Seoul: South Korea's culture and sports minister announced plans to increase large-scale K-pop concerts at Seoul World Cup Stadium, aiming to utilize the capital's only venue with a capacity exceeding 50,000 spectators.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Minister Chae Hwi-young made this statement during a parliamentary audit after lawmakers highlighted the shortage of suitable venues for major K-pop events. Chae proposed using protective mats, akin to those at London's Wembley Stadium, to prevent damage to the stadium's lawn, also known as Sangam World Cup Stadium.

The stadium has hosted solo concerts by prominent artists like Lim Young-woong and IU, but concerns over turf damage have made renting the venue challenging. Chae stated that the culture ministry plans to lend these protective mats to the Seoul metropolitan government for the stadium's use and aims to test methods to make the venue available for concerts soon.

The ministry is also planning to support budget upgrades for the stadium, including turf restoration, lighting and sound equipment, and protective mats purchase. Discussions with the Seoul government last month led to a proposal to increase next year's budget by 2.1 billion won (approximately US$1.46 million) for these improvements.

In the long term, the ministry intends to ensure the timely opening of new large-scale performance venues and sports facilities, such as Seoul Arena (2027), Cheongna Dome (2028), Goyang K-Culture Valley (2029), and Jamsil Dome (2032). A feasibility study is planned for next year for a new arena in the greater Seoul area, with a capacity of 40,000 to 50,000 seats, according to officials.