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BTS Gwanghwamun Comeback Concert Sparks Tourism Surge, Hotel Prices Triple

Published 2026.02.15

By Cely Editor

BTS Gwanghwamun Comeback Concert Sparks Tourism Surge, Hotel Prices Triple

BTS's first full-group comeback concert in 3 years and 9 months is creating a significant ripple effect on Seoul's tourism industry. The concert scheduled for March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square is expected to attract 200,000-300,000 attendees, with foreigners comprising 30-40%, approximately 100,000 visitors. The accommodation industry experienced a boom immediately after the concert announcement. According to travel platform 'Yeogiotte', hotel reservations in Jongno-gu and Jung-gu increased by 450% compared to last year, with luxury hotels like The Plaza and Four Seasons near Gwanghwamun already fully booked. Some accommodations saw prices jump from 119,000 won to 379,000 won per night, nearly tripling. Inbound travel searches from overseas to Seoul increased by 155% within 48 hours of the tour announcement. Projections suggest foreign tourists visiting Seoul this year could exceed 20 million for the first time in history. Police have formed a task force preparing for up to 260,000 people, while Seoul City is implementing measures against price gouging and traffic management.