BTS. Photo: Shutterstock The FCDO has issued a new warning on an upcoming "large-scale public concert" scheduled for the Gwanghwamun Square in South Korea on Saturday, March 21, between 8 PM and 9 PM.
If you are in the area or you plan to travel there, you are advised to be prepared for "large crowds and significant local disruptions", as peparations are undergoing for one of the biggest concerts in world history, by the popular K-Pop band BTS, reuniting after four years in which its 7 members did not appear together for the simple reason that they served in the military
"The Korean government has issued a “caution” (level 2) crisis alert from midnight on Wednesday 18 March until midnight on Saturday 21 March in the Jongro-gu and Jung-gu areas due to increased risks associated with mass crowds gathering. Visitors should pay attention to media reporting and follow the advice of local authorities."
Sejong-daero will be closed to vehicles from Friday, March 20, at 9 PM, until Sunday, March 22, at 6 AM. Pedestrian access will stay open, however expect very restricted movement due to "crowd control measures and crowd density."
Concert in Seoul. Photo: ShutterstockCity Hall, Gwanghwamun, and Gyeongbokgung subway stations will remain shut between the hours of 3 PM and 10 PM on Saturday, March 21. Bus routes through the area will be suspended or rerouted from Friday evening until Sunday.
According to reports coming from South Korea, concerns do not end with a pressing event that could lead to disaster, but also with terrorist incidents and attacks that various elements will try to carry out during the huge show. According to several local media publications in the country, a special military unit has been deployed to secure the event.