Taiwanese BTS fans are praying to a Taoist deity to help them secure tickets for the group's concerts in Kaohsiung [1].
The phenomenon highlights the extreme lengths of the global "ARMY" fanbase and the intersection of modern pop culture with traditional spiritual practices in Taiwan.
Devotees have gathered at the Longshan Temple in Taipei to seek the favor of Yue Lao, the Taoist god of love [2]. To attract the deity's attention, fans brought offerings specifically themed around the K-pop group. These items included purple-packaged snacks, official BTS merchandise, and detailed wish lists [2], [3].
Some fans went further by presenting the deity with concert seat maps, hoping for a specific placement within the venue [4]. The effort comes as fans struggle to navigate the high demand for the shows scheduled for November 2023 [1], [2].
Ticket presales began in late October 2023, sparking a rush for the limited availability [1], [2]. Because the shows are considered sold-out, many fans feel that divine intervention is their only remaining option to attend the event [2], [3].
Longshan Temple, also known as Bangka Longshan Temple, is a prominent landmark in Taipei where visitors frequently seek guidance on relationships and fate [3], [5]. While Yue Lao is traditionally associated with matchmaking and romantic love, the fans have adapted these prayers to encompass their devotion to the musical group [2], [4].
This blend of digital-age fandom and ancient tradition has drawn attention to the cultural impact of the South Korean group in the region [3], [4].
“Taiwanese BTS fans are praying to a Taoist deity to help them secure tickets”
The trend demonstrates how global fandoms can integrate with local cultural identities. By utilizing a traditional space like Longshan Temple to pursue a modern commercial goal, fans are bridging the gap between ancestral spiritualism and contemporary celebrity worship, illustrating the profound emotional and psychological investment of the BTS ARMY.
