SEOUL, March 17 (AJP) — The countdown is on. As BTS’s long-awaited comeback concert at Gwanghwamun draws near, both Seoul residents and international visitors are bracing for what could be one of the most crowded days the city has ever seen.
Nearly 300,000 people are expected to pack into an area roughly the size of three soccer fields — raising a simple but pressing question: how do you get there, move around and make it through the day?
Transport disruptions expected
Authorities say major subway stations near the venue — including Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), City Hall Station (Lines 1 and 2) and Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) — will skip stops on the day of the event, with some exits closed to manage crowd flow. Anguk Station (Line 3) may also be shut if congestion intensifies.
Above ground, traffic controls will be extensive. Key roads such as Sejong-daero will be closed, and 62 bus routes will be temporarily rerouted.
Safety measures ramped up
The city is preparing for a massive influx of visitors. Around 6,500 police officers will be deployed across the area, while approximately 2,500 temporary restrooms will be installed near the venue.
Real-time updates on transport, safety and facilities will be available through the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s integrated online platform, with multilingual support for foreign visitors.
Still, officials acknowledge the day will be long and physically demanding. With access points restricted and nearby buildings limiting entry, even basic needs — finding restrooms or food — could become a challenge.
Navigation apps such as KakaoMap will provide live updates on road closures, congestion levels, temporary facilities and first-aid stations.
Businesses adapt to the surge
Local businesses are already adjusting operations ahead of the concert, introducing pre-orders, delivery alternatives and flexible staffing.
A nearby Salady outlet is offering advance orders with delivery to the venue, while a staff member at Subway said group orders can be placed one to two days in advance, though delivery will be limited due to road closures.
Convenience store chain CU plans to significantly boost stocks of essentials such as bottled water and kimbap.
Starbucks Korea is also preparing for a surge in both domestic and international customers.
“We expect a significant increase in visitors and will adjust staffing flexibly to ensure safe and smooth operations,” a company official said.
Most stores will remain open until 10 p.m., though some locations near restricted zones will close due to limited access.
Tourist areas see early impact
The concert’s ripple effects are already visible in tourist districts such as Myeongdong.
A currency exchange operator said demand has picked up sharply in recent days, driven mainly by Japanese and Taiwanese visitors arriving ahead of the event.
Restaurants slightly removed from the venue are also preparing for increased foot traffic, particularly from foreign tourists.
Fan takeaway: plan ahead
With transport disruptions, restricted access and massive crowds expected, preparation will be essential:
• Expect subway disruptions and station closures
• Plan restroom use in advance — queues will be long
• Secure food early through takeout or pre-orders
• Allow extra time for movement due to road closures and crowd control
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