HYBE apologizes for excessive security, disruption caused by BTS comeback concert in Seoul
HYBE has apologized for the disruption caused by BTS's comeback concert in Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul and thanked fans for their support and consideration.
ICYMI, the K-pop boy group returned to the stage after a nearly four-year hiatus on March 21. The label said that about 104,000 fans attended the show, which featured the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace as its backdrop. This figure was lower than an initial projection of 260,000, while police estimated the crowd size was far smaller at about 42,000, according to Yonhap news agency.
Chosun Daily reported that the large-scale traffic controls inconvenienced citizens, including a couple whose wedding guests boarded police buses from Euljiro 3-ga Station to their venue. The guests, as well as office workers passing through the area, reportedly underwent body searches.
Some 15,000 police officers and security personnel were mobilized for the concert, with barricades lining the roads and nearby venues shut.
Bus and subway lines passing through Gwanghwamun were also diverted, while some roads in the neighborhood were closed.
"We would also like to both apologize to and thank the citizens in the Gwanghwamun area, along with the local merchants, office workers, and visitors," HYBE said in a statement, as translated by Soompi.
"Because we absolutely needed to ensure the safety of this event that was receiving attention from all over the world, we inevitably had to implement certain [safety] measures, such as traffic and building restrictions or searches for dangerous items. We would like to sincerely apologize to those who commute through Gwanghwamun Square and everyone who experienced inconvenience in their precious personal schedules or daily routines because of these [measures]. It was thanks to your generous understanding and consideration that we were able to create this meaningful occasion."
The label also offered its condolences to those affected by the fire in Daejeon, which started on March 20 and was extinguished by Saturday afternoon. Fourteen died, and 59 others were left injured in the incident.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families, and we wish those who were injured a speedy recovery," HYBE said.
Since the deadly 2022 Halloween crush that killed 159 in Seoul, South Korea has remained on high alert for mass-gathering risks.
