On Tuesday, September 9th, we experienced the excitement and unity of ARMY with the long-awaited launch of the collaboration between McDonald's and TinyTan (the characters inspired by BTS) at the San Mateo branch in David, Chiriquí. Weeks before, McDonald's officially announced the list of countries where this special collaboration would be available, and we were delighted to learn that Panama was included. As part of Army Chiriquí, I had the opportunity to organize and participate in this special celebration, where dozens of fans gathered to enjoy this moment together.
This collaboration consists of two special editions: the Throwback Edition, which was released on September 3rd, features the TinyTan characters wearing outfits from the first collaboration with McDonald's (BTS Meal), evoking the nostalgia of the previous campaign. On the other hand, the Encore Edition, available since September 23rd, offers new figures with different outfits, including designs inspired by the "Mic Drop" concept and the McDonald's logo, giving fans a fresh and exciting experience. However, both versions were launched on the same day here in Panama.
Worldwide, Happy Meals with TinyTan figures were randomly distributed, so when purchasing multiple boxes, you sometimes received multiple figures of the same character, which could be frustrating. We were afraid something similar would happen during the event, but thanks to the support of the McDonald's San Mateo staff, we were able to allow everyone to choose the box of the BTS member they wanted, making the experience even more special.
The restaurant staff was incredibly friendly. Upon entering, customers were welcomed to the table we decorated with banners and two life-size cardboard cutouts. The staff gave us a space within the restaurant to decorate with a BTS theme; and we were able to set the mood with music in the special area where we held the gathering. This gave the event an intimate and cozy feel, as if we were at a small party with people who share the same love for BTS.
The energy was contagious; many people arrived excited, ready to receive their Happy Meal and discover which TinyTan figurine they had received. Seeing so many happy attendees, some ARMYs even holding their lightsticks, was a reminder of how music can connect people of all ages.
During the afternoon, we also held games, trivia, and activities with small gifts we brought to share. These activities not only made the afternoon more fun, but also allowed people who didn't know each other to interact and bond over their love for BTS. Every smile, every clap, and every shout of excitement was proof of how powerful this community is.
As one of the administrators of Army Chiriquí, we always look for spaces like this to share with more ARMYs from the province. We organize regular activities where we can celebrate anniversaries, releases, or simply have a good time with those of us who understand what BTS means to our lives. This event was undoubtedly a beautiful example of what we can achieve when there is passion, organization, and a united community.
The most beautiful thing about all of this is how, through events like this, we can see how Korean culture has become a part of our lives. What began as a love for BTS's music has transformed into a deeper interest in their language, their food, their values, and their way of seeing the world. Seeing people of different ages gathered around a Happy Meal featuring TinyTan characters not only speaks to BTS's global reach, but also to the power of art to cross borders. These kinds of gatherings allow us to continue learning, sharing, and celebrating a culture that, even though it comes from the other side of the world, we feel increasingly closer to.
Thank you to everyone who attended and to those who helped us make this day one to remember!
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