Seoul City Grants Conditional Approval for BTS’s Gwanghwamun Comeback Concert… Date Set for March 21

Seoul City has decided to issue a conditional use permit for BTS’s comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square. The concert will take place on March 21 and serve as the stage where BTS will debut their fifth studio album, ARIRANG, which marks their first release in 3 years and 9 months.

At the “1st Gwanghwamun Square Advisory Council Meeting 2026” held at 2 p.m. on the 22nd, Seoul City made the conditional approval decision regarding HYBE’s application for the “BTS 2026 Comeback Show @ Seoul” event. The city plans to issue a final permit promptly once requirements such as approval of a safety management plan, prevention of overlapping exit times for performers and attendees, and minimization of traffic disruptions are met.

This concert represents BTS’s first full-group appearance in front of fans in 3 years and 9 months since their anthology album “Proof” was released in June 2022. It is also the first time a concert by a specific singer or group has been held at Gwanghwamun Square. The new album ARIRANG, which emphasizes Korean identity, will make its debut on stage on March 21, the day of the concert.

Given the expected large crowd gathering in downtown areas, including Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul City intends to thoroughly review safety management plans and work closely with relevant agencies such as the police and Jongno-gu to ensure the safety of attendees first. Additionally, the city will conduct thorough on-site inspections to address unfair practices related to surrounding traffic, public safety, and hotel prices. These inspections will focus primarily on Jongno-gu (280 locations) and Jung-gu (411 locations).

On concert day, Seoul City plans to offer various experience programs for ARMY members as well as foreign tourists. To celebrate BTS’s return, the city aims to create a welcoming atmosphere across Seoul and provide entertainment through a range of programs that combine K-POP and Hallyu content.

Kim Chang-kyu, head of Seoul City’s Balanced Development Bureau, said, “We will prioritize the safety of concert attendees and citizens and tourists who visit Gwanghwamun Square to participate in various events when reviewing and implementing safety plans. We will also organize a variety of events and experiences that allow people to fully appreciate Seoul’s charm and beauty, turning Gwanghwamun Square into an opportunity for it to become a K-pop holy land.”

Previously, HYBE submitted an application to the National Heritage Administration regarding the use of areas around Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun, and Sungnyemun, and received conditional approval on the 20th. With this, BTS has passed what is essentially the final hurdle for their comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square.