BTS Plans “K-Heritage” Concerts in Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung in March

As BTS releases its fifth studio album *ARIRANG* on March 20, its agency HYBE is preparing large-scale Comeback concerts in the Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung areas. HYBE recently submitted an application to the National Heritage Administration for permission to use these sites for a concert titled “A Fusion Performance of K-Heritage and K-POP,” with the Cultural Heritage Committee of the National Heritage Administration scheduled to discuss the request on the 19th.

The locations proposed for the concerts include Gyeongbokgung’s Geunjeongmun and Heungnyemun gates, Gwanghwamun and the Gwanghwamun Moondae area (including the surrounding walls), and Sungnyemun gate. HYBE has applied simultaneously for permission to use these locations as well as for filming.

The concerts will be free of charge, with attendees selected through advance registration, aiming to accommodate between 15,000 and 20,000 people. March 20, 21, and 22 are under consideration as potential dates for the events. Gwanghwamun Square is a space that represents Korean identity, where voluntary citizen gatherings and group cheering events during World Cups take place.

In discussions with the National Heritage Administration, HYBE stated, “We prioritize the preservation of the heritage sites’ original forms and the safety of citizens. We will establish a on-site management system led by skilled professionals and proceed with responsibility to create a model case for such utilization.” The Seoul Metropolitan Government previously hosted group cheering events in Gwanghwamun Square during the 2022 Qatar World Cup and the 2018 Russia World Cup, accommodating approximately 20,000 people each time.

BTS previously performed in Gyeongbokgung’s Geunjeongjeon hall and Gyeonghoeru pavilion in 2020, with that performance later broadcast on the American NBC show *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*. The new album *ARIRANG* is expected to reflect the group’s identity as an artist originating from Korea, along with feelings of longing and deep love held within their hearts. A HYBE official said, “We are currently discussing concerts in the Gwanghwamun area, and once final decisions are made regarding the locations and dates, we will announce them officially.”