Big Spender Sparks Backlash After Renting Entire Hotel for BTS Event
BTS is facing backlash after the Four Seasons Hotel in Gwanghwamun was fully booked ahead of their March 21 comeback stage.
The controversy began when it was revealed that Netflix, which holds the broadcasting rights for the concert, rented out the entire Four Seasons Hotel for two days (March 21-22). The hotel is being used to host an exclusive event for global VIPs and content partners in preparation for the BTS comeback.
Despite some rooms technically being available, the hotel set an internal policy to block general guest bookings. Industry insiders explained the move:
“Even if some rooms are vacant for formality, the operation is effectively being conducted at the same level as a full-fledged venue rental for the sake of operational control and security.”
Hotel access will be tightly controlled during the event, with entry restricted for outsiders and guest movement reorganized around VIP activities.
“Given the nature of the event hosted by a global content company, the security requirements are very high.”
— hotel industry official
BTS members themselves will not stay at the hotel. They are expected to travel from their homes, while the hotel serves only the Netflix event and international VIPs.
Fans quickly reacted online, expressing frustration over the inconvenience caused to the public. Comments included:
- “I heard they made them cancel all the wedding reservations at the hotel.”
- “Can you see the performance well from the hotel?”
- “There’s still a lot of rooms available, why do they keep reporting that it’s fully booked?”
- “Four Seasons is super expensive…all the international companies are taking our money.”
- “So I guess this is an event that’s uncomfortable for the citizens, yet fun for the rich.”
The retail and tourism industries are also watching closely as hotel bookings surge unusually in the Gwanghwamun area due to this large-scale event.
