BTS ahead of Gwanghwamun performance as central Seoul terror alert is elevated

[Seoul=Newsis] Reporter Jeong Byung-hyeok = On the 17th, ahead of Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS)'s comeback performance at Seoul Gwanghwamun Square, road control notices were installed at Gwanghwamun in Jongno-gu, Seoul. 2026.03.17. [email protected] /Photo=Jeong Byung-hyeok

In the lead-up to the group's Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS) performance at Gwanghwamun, the terror alert across central Seoul will be raised one level.

The government announced on the 18th that it will upgrade the terror alert for Seoul's Jongno-gu and Jung-gu from 'Interest' to 'Caution' from 0:00 on the 19th until midnight on the 21st.

This measure is intended to strengthen counterterrorism safety activities in light of the BTS Gwanghwamun performance scheduled for the 21st.

The government said it judged that, given the unstable international situation and the nature of the performance, which attracts large crowds, the possibility of a terrorist threat cannot be ruled out, and it raised the alert level as a proactive response prioritizing public safety.

Terror alerts are divided into four levels according to threat level: 'Interest·Caution·Alert·Serious', and under this measure the areas will be under the 'Caution' level during the event.

With the upgrade, police, fire, military and related agencies plan to strengthen vigilance and patrols at major venues and multi-use facilities, and to reinforce interagency joint response systems so they can respond immediately in case of an incident.

The government said all agencies will closely cooperate to maintain readiness and respond swiftly to any situation during the event.

Reporter Kim Mi-hwa [email protected]