▲ Workers dismantle the stage and remove equipment at Gwanghwamun Square in Jongno District, Seoul, on March 22, 2026, the day after BTS’ concert. (Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, March 23 (Yonhap) -- Police said Monday that safety measures must err on the side of excess, responding to criticism that crowd control was overly strict during BTS’ comeback concert in Seoul.

 

Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency Commissioner Park Jeong-bo said at a regular press briefing that authorities prioritized public safety, citing potential terror threats linked to the Middle East situation.

 

“Regarding public safety, it is necessary to respond excessively,” Park said, adding that while the measures may have caused inconvenience, most citizens cooperated well.

 

The remarks came after controversy over the discrepancy between the anticipated crowd of 260,000 and the actual turnout. The concert drew about 104,000 people according to organizers, or 48,000 based on city estimates.

 

Park explained that the higher estimate reflected preparations for a worst-case scenario in which crowds could extend as far as Sungnyemun.

 

Police received a total of 74 emergency calls related to the concert, most of which involved traffic inconvenience and noise complaints. Park said the on-site response proceeded smoothly.

 

Three reports of public threats were also filed, but authorities determined the individuals involved were either intoxicated or suffering from mental illness, and the cases were closed.

 

Separately, police blocked or removed 194 online posts suspected of scams involving ticket resales or proxy ticketing.

 

Three cases of ticket transfer fraud were referred to regional police agencies, while two cases involving suspected bulk purchases using macro programs are under investigation by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s cyber unit on charges of business obstruction.

 

Park said that despite some inconvenience, strong public cooperation and coordination among relevant agencies ensured the event concluded safely and in an orderly manner.

 

Meanwhile, police said their probe into Bang Si-hyuk, who faces allegations of fraudulent unfair trading, has entered its final stage following fact-finding and legal review. He added that no further questioning is currently scheduled, though additional investigation could be conducted if necessary.

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]