BTS’s Rumored March Along the “King’s Path” Considered Controversial
BTS is facing controversy over their upcoming comeback concert location and concept.
The K-Pop giants will hold a massive free concert on March 21 at Gwanghwamun Square and the nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul. This is their first full-group comeback in more than three years, with their new album ARIRANG dropping the day before.
The issue? The concert organizers asked to use the palace gates—Geunjeongmun, Heungnyemun, and Gwanghwamun—to let BTS enter and walk the “King’s Path” down to the stage on the restored Woldae terrace. This terrace was where kings met subjects in the Joseon Dynasty and has deep historical meaning.
Critics argue this “royal procession” at Gwanghwamun Square, a site symbolizing Korean democracy protests and resistance, is inappropriate. They say it may feel regressive or tone-deaf given Korea’s modern history of fighting authoritarianism.
Social media reactions are split. Some fans embrace the royal theme, seeing it as fitting BTS’s stature. Others condemn it loudly online.
“Since when did BTS become royalty…?
They’re just one of many popular idol groups, and their company isn’t even a reputable one. It’s Bang Si Hyuk’s company, which is under investigation for a stock fraud crime worth trillions of won. Why are they being given such preferential treatment…?
Everyone seems to have lost their minds.
Pack it up.”
— Twitter user @hotcoffeeice2
“Does the Lee Jae Myung administration think that culture is something that can be easily managed by simply partnering with large corporations?”
— Twitter user @Nobody1596891
“It seems like both the organizer and the people who agreed to this are completely insane… We finally created a democratic nation, but if they bring back the monarchy and call it the ‘king’s path,’ will ordinary citizens suddenly be reduced to commoners again, forced to bow their heads and show excessive deference?”
— Twitter user @hahae0320
BTS
The Gyeongbokgung Palace | Wikimedia Commons
The three palace gates leading to the “Woldae.”
Online reactions from Theqoo
BTS fans online meanwhile are hyped:
- “King-tan is coming. LOL.”
- “I’m so looking forward to this.”
- “So when will they make the announcement?”
- “Whether I have a ticket or not, I’ll be in Gwanghwamun on the 21st. I can’t miss this festive atmosphere!!!”
- “I’m looking forward to it.”
BIGHIT MUSIC has not commented on the backlash yet. The March concert will be a major moment for BTS’s return — but the choice of venue and theme is stirring serious debate among Koreans.