consistently utilized BTS in diplomatic contexts, particularly under President Moon Jae-in. The group attended the UN General Assembly twice during his administration.

Former President Moon ever shared his experience that diplomatic activities have become smoother because conversations often begin with BTS when meeting foreign leaders. He stated: “When foreign leaders meet for summits, they usually bring topics that the other party would like to soften the atmosphere, and I always hear about K-pop. Most of the time, it’s about BTS.” He even hinted: “One leader requested BTS to accompany them on a state visit.”

Nevertheless, a recurring source of frustration among ARMYs is that BTS has not received the recognition they deserve despite everything they have contributed to their country—and may even be exploited by the government. One fan angrily remarked: “So BTS is good when it’s about securing deals or doing diplomacy, but closing a museum for a day and a half is suddenly an ABSURD ‘disruption of people’s lives’ and tax money? Fck SK!”

Other fans also shared their views:

- SK is out here using BTS and their name, but can’t come out and say how financially beneficial their impact is on the country or even shut down the media

- Are they stupid to use BTS as leverage for soмєтнing as a d3f3nce contract which is related to countries s3curity... are they serious they think other country officials are like them... using artists for such critical matter, aaah

- It's all make sense now. SK Gov can't manipulate Bang PD & BTS anymore they wanted use them again for a Political leverage they all Turn it down..Thanks God they are all finishes their MS they can't hold their head anymore God Job BTS. 

- Their sick greed of money, won't solve their inhumane actions which is globally acknowledge. I'm speechless

- I said before…this feels targeted. Everyone has their hand out with expectations and they are using Bang and BTS as bargaining chips and virtual political hostages.

- I would like to see an agreement in which politicians are prohibited to use the name BTS in their national and international events and negotiations. lets see who would end up losing

- I know their government is using them one way or another but I didn't realize it was this serious. They don't deserve BTS at all!!!

- Using them as political pawns for military negotiations is WILD!!! I'm so pissed actually