[Article translation] BTS to Perform New and Hit Songs at Gwanghwamun... HYBE: "One-Hour Concert for Safety Reasons'

 Original article: NGO

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"Performing time decided considering the nature of an outdoor public venue... Minimizing inconvenience to citizens"

Seoul Metropolitan Government: "The concerts structure and duration are entirely under HYBE's authority"

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BTS's free comeback concert celebrating the release of their fifth full-length album, BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE: ARIRANG, scheduled for next month on the 21st at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, is expected to feature not only new songs but also their past hit tracks. 

According to the music industry on the 28th, their agency BigHit Music under HYBE is currently discussing a stage lineup that will include tracks from their fifth studio album Arirang as well as globally beloved hit songs. 

This concert has drawn significant attention as it marks the first time in three years and nine months that BTS will present their new album on stage to a global audience. The expected running time is approximately one hour. 

HYBE stated that the one-hour duration was decided in consideration of the unique nature of Gwanghwamun Square, located in the heart of Seoul.

The company explained, "The concert duration was determined by us, and we decided to operate it within an appropriate time frame to ensure safety and smooth management."

They added, "Unlike typical concert venues, this performance will take place in a special environment—an outdoor public space. Accordingly, we comprehensively considered stage operations, audience safety management, and on-site control plans when deciding the concert duration."

When ticket sales opened on the 23rd, a large number of fans rushed in, and all 13,000 seats available for general reservation sold out instantly. At the start of ticketing, the waiting queue reportedly reached 100,000 people. 

Police estimate that up to 230,000 people make gather as far as Deoksugung Daehanmun, and up to 260,000 as far as Sungnyemun. The organizers are also reportedly discussing plans to install large screens near Seoul Plaza so that more people can watch the performance. 

HYBE added, "Since this is an event where a large crowd is expected to gather, we also considered audience safety, convenience in using public transportation after the concert, and minimizing inconvenience to residents due to late-night noises. 

Meanwhile, regarding the concerts duration, the Seoul Metropolitan Government stated, "The city is responsible for safety management and administrative support related to the use of Gwanghwamun Square, while the composition and duration of the concert are entirely under the authority and responsibility of the organizer, HYBE." It further explained, "HYBE had requested a one-hour performance time from the initial consultation state in December last year."