[Culture&] BTS Gwanghwamun Draws 260,000 Crowd… Blocking 'Sneaky Viewing' and Controlling 31 Buildings

260,000 Gather for BTS Full Group Comeback… Blocking 'Sneaky Viewing' from 31 Buildings

Ahead of the full group comeback performance of BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) on the 21st at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, an unprecedented urban control operation is being implemented. With a maximum crowd density of 260,000 expected, the police and the city of Seoul have designated 31 buildings around the event site for intensive management. This measure aims to completely block so-called 'sneaky viewing' by circumventing building entrances or watching the performance from rooftops. The entrances of these buildings will be closed, with only the rear entrances open, and access to upper floors and rooftops will be strictly controlled. Visitors to the press center with unavoidable schedules, such as weddings, will have to undergo additional screening through handheld scanners.

6,500 Police Deployed & Metal Detectors Installed… Unprecedented Anti-Terror Safety Operation

On the day of the event, a large-scale police force of over 6,500, including about 70 mobile units and special police forces, will be deployed on-site. A massive safety operation will utilize over 5,400 pieces of equipment, including high-altitude observation vehicles and folding fences. In particular, in preparation for potential terrorist threats, metal detectors (MD) will be installed at all 31 official entrances starting at 7 AM, and special police forces will be positioned inside the gates. Spike strips and barricades will also be set up to prevent vehicle ramming incidents. If the crowd density exceeds 2 people per square meter, access will be immediately blocked, and preparations have been made for police deployment in anticipation of crowds flocking to major urban areas like Itaewon and Hongdae after the performance ends.

33 Hours of Traffic Control in Gwanghwamun… Mixed Responses from Businesses on 'Special Expectations' vs 'Closure Decisions'

Traffic control in the city center will also be proactively implemented. The section from Gwanghwamun to City Hall along Sejong-daero will be completely restricted for vehicle traffic from 9 PM on the 20th to 6 AM on the 22nd, totaling 33 hours. The reactions from nearby businesses facing this massive event are sharply divided. Some restaurants and cafes are preparing special events targeting the fandom ARMY, expecting sales to increase by more than three times compared to usual. On the other hand, there are also many fitness centers that have decided to temporarily close due to concerns over safety accidents caused by extreme crowd density. Despite concerns about paralyzing urban functions, authorities are fully committed to proactive measures prioritizing citizen safety.