Seoul: Shops and hotels in central Seoul are gearing up for a significant influx of fans this weekend as K-pop sensation BTS prepares for a major outdoor performance. BTS is set to perform at Gwanghwamun Square at 8 p.m. on Saturday to celebrate the release of its new album, "Arirang," with the concert anticipated to attract approximately 260,000 people, including 22,000 ticket holders.
According to Yonhap News Agency, several shops around Gwanghwamun Square plan to either close early or remain closed on Saturday to prevent overcrowding during the afternoon. CJ Olive Young Corp., the distribution unit of South Korean conglomerate CJ Group, will not operate four of its Olive Young shops near the square on Saturday, while three other shops in the area will close at 6 p.m., earlier than the usual closing times of 9 p.m. or 10:30 p.m.
Starbucks cafes near Gwanghwamun Square will also be closed on Saturday, including two locations inside the KT Gwanghwamun West building, which will remain closed for the entire day. In Myeongdong, a major shopping district in central Seoul popular with international tourists, department stores are taking additional safety measures for the weekend.
Shinsegae Department Store, which launched a BTS-themed pop-up store earlier this month, is collaborating with district police and local authorities to ensure visitor safety. Lotte Department Store, located a few blocks from Shinsegae, will deploy extra security staff on Saturday.
Four Seasons Hotel, situated a short distance from Gwanghwamun Square, will keep only one of its three gates open starting at noon on Saturday to control crowd flow. The hotel's restaurants will exclusively serve hotel guests or those with reservations, and additional security staff will be on hand. Convenience stores around the square are increasing their stock of goods, such as bottled water, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and mobile phone chargers, in anticipation of a surge in customers. Bilingual cashiers will be available to assist international customers.
Separately, police and the Seoul metropolitan government have identified 31 buildings around Gwanghwamun Square that require special monitoring on the day of the concert. Officials have met with building superintendents to discuss safety measures, including restricting entry and closing off rooftops. Police and the city are concerned that BTS fans without tickets might attempt to reach the tops of nearby buildings to watch the show, posing potential safety risks.