Seoul: Police said Monday they will deploy counter-terrorism special forces in preparation for K-pop supergroup BTS' Seoul concert, slated for March 21, expecting a crowd of up to 260,000 would gather at Gwanghwamun Square, the venue for the concert, and its surrounding areas.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Park Jeong-bo, commissioner of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, stated that his agency will form a special task force led by the public safety deputy commissioner to ensure that the concert would proceed safely through the preparation of all functions.

Police estimate that the maximum number of 260,000 people will gather in areas from the concert stage at the northern starting point of Gwanghwamun Square to Sungnyemun gate, including 230,000 expected between the square and Daehanmun, the main gate of Deoksu Palace.

Park mentioned in a media briefing that while the exact number remains uncertain, preparations are being made for the maximum expected turnout. Police plan to manage crowd flow and safety conditions by dividing the venue into four zones based on crowd density: core zone, hot zone, warm zone, and cold zone.

Additionally, nine police stations will deploy 13 violent crime teams to respond to possible outbreaks of violence, riots, and terrorism. Special police forces are set to conduct anti-terrorism operations, which include inspecting for explosives and monitoring individuals displaying suspicious behavior.

Hybe, the K-pop company behind BTS and the organizer of the upcoming concert, has committed to securing 3,553 security personnel. However, Park indicated that more personnel might be requested depending on crowd size. Emphasizing public safety, Park noted the necessity of full preparation due to the large number of people anticipated on the roads.

Police also indicated their readiness to address ticket-related fraud and other illegal activities associated with the event.