Authorities in Seoul are rolling out extensive security and traffic measures as more than 200,000 fans are expected to gather for the comeback concert of BTS on March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square.
The event marks the largest cultural crowd in the area since the 2002 FIFA World Cup and 2006 FIFA World Cup celebrations.
Entry and access
The Gwanghwamun area will be fenced off, with 31 designated entry and exit gates set up to manage the crowd. Access to the viewing zone—from Gwanghwamun to Seoul City Hall—will be restricted to these controlled points along nearby roads like Sejong-daero.
Heightened security
Strict screening measures will be enforced, including:
- Metal detectors at all प्रवेश gates
- Bag inspections starting 7 a.m. on March 21
- Deployment of police teams monitoring CCTV systems
Authorities are advising attendees to bring minimal belongings. Barricades and police buses will also be positioned to guard against potential vehicle attacks, while nearly 2,400 portable toilets will be installed across the venue.
Crowd control measures
Police will monitor crowd density in real time and may limit entry if capacity is reached. Buildings around the viewing area will be closed to prevent rooftop access and reduce safety risks.
Road closures
Major roads around Gwanghwamun—including Sejong-daero, Sajik-ro, Yulgok-ro, Saemunan-ro and Jongno—will be closed in phases.
- A key stretch of Sejong-daero will be shut from 9 p.m. (March 20) to 6 a.m. (March 22)
- Additional closures will occur on the concert day, particularly in the late afternoon and evening
After the concert
To ease congestion, authorities will release crowds in stages toward subway stations such as Euljiro 1-ga Station, Jonggak Station, and Anguk Station.
Trains may skip stops if stations become overcrowded. Police will also be deployed in nearby nightlife areas like Itaewon, Hongdae and Seongsu-dong in anticipation of post-concert gatherings.
Officials are urging attendees to follow safety guidelines and allow extra travel time as the city prepares for one of its largest public events in years.
