South African Ambassador Seeks BTS Stop on World Tour Amid Bilateral Initiatives

Ambassador Mququ aims to bring BTS to South Africa – She told Yonhap she wants BTS on the upcoming Arirang tour, calling it a “big assignment” and appealing for connections to the group, though South Africa is not on the current itinerary [1].

Arirang tour launches April 9, excludes South Africa – BTS’s world tour will start in South Korea and visit 34 cities including Tokyo, Mexico City, Madrid and London, but South Africa is absent from the schedule [1].

Plans to showcase South African artists in Korea for diplomatic anniversary – Mququ announced intentions to invite South African musicians, citing soprano Pretty Yende, as South Korea and South Africa mark 35 years of diplomatic relations [1].

Ambassador seeks increased Korean investment in South Africa’s critical minerals – She highlighted South Africa’s leading production of platinum, manganese and chromium, urging Korean firms to localize operations and create jobs through industrial innovation [1].

South Africa voices concern over U.S. exclusion from G20 summit – Referring to President Trump’s decision to bar South Africa from the 2026 G20 in Florida, Mququ expressed regret but affirmed commitment to G20 principles and noted the U.S. as a strategic partner after China [1].

Mququ stresses realistic engagement with global powers – She acknowledged America’s economic weight, describing South Africa as not naive about its relationship with the U.S., while balancing ties with China and other partners [1].