Seoul is making extensive preparations for BTS's free 'Arirang' comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square on March 21, with city and government agencies focusing on safety and tourism amid expected crowds of 260,000. Netflix will livestream the event in 190 countries, marking its first live broadcast in Korea. The city is transforming landmarks into an extended concert venue.
BTS is set to hold its first performance in about three years with a free 'Arirang' concert at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on March 21. The group's new album 'Arirang' drops on Friday, with police estimating up to 260,000 people in the area. President Lee Jae-myung urged thorough security measures on Tuesday, including preparations for possible terrorism, during a Cabinet meeting. Police will deploy 6,500 officers and 5,400 pieces of equipment, dividing the area into controlled zones with 31 entry gates. Access to 31 nearby buildings will be restricted, and public transport adjusted, skipping certain stations during peak hours. Netflix will exclusively livestream to 190 countries without extra costs on mobile and TV devices, its first live event in Korea. Naver will provide venue facility locations, Kakao bus routes for 420 lines, SK Telecom its AI A-One system, and KT six base stations. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) is running campaigns with booths, purple-themed HiKR Ground events, VisitKorea promotions of BTS music video sites, discounts, and multilingual helplines. Seoul city will light 15 landmarks red—the album's promotional color—from Friday, host BTS-themed Banpo Bridge fountain shows, and a Cheonggye Stream 'Arirang Light Walk'. HYBE's 'BTS The City Arirang Seoul' project runs from March 20 through mid-April with exhibitions and pop-ups. A Netflix official said subscribers can enjoy the event on various devices without additional costs. KTO's Han Yeo-ok called it 'an exceptional stage to showcase Korean tourism'.