Nearly four years ago, Sokvin Vann found herself stuck in a routine in her life. Encouraged by her brother, she delved into her passion for K-pop and BTS, a globally renowned boy band. Vann heeded her brother’s advice and established BTS Army Toronto, a local fan club that organizes gatherings and events to unite fans of the South Korean band.
Following the inception of BTS Army Toronto, Vann faced the loss of her brother. Despite her sorrow, the 43-year-old persevered and developed the organization into a bustling community that arranges fan-centric activities, charity events, and advocates for local Korean enterprises.
The fan club is now preparing for BTS’s highly awaited return to Toronto after more than a decade. Vann, along with her 24-year-old son Jordan Vann and a dedicated team of around 10 individuals, co-manages BTS Army Toronto.
The Arirang World Tour by BTS includes sold-out performances at Rogers Stadium on Saturday and Sunday. The K-pop sensation, recognized for hit tracks like “Swim,” “Permission to Dance,” and “Butter,” is set to entertain approximately 100,000 fans over two evenings.
In a symbolic gesture, the City of Toronto revealed BTS Boulevard on Yonge Street from North York Boulevard to Finch Avenue, reflecting the tour’s red-themed branding. BTS Boulevard is scheduled to stay until September 23, as declared by the city.
Moreover, the city has declared Saturday and Sunday as BTS Weekend in Toronto, illuminating the Toronto sign at Nathan Phillips Square in purple, the signature color associated with BTS and its followers.
Known for their fervent devotion, BTS fans possess extensive knowledge of the band’s history, members, and music catalog. They use terms like “army” or “bias” to describe their favorite BTS member.
Vann attributes fans’ loyalty to BTS’s meaningful music, addressing themes like mental health, self-love, and personal growth. The group’s hiatus since 2022 was due to mandatory military service for all seven members in South Korea.
As the only Canadian stop on their global tour, BTS’s outdoor performance in north Toronto marks a significant milestone. Since their debut in 2013, BTS has evolved into international sensations, with notable achievements like their chart-topping English track “Dynamite” in 2020.
Vann, who has attended BTS concerts in the U.S., expresses excitement at witnessing her beloved band perform in Toronto, especially after the canceled 2020 concerts. Toronto fans like Aira Uy eagerly anticipate the long-awaited show, with the city embracing BTS’s visit through symbolic gestures and events.
In anticipation of the concerts, fans flock to the official BTS merchandise store, showcasing their enthusiasm for the upcoming performances. The concert experiences are set to be unforgettable, with BTS fans eagerly awaiting surprises and special moments during the shows.
Vann, optimistic about the concert’s impact, anticipates a sense of connection and gratitude within the BTS community following the event.