On March 21, crowds of BTS fans, known as ARMY, gathered at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul for a comeback live event. Security personnel conducted thorough body searches using metal detectors at the Donghwa Gate entrance around 11:30 a.m.
Fans Express Frustration Over Searches
One young female fan questioned officials, “Did they say there was a bomb threat?” after passing through a detector. Another added, “Why do this for a concert? It’s just a performance.” Officials responded firmly, “Only clear bags allowed. You can enter only after verifying your clear bag.”
Visitors spread their legs and raised arms as personnel used handheld ‘T-shaped’ scanners for full-body checks. Even medications for anxiety were confiscated, sparking complaints like, “This feels like an excessive search.”
Standard Procedure for Safety
Security teams justified the measures, stating, “Clear bags only to ensure safety. Those refusing screening cannot proceed.” One 70-year-old fan, Kim Mo, shared, “Today, feeling bold, I headed to the Gwanghwamun event from my hotel. They searched my bag at the entrance, I ate inside, and got searched again on exit—twice for one visit.” She noted, “Even if you pass once, you might not get through next time without compliance. It’s frustrating and inconvenient.”
Personnel emphasized that bag and body checks remain standard inside the square, regardless of entry points.
Massive Crowds and Security Setup
The event drew BTS fans nationwide, with personnel targeting ARMY through joint operations. Around 31 gates equipped with metal detectors were set up. Officials described it as targeting “major influencers like popular YouTubers who draw crowds.”
By 11:40 a.m., long queues formed, with two young fans from Yeongyeong losing alcohol items. Searches continued rigorously, even for small items inside bags.
