Most K-drama fans are already aware of how significant Gwanghwamun Square is in South Korea. They would have seen it in the ‘Seoul’ music video by Super Junior and Girls’ Generation or in the scene where King Lee Gon meets Jeong Tae-eul for the first time in the drama ‘The King: Eternal Monarch.’ It has become a popular tourist spot for drama fans who are visiting Korea. However, the Square is now in the spotlight for a different reason. BTS is set to hold their free comeback concert at this iconic venue.
The Legacy of Gwanghwamun Square
The historic square is essentially a public space that serves as a stage for gatherings, protests, and cultural events. With a history spanning over 600 years, it is a place of deep significance in Korea. Originally built in 1395, it served as the southern gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace. King Taejo established it during the foundation of the Joseon Dynasty. The people then used the place to express their complaints to the king. Over time, it has evolved into a cultural centre, which reflects Korea’s socio-political journey.
Throughout history, the Square has seen various dynasty changes, civil unrest, and periods of colonial neglect. Japanese invaders burned down the site, and Japanese colonisers later destroyed it in 1927. Yet, it has remained a vital space for Koreans and a symbol of Korean sovereignty.
In the 20th century, it functioned primarily as a heavily trafficked roadway, yet at its core, it remained a public space. The site hosted the independence marches of 1919 during Japanese colonial rule. It also held various protests, candlelight vigils, and mass movements, including the recent impeachment protests. It has consistently stood for democracy, nationalism, and unity. Fans gathered in the Square in large numbers to cheer their national soccer team during the 2002 World Cup. The redevelopment of the space into a public square was carried out by the administration and completed in 2009.
Today, Gwanghwamun Square presents a strong contrast, with high-rise buildings set against the backdrop of Bukhansan Mountain and historical monuments. It stands as a testament to Korea, where history meets modernity. The Square now includes landmarks such as the statue of King Sejong, along with an exhibition on his life. He is one of the greatest kings of the Korean Empire and the creator of Hangul. It also features a statue of the national hero, Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a naval commander. It has fountain areas where children often enjoy themselves. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the country and its environment. The square continues to hold cultural importance through art exhibitions and other cultural events.
BTS: A Historic Performance at a Historic Venue.
Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS) is set to perform an exclusive live performance at this legendary venue on March 21. Although various events have been held before, it will be the first time such a large-scale event is organised at Gwanghwamun Square. Organisers expect at least 200,000 people, including the band’s international fans, to attend the event. ‘Gwanghwamun was selected precisely because it is a space that best represents Korean identity,’ BigHit officials stated. They added that the performance will be a physical and emotional journey, embedded with layers of national significance.
Reports say that organisers will install large electronic displays around the Square to enable live streaming of the performance. Additionally, the concert will be streamed live exclusively on Netflix, allowing fans across the world to tune in. The agency expects about 50 million global viewers to tune in live. While the Seoul Metropolitan Government granted BTS conditional approval, safety measures must be cleared. The Gwanghwamun Square concert will mark their first full member appearance in Korea after a hiatus of nearly four years. The band will begin their world tour in April 2026.
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