Police Releases Statement About BTS’s Gwanghwamun Show Amidst Controversy
Regarding criticism that police control during BTS’s comeback concert was excessive, Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency Commissioner Park Jeong Bo released a statement at a press briefing in March23.
“When it comes to public safety, we must respond excessively. Considering the threat of terrorism due to the Middle East situation, we prioritized safety above all else for this event.”
Addressing the overestimation that up to 260,000 people would gather, he explained that it had been more of a preparation step for the worst case scenario.
“We prepared for the worst-case scenario where up to 260,000 people could fill the area up to Sungnyemun.”
Police reported that a total of 74 emergency (112) calls were received in relation to the BTS concert. Most of the reports were related to traffic inconvenience and noise complaints. There were also three public threat reports, but the cases were closed after confirming the individuals involved were intoxicated or had mental health issues. Police also deleted or blocked 194 online posts suspected of scams involving proxy ticketing or ticket resales.
Three cases of ticket transfer fraud were handed over to regional police agencies, while two cases involving suspected bulk ticket purchases using macro programs are currently under investigation by the Seoul Metropolitan Police cyber unit on charges of obstruction of business.
All in all, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency considers the event a successful one, with no casualties. Despite that, criticism about the excessiveness of the event and resources still continue. You can read more about it below.
HYBE Issues Official Statement Addressing Issues Surrounding BTS’s Gwanghwamun Concert
