Anticipation is high for the upcoming BTS (방탄소년단), featuring RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, performance in Gwanghwamun, Seoul. With an expected crowd of over 260,000 attendees, police are deploying a significant security force to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency announced on March 15th that approximately 6,500 police officers will be stationed at and around Gwanghwamun Square and Sejong-daero for the BTS Gwanghwamun performance on March 21st. This includes over 70 mobile units, traffic control, crime prevention, and special forces. In addition, over 5,400 pieces of equipment, including high-altitude observation vehicles, broadcasting and lighting vehicles, and collapsible fences, will be deployed as part of comprehensive safety management.
Significant traffic control measures will be in place around Gwanghwamun on the day of the event. Sejong-daero, between Gwanghwamun Intersection and City Hall Intersection, will be closed from 9 PM on March 20th to 6 AM on March 22nd. Sajik-ro and Yulgok-ro, from Jeokseon Intersection to Dongshipja Intersection, will be closed from 4 PM to 11 PM on March 21st. Saemunan-ro and Jong-ro, from the Four Seasons Hotel to Seorin Intersection, will be closed from 7 PM to 11 PM on March 21st.
In addition to the mobile units, approximately 6,500 police officers will be deployed. Over 5,400 pieces of equipment, including high-altitude observation vehicles and collapsible fences, will also be mobilized to manage the overall safety of the event.
Access to the performance viewing area will be controlled through 31 designated gates. On March 13th, police held a meeting with security managers from six large buildings adjacent to the venue, as well as officials from Seoul City, Jongno-gu, and Jung-gu, to discuss building access, rooftop closures, and joint entry control measures.
Police are also preparing for potential terrorist situations, such as vehicle intrusions and bomb threats around the performance venue. Spike strips, signboard cars, barricades, and police buses will be deployed around the venue to prevent vehicle breaches.
Furthermore, all attendees will be required to pass through metal detectors (MD) at each gate. Security personnel will be inspecting attendees’ belongings to prevent the entry of dangerous materials into the venue.
An official from the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency stated, “We ask that citizens visiting the event venue actively cooperate with the guidance of the police and the event organizers’ safety personnel.”
