BTS to Hold Free Comeback Concert at Gwanghwamun Plaza

BTS will hold a free comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Plaza in Seoul on March 21. The performance is organized to celebrate the release of BTS's fifth studio album 'ARIRANG' and will run for one hour. According to their agency HYBE, the concert will be broadcast live to 190 countries worldwide via Netflix.

With up to 260,000 people expected to attend, Seoul Metropolitan Government and police are activating large-scale safety measures. Police will deploy over 6,500 personnel and restrict access to 31 buildings surrounding the plaza.

31 Buildings: Entrance Closures and Rooftop Access Control

Seoul Metropolitan Government and police held a meeting on the 13th with six buildings near Gwanghwamun Plaza, requesting that main entrances be closed on the day of the concert with only back entrances open. This measure aims to prevent audiences from entering through building rear entrances and then accessing the concert venue through front entrances.

However, the Press Center cannot be completely closed due to a scheduled wedding that day, so additional security screening using portable metal detectors will be conducted.

For the remaining 25 buildings, restrictions on access to upper floors including rooftops have been requested. This is a preventive measure against potential safety accidents that could occur when fans without tickets attempt to watch the performance from rooftops or balconies. However, since rooftops must serve as emergency evacuation routes under fire safety laws and cannot be completely closed, Seoul Metropolitan Government is checking whether each building has automatic emergency doors installed and coordinating management plans for each building.

33-Hour Road Closure and Enhanced Security Measures

Sejong-daero will be completely closed to vehicle traffic for 33 hours. Police will deploy over 6,500 personnel from traffic, criminal investigation, crime prevention, and special forces units, with approximately 70 riot police units also mobilized. About 5,400 pieces of equipment including high-altitude observation vehicles, broadcast lighting trucks, and folding fences will also be deployed.

Security measures to prevent terrorism will also be strengthened. Metal detector searches will be conducted at 31 entry points for plaza access.

Return of K-POP's Representative Group, Global Fandom Excitement

BTS returns to the domestic stage after a long absence through this performance. With simultaneous live broadcasts to 190 countries worldwide announced, intense interest from the global fandom is expected both on-site and online.

The Gwanghwamun area is expected to experience significant traffic congestion before and after the concert, and Seoul Metropolitan Government is recommending the use of public transportation.