With BTS set to stage a comeback show at Gwanghwamun on the 21st, Seoul is rolling out sweeping traffic controls and safety measures.
On the 18th, the city announced a multi-pronged plan focused on the venue’s surroundings and major subway stations. Subway Line 5’s Gwanghwamun Station, Line 1/2 City Hall Station, and Line 3 Gyeongbokgung Station will skip stops, and station entrances will be closed. City buses will detour on select routes starting the night of the 20th following prior notices.
On the day of the event, road controls will be enforced on Sejong-daero, Sajik-ro, and Saemunan-ro, among others. To manage large crowds, temporary trains will be added at stations like Gwanghwamun to aid the trip home. Seoul also plans robust support for international visitors, including guidance in six languages.
Personal mobility devices and the public bike service Ttareungi will be suspended, and a special crackdown on illegal parking is planned. Still, some Seoul residents are voicing frustration, saying "It’s inconvenient."
Meanwhile, BTS will return on the 20th with their new song 'Arirang'.