Next month, BTS will stage a free concert at Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square on March 21, attracting an estimated 260,000 attendees. In response, Gyeongbokgung Palace will close to the public that day.
Official Closure Announcement
The Cultural Heritage Administration confirmed the palace closure through an official briefing and social media posts on the 28th. Authorities plan to shut the main gate while limiting operations to manage the massive crowds expected from the event.
Event Significance and Preparations
The concert date coincides with peak attendance projections for BTS’s performance, which aims to showcase Korean culture globally to fans and visitors. Organizers selected Gyeongbokgung as a key cultural landmark to highlight during the promotion.
At a recent Cultural Heritage Administration committee meeting, officials detailed plans to close all three Gwanghwamun gates, including Hongye Gate, as they serve as primary entrances. This marks the largest crowd influx for a private concert of its kind.
Precedent for Cultural Site Management
Cultural assets near the square typically close on Tuesdays, and the Seoul Cultural Heritage Association follows suit for major events like music performances and ballet shows. The administration has coordinated extensively with BTS’s affiliate company on event planning, stakeholder relations, and public outreach.
Domestic firms linked to Gyeongbokgung are also prioritizing preparations to ensure smooth operations amid the heightened activity.
