With BTS set to make a highly anticipated comeback at Seoul’s iconic Gwanghwamun Square, an unexpected voice has entered the conversation.
Just days ahead of the performance, South Korea’s President, Lee Jae Myung took to his official social media account to share his excitement and outline the government’s preparations for the large-scale event. However, what was intended as a celebratory and reassuring message has instead triggered a wave of mixed reactions online.
In his statement, President Lee wrote, “On Saturday, March 21, the proud artists of the Republic of Korea, BTS, will perform at Gwanghwamun Square. I look forward to this being a meaningful time to share our beautiful cultural heritage and charm of K-culture under the theme of ‘Arirang’.”
He went on to emphasise the extensive planning behind the event, stating, “We are making full preparations in collaboration with relevant ministries, police, and fire departments, and other related agencies to ensure the event proceeds safely. We will thoroughly prepare for every procedure, from traffic and crowd management to emergency response, before and after the performance.”
<3월 21일 토요일, 광화문광장에서 대한민국의 자랑스러운 아티스트 BTS의 공연이 열립니다. '아리랑'을 주제로 우리의 아름다운 문화유산과 K-컬처의 매력을 함께 나누는 뜻깊은 시간이 되길 기대합니다. 행사가 안전하게 진행될 수 있도록 관계 부처와 지방정부, 경찰, 소방을 비롯한 유관 기관과…— 이재명 (@Jaemyung_Lee) March 18, 2026
Highlighting the role of citizens, he added, “I trust that our citizens will demonstrate mature civic consciousness by showing consideration for one another and maintaining order. Please cooperate with on-site security personnel and report and ticket scalping that disrupts market order.”
The President concluded his message on a hopeful note, saying, “I hope this BTS performance once again proves the worth of the great culture created by South Korea and becomes a special moment that will be remembered by people for a long time.”
While the message underscored the cultural significance of BTS and the importance of safety measures for a large public gathering, it quickly sparked backlash across online communities. Several netizens questioned whether a K-pop performance warranted direct commentary from the country’s highest office.
Criticism ranged from concerns over government priorities to accusations of excessive involvement. “This is going overboard…I don’t think BTS is on this level,” wrote a netizen. “Such a waste of taxes…” remarked another.
“When are they going to tear down HYBE?” questioned a netizen. “Wow, even the President…this is too much,” commented another.
“There is nothing to be proud of about Bang Si Hyuk, HYBE, or BTS,” noted a fan. “Is this really something that even the President has to step forward and talk about? What’s wrong with this country? Is this some kind of prank?” questioned another.
The controversy also ties into earlier criticism surrounding the government’s large-scale safety measures for the event. Authorities had announced extensive crowd control and logistical plans, which reportedly disrupted local businesses and daily routines in the area.
Some critics have gone a step further, accusing BTS of receiving preferential treatment due to the scale of government involvement and the President’s public endorsement.
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