Published 2026.02.19
By Cely Editor
The K-pop group BTS is set to hold a comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Plaza on the 21st of next month, raising concerns about significant disruptions to weddings and first birthday celebrations scheduled for the same day. Police estimate approximately 200,000 people will attend the concert, creating fears of severe traffic congestion, noise pollution, and safety hazards. While venues are typically booked 6-12 months in advance, the concert plan was publicly announced only two months prior in mid-last month, leaving couples and families unable to reschedule their events. According to the Fair Trade Commission's guidelines, cancellation without penalty is possible up to 90 days before the event, but with the event now 30-59 days away, cancellations incur a 20% penalty on total costs. Considering Seoul's average wedding cost of approximately 22 million won, penalties alone exceed 4.4 million won. Families preparing first birthday celebrations similarly face the crisis with limited regulatory protections. Wedding venues report they were not informed by local authorities prior to concert approval. Seoul City stated it will provide alternative routes and proactive measures to affected venues once safety management plans are finalized after the Lunar New Year holiday. BTS's agency HYBE announced plans to mobilize company resources to ensure the event proceeds safely.