The Seoul Sports Complex futsal field and sports park hosted the “2024 FESTA” event on June 13, celebrating the anniversary of BTS’ debut. From 11 a.m. onwards, fans were treated to various exhibitions, booths, and a resort-themed photo zone.
Despite the early start, the venue quickly filled up with “ARMYs” from around the world. Unfortunately, as temperatures soared to 32 degrees Celsius, the event’s preparations for heat-related emergencies proved inadequate. Reports indicate that around fifty attendees suffered from heat exhaustion and sought aid at the emergency booth.
An official at the event observed that most of the affected individuals simply laid down for some time and hydrated, but were hesitant to leave the excitement. The staff’s welfare was also noted, with a lengthy duration of work without adequate breaks being highlighted as a concern.
Issues extended to the intense queues, with fans waiting extensive periods to participate in photo opportunities and purchase merchandise, exacerbating the discomfort. One Japanese fan described their three-hour ordeal just to snap a picture with a hot air balloon sculpture as being driven by their love for BTS.
Hundreds of attendees were ardently expressing their love for BTS under the scorching heat, but fan safety measures appeared insufficient. HYBE addressed these concerns to Xsports News, saying, “We have established and implemented operating regulations in consideration of the size of the event and the hot weather. We have complied with the guidelines for heat-related patients. The number of 50 heat-related patients is not true.”
FAQs about the “2024 FESTA” Heat Exhaustion Incident
- What is “2024 FESTA”?
- “2024 FESTA” is an event celebrating the anniversary of the K-pop group BTS’s debut. It includes exhibitions, experience booths, and photo zones for fans.
- How many people were reported to have suffered heat exhaustion at the event?
- Approximately 50 people were reported to have collapsed due to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, according to those present at the event.
- What was the temperature at the “2024 FESTA”?
- The temperature reportedly reached 32 degrees Celsius during the event.
- What measures did HYBE claim to have taken for the event?
- HYBE claimed to have established and implemented operating regulations with consideration of the event’s size and the hot weather conditions, complying with guidelines for heat-related emergencies.
- Did the staff receive adequate breaks during the event?
- An official pointed out that on-site staff were working long hours without rotation, indicating that breaks may have been insufficient.
