We’re just days away from BTS’s (방탄소년단) long-awaited comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square, which is set to be one of the biggest musical events in K-pop history. While fans gear up to welcome the boys back to the stage, the police are gearing up to keep the whole thing under control.
Earlier this week, reports shared that the South Korean police are increasing security for the concert, which takes place on 21st March (Saturday), due to possible safety threats. The government had previously announced several safety measures for the event, but is looking to step up its plans amid the recent unstable international situation.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, special police forces will inspect the concert venue, and an analysis team will assess any reported threats in real time. The authorities are also concerned about possible bomb threats, noting that they could disrupt the event. The police stressed that they will strictly enforce civil liability for any public threats.
The government is also raising the terror alert level in the Jongno-gu and Jong-gu areas of Seoul, bringing it up from “attention” to “caution”. The South Korean government classifies its terror alert system into four levels: attention, caution, alert and serious, based on the threat level. The new terror alert level remains in effect until the end of the concert.
In addition to the previous safety measures, the government is also preparing more blockades around the venue to prevent unwanted incidents. Reports say the authorities will use police buses and water barricades to block surrounding roads. Relevant agencies will also install metal detectors at 30 entrances to stop guests from bringing dangerous items into the venue.
In the meantime, BTS released the first teaser for their comeback title track, “SWIM”, increasing hype for their return. The song and their album “ARIRANG”, which is also their tenth studio album overall, will drop on 20th March 2026 (Friday).
Sources: Yonhap, Korea JoongAng, The Star
