BTS is facing backlash over strict security measures at their recent Gwanghwamun Square concert.

The controversy began when a viral video posted by YouTuber couple @wonhyung_couple showed them and other civilians undergoing intense body searches by police near the concert site. The footage quickly spread across Korean online communities like theqoo, sparking heated debate.

In the clip, people are seen raising their arms as officers conduct thorough pat-downs, even on those who weren’t attending the event. The couple shared on Instagram:

Went out on a date and suddenly got full-body searched LOL.
There was no explanation for why they were checking, so people who didn’t even know BTS had a concert might’ve been caught off guard… (There was only one road, and they were checking from the other side too)

BTS #BTS #CoupleYouTubers #CoupleVlog

Reports say the heightened security was meant to manage large crowds and safety risks linked to the high-profile concert. Still, many viewers found the physical searches on random passersby unsettling.

Fans quickly reacted online, questioning the necessity and fairness of the measures. Comments on theqoo included:

They seriously need to explain this and apologize.
What the…
That’s scary.
It’s creepy how people who were just passing by got searched without even knowing why, and then it’s treated like nothing happened.
Watching the video makes it even more shocking. There were SO many police there.
This is insane.
Why isn’t the government apologizing?
Does this even make sense in 2026?
Do the higher-ups seriously not realize this is a problem? Wow.
They’re saying it’s safety measures for the idol concert, but they’re stopping random passersby who don’t even care, checking their bags and doing body searches… this is bizarre.
They really need to apologize for this.
This is honestly so scary… Is this even legal?
The government should apologize… And why aren’t they compensating people?

The incident has reignited discussions on balancing security and personal rights at large-scale events, especially for global acts like BTS.

For more on the concert fallout, see what BTS’s Jimin had to say:

BTS’s Jimin Personally Apologizes On Stage After Massive Controversy Surrounding Concert