Seoul Approves BTS 2026 Comeback Show

Seoul Metropolitan Government granted conditional approval for the "BTS 2026 Comeback Show" requested by HYBE’s Big Hit Music. The city stated that the final approval is contingent upon the event passing a review of its local festival safety management plan. Additionally, authorities added a supplemental condition requiring a plan to ensure that the exit times for the performers and the audience do not overlap. Predicting massive crowds in the Gwanghwamun Square area and throughout the city center on the day of the concert, Seoul officials announced they will closely examine the safety management strategy. Pre-event on-site inspections regarding surrounding traffic and public safety are also scheduled. These inspections will include monitoring for unfair business practices, such as excessive price hikes at local accommodations. The targets for these checks include 280 establishments in Jongno-gu and 411 in Jung-gu, focusing on areas adjacent to Gwanghwamun Square. The Seoul Metropolitan Government also plans to operate experiential programs for foreign tourists, including the BTS fandom, "ARMY," on the day of the performance. Previously, Big Hit Music applied for permission for a full-group BTS comeback concert on March 21. The requested venues include Gwanghwamun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace (Geunjeongmun and Heungryemun Gates), and Sungnyemun Gate. On that day, BTS is expected to unveil their new song, "ARIRANG," marking their first release as a complete group in three years and nine months.