It appears that BTS (방탄소년단) is going big for their long-awaited comeback. According to recent reports, the septet is preparing for a comeback showcase at the historic Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul, marking the first of its kind in K-pop history.
On 22nd January 2026 (Thursday), reports emerged that the Seoul Metropolitan Government has conditionally approved BTS’s planned comeback show at Gwanghwamun Square. This news follows reports that the idols will make their first group performance in nearly four years at the historic site.
Previously, there were rumours that BTS would kick off their highly anticipated comeback with a free showcase in Seoul. The concert is expected to welcome thousands of fans to Gwanghwamun Square and will be live-streamed to 190 countries. Some reports also suggested that the concert will see 15,000 to 20,000 attendees.
As of now, the Cultural Heritage Committee, under the Korea Heritage Service, has granted conditional approval. The government will grant BTS and HYBE final authorisation once the concert organiser passes a safety management review. Authorities have called for additional safety measures to minimise traffic disruptions in the surrounding area.
HYBE will reveal more details about the concert once they’ve received approval. However, tentatively, the concert will take place on 21st March 2026 (Saturday). At the same time, the committee has also conditionally approved HYBE’s separate application to use Gyeongbok Palace, Gwanghwamun Square and Sunghyemun Gate for filming purposes.
If the concert is approved, it’ll mark the first time a single K-pop group has hosted a concert at Gwanghwamun Square. Meanwhile, BTS is also gearing up for a new world tour, with a two-day show in Kuala Lumpur.
Sources: Forbes, Korea JoongAng, Korea Herald
