BTS Encourages ARMY to Stay Calm and Safe at Seoul Comeback Concert Amid Terror Alert
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BTS is set to make a triumphant return with their first concert in years, urging fans to enjoy themselves while adhering to safety guidelines.
In a series of posts on Weverse on Thursday, March 19, both RM and Jin reminded the ARMY to be vigilant and follow safety protocols ahead of their highly anticipated comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. “Everyone in ARMY! We are also very excited to meet you,” RM stated, according to Weverse’s English translation. “As it is a gathering place for many people, please make sure that everyone can enjoy the performance safely and joyfully.”
He further emphasized the importance of order during the event, urging fans to heed the advice of field staff and safety personnel. “I think a better performance can be completed only when there is order and consideration made by each ARMY. I would like to say thank you so much to the police officers who are working hard for safety, as well as to the fire department, the government and local governments,” RM added.
Meanwhile, Jin expressed his gratitude for the imminent gathering. “There’s only one day left until our comeback,” he wrote on his page. He reflected on the significance of the moment, acknowledging the efforts of those involved in making the concert possible. Jin echoed RM’s safety plea, encouraging fans watching live to prioritize their safety.
The members’ messages come just a day after Seoul elevated its terror alert level, raising it to the second-lowest on a four-step scale, according to The Guardian. The city anticipates a crowd of up to 260,000 people for BTS’s free performance, scheduled for March 21, celebrating the release of their new album, ARIRANG.
As reported by Billboard Korea, security measures will be extensive, with 6,500 police officers, 70 riot control units, and over 5,400 pieces of specialized equipment deployed on the day of the concert.
BTS has not performed as a group since October 2022, when they took the stage in Busan for South Korea’s bid to host the World Expo in 2023. Following that performance, members began their military enlistments while also focusing on solo endeavors.
Following the Seoul concert— which will be livestreamed on Netflix for fans unable to attend in person— the group will head to New York City for a Spotify event on March 23, featuring a performance and fan Q&A. They will also make an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on March 25, marking their first late-night interview as a group since completing military service. BTS is expected to perform songs from their new album during back-to-back episodes of the show.
