Busan Experiences Major Influx for BTS Concert Event
An estimated 110,000 individuals visited Busan over a two-day period, coinciding with the highly anticipated BTS World Tour ‘Love Yourself: Speak Yourself’ concert held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium. The event, which took place on June 12th and 13th, also served as a catalyst for a city-wide festival project organized by the city and the Busan Tourism Organization.
City-Wide Festival Project Engages Visitors
The festival project extended across various locations in Busan, featuring fan meeting zones, photo opportunities, and welcome centers. These installations were strategically placed throughout the city to enhance the visitor experience and foster a celebratory atmosphere. Official figures indicate that from June 11th to 13th, a total of 31,263 foreign tourists entered through Gimhae International Airport. Of these, 8,200 received commemorative gifts from the city.
Record Turnout at Key Event Locations
The Busan Station welcome center saw an impressive turnout of 26,245 visitors. The Haeundae Gu Nam-ro Love Song Roundabout attracted approximately 100,000 attendees. Further boosting engagement, the Port of Busan’s Pier 1 saw 50,000 visitors, and a drone lighting show at Gwangalli Beach drew a crowd of 54,000.
Robust Safety and Transportation Measures Implemented
Authorities reported that close collaboration with relevant agencies ensured the smooth management of the large crowds, resulting in zero major safety incidents. To accommodate the surge in visitors, extensive transportation measures were put in place. This included over 220 additional subway services and extensions, 48 extra trips on the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit, and increased frequency for city buses. A significant deployment of 4,790 personnel, including police and fire services, was also in effect to manage public safety.
Economic Impact Felt Across the City
The influx of visitors generated a significant boost to the local economy. The average daily sales for souvenir shops in areas like Busan Station, Gwangalli, and Haeundae saw an increase of approximately 8.54 million won, marking a 136% rise compared to the same period last year. A BTS-themed city tour bus service operated with 705 passengers, and all 2,500 copies of the Busan art guidebook were sold out.
Accommodation Solutions Provided Amidst Shortages
The substantial demand for accommodation led to shortages. In response, the city partnered with religious organizations and schools to offer temporary lodging in facilities like training centers, providing 1,776 individuals with a place to stay.
