BTS gave Peruvian ARMYs a moment to remember when the K-pop superstars appeared in traditional attire during their concert in Lima. Pictures and videos of the members wearing colourful ponchos and chullo hats quickly caught fans' attention, with many celebrating the outfits as a beautiful nod to their country's cultural heritage.
For some fans, the moment meant more than seeing their favourite idols in adorable outfits. By wearing traditional clothing linked to Peru's Andean communities, BTS helped bring their culture and heritage to a global audience.
BTS Embraces Traditional Peruvian Clothing
BTS members wore Peruvian ponchos and chullos during the closing part of their Lima concert on 10 October. The performance at Estadio San Marcos was part of the group's ARIRANG world tour, which brought thousands of fans together in the Peruvian capital.
RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook brought a local touch to their concert wardrobe with colourful traditional-inspired garments and hats. Their appearance delighted fans, who were thrilled to see the group embrace clothing associated with Peru instead of simply wearing merchandise bearing the country's name.
The moment became even more special when V reportedly removed his chuyo and gave it to a fan. For those watching, the gesture added another memorable highlight to a concert already filled with excitement and emotional moments.
K-Pop Group Sparks Tears and Cultural Pride
Peruvian ARMYs quickly shared their feelings online, with some saying they were moved to tears by the group's outfit choices. One fan wrote: 'Do you realise how fortunate we are?? They're wearing our Peruvian ponchos and chullos, our culture is being seen by THE WHOLE WORLD.'
Another fan explained why the clothing meant so much, writing: 'I'm crying hard, this is so much more than wearing a Peru t-shirt. Only Peruvians know what it means to wear a poncho, a chullo, an alpaca hat.' The fan added, 'THIS IS OUR CULTURE. THIS IS PERU,' capturing the pride many felt about seeing their traditions recognised.
Others expressed gratitude, pointing out that Andean culture still faces racism and class discrimination in Peru. One fan added: '[While] There are influencers who say that the colors of the highlands 'ruin their feeds,' here comes BTS... and they put on ponchos and chullos with pride and happiness. They gave us a masterclass.'
BTS sorprendió al ARMY al lucir ponchos tradicionales peruanos durante su último concierto en Lima, conquistando el corazón de sus fans. 🤩¿Qué opinas? 🇵🇪
— EstiloDF (@EstiloDF) October 11, 2026
Video por: lu.cdulanto pic.twitter.com/7FjnHfc9k7
Cultural Roots of Ponchos and Chullos
Ponchos and chuyos are traditional garments worn in Peru and other Andean countries, combining practical uses with cultural significance. Their patterns, materials and weaving techniques vary between communities, reflecting local customs and heritage.
A poncho is a loose garment with an opening for the head that drapes over the body to provide warmth in cold weather. Traditional versions often feature colourful woven patterns, with designs differing according to regional styles.
A chullo, also spelled chuyo, is a knitted hat with ear flaps and sometimes tassels. Often made from wool, including alpaca wool, it helps protect the wearer from the cold temperatures of the Andean highlands.
Both garments are linked to Indigenous textile traditions that artisans continue to preserve today. Their appearance at the BTS concert offered fans a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural heritage behind these distinctive pieces of clothing.
