BTS Comeback in Gwanghwamun Sparks Seoul Emergency Plans and Hotel Price Surge
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
Seoul is preparing emergency crowd-control and transport measures ahead of BTS’s full-group comeback show, “BTS 2026 Comeback Show @ Seoul,” scheduled for March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square. Authorities expect up to 200,000 people around the city despite the show’s 18,000-ticket capacity, prompting Seoul Metro to deploy staff at major stations (Gwanghwamun, City Hall, Seodaemun, Gyeongbokgung, Jonggak), run trains flexibly by congestion levels, and consider non-stop passes or temporary bus diversions to prevent safety incidents. The city is also reviewing a proposed additional event for about 30,000 people at Seoul Plaza, likely aimed at foreign fans known as ARMY (BTS fandom). Neighboring districts have formed joint inspection teams with Seoul to monitor and act on surge pricing at hotels and motels; some rooms near Gwanghwamun are largely sold out and rates around March 20 are reported 200,000–300,000 won higher than usual. Officials warn they will take administrative measures if exploitative pricing is found.
