On Saturday, one of the biggest music groups in the world performs the first of three nights at Stanford. Excitement has been building in the Bay Area for the return of BTS. We caught up with a few fans in the long line for merch.
Friday, May 15, 2026 10:29PMOn Saturday, one of the biggest music groups in the world performs the first of three nights at Stanford. There was a long line outside Oakland Arena the first time the K-pop band performed in the Bay Area back in 2018.
Lines were long, once again, for fans on Friday who were trying to get their hands on limited-edition merchandise. We talked with people in line and found those who waited up all night for things to open up.
"We drove yesterday morning from L.A. Came straight here. Checked everything out. got something to eat. And came back," said Marta Lopez from Los Angeles.
"We planned this. We were here last Sunday. We scoped everything out. We saw the tents.
So, we knew exactly where things were. We did some research," said Mario Lopez. And they brought money to spend, including hotel and travel expenses. The two expect to spend around $4,000 for the whole concert experience.
"I think we are going to be about $1,500," Mario Lopez said about how much they were going to spend on merchandise. Three loops around the track made up the line. Hundreds were hoping to at least get something, but were also trying to enjoy the experience.
"Everyone is BTS ARMY. A couple of freebies being passed out. And these are just fans making stuff at home and passing out to everybody who is here in line," said Kristy Balancio from Union City. That doesn't mean these fans aren't competitive.
Most were line for one thing that they can only get here -- which may run out. The jerseys are specific to each location. And fans can get their favorite band member's name on the back.
"I like RM... Honestly, his message. And he is so caring to the fans. He is so relatable.
He likes the outdoors. I do too. And he is overall such a good experience. "
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