BTS Members Urge Moderation After Directly Criticizing Exorbitant Prices in Busan

As controversy over soaring accommodation costs mounted ahead of BTS’s concert in Busan, the group members spoke out directly. On the 26th, during a live broadcast on their fan platform Weverse, RM said, “There are too many news reports about lodging businesses in Busan. Let’s please be moderate. Seriously,” emphasizing his strong criticism.

Jimin, who is from Busan, also expressed displeasure, saying, “I’m not feeling good about this. I hope fans will leave Busan with only good memories every time they come.” RM noted that while the group wanted to resolve the issue, they were unable to do so, and he voiced concern over some fans staying overnight in places like public saunas.

The severity of the price hikes is evident in specific examples. Hotel rooms that normally cost around 50,000 won soared to 3 million won on the day of the concert, while those originally priced at around 70,000 won jumped to 5 million won. In response, fan communities have launched protests saying, “We won’t spend even one won in Busan,” and a “no-spending overnight challenge” has gained traction. Major temples in Busan have also stepped in to provide free accommodation for fans.

The government has also taken action. On the 28th, the Ministry of Finance and Economy and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism held a meeting titled “Task Force Meeting on Eradicating Regional Exploitative Pricing” and announced the identification of 1,300 alternative accommodations. Universities, religious institutions, public training centers, and youth facilities in Busan, Yangsan, Changwon, and nearby areas will offer free or low-cost lodging to domestic and international tourists. Tourists can make reservations through the “Visit Busan” website and the Korea Tourism Organization’s “Visit Korea” site.

The government is also increasing nighttime trains and late-night buses and strengthening on-site inspections. The National Tax Service, Fair Trade Commission, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and Busan City plan to conduct thorough inspections of the hygiene conditions and price-fixing practices at lodging businesses near the concert venues on May 29th and June 8th–9th.

The government has further strengthened the reporting incentive system. It abolished the previous upper limit and now awards up to 10% of the fines as rewards. Additionally, the deduction points for hotel rating evaluations have been increased from a maximum of 10 points to 30 points. Concurrently, legislative reforms aimed at introducing a “price stability guarantee system” are underway.