BTS Concert Shuts Down Gyeongbokgung, Museums, and Theaters

Authorities are making significant preparations for the BTS concert at Gwanghwamun Square on March 21. This much-anticipated event is expected to draw massive crowds, prompting public safety measures and temporary closures of historic landmarks and cultural venues. The concert coincides with the release of BTS’s fifth full-length album, “Arirang,” on March 20.

BTS Concert Shuts Down Gyeongbokgung and Cultural Venues

The Korea Heritage Service has announced that Gyeongbokgung Palace, the principal royal palace from the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), will close its doors to the public. The palace’s parking facilities will also be inaccessible on the day of the concert.

Safety Measures and Cultural Site Closures

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: Closed on March 21 with restricted public access.
• National Palace Museum of Korea: Operations suspended on concert day.
• National Museum of Korean Contemporary History: Closed on March 21, located adjacent to Gwanghwamun Square.
• Sejong Center for the Performing Arts: All performances canceled for the day.
• Seoul Metropolitan Ballet: Canceled the double bill “Bliss & Jakie,” earlier scheduled for March 21, but added a new performance on March 22 at 2 p.m.
• Other performances, including “Anna Karenina” and “The Wasp,” were also called off.

Event Details

BTS is expected to perform with Gyeongbokgung serving as a stunning backdrop. The concert will feature a mix of new tracks from the upcoming album and beloved past hits. Organizers plan for the group to proceed through Gwanghwamun and the Woldae platform before taking the stage at the northern end of the square.

Expected Attendance

Police anticipate that around 230,000 spectators will gather within the vicinity of the main stage, extending to Daehanmun Gate at Deoksugung. Up to 260,000 attendees could be present, reaching as far as Sungnyemun, where an exciting media facade event using LED projections will take place.

Precautionary Measures

Given the prominence of historic and cultural landmarks in the area, authorities are implementing special precautions to ensure visitor safety and protect these important sites. The concert will be livestreamed globally on Netflix, providing fans around the world a chance to partake in this landmark event.