With Netflix preparing an exclusive livestream of BTS’s comeback stage in Gwanghwamun Square, journalists have criticized the release of the event’s filming guidelines.
In particular, it limited broadcasters’ filming to 10 minutes, calling it “excessive restrictions.” They argued that 10 minutes was an excessive limitation, given that a crowd of 260,000 is expected to gather that day, with many concerns about safety measures.
According to the press guidelines, the videos provided by BigHit Music and Netflix may only be used for reporting purposes. Netflix will provide a two-minute video for distribution. The source of the provided videos must be credited as “BigHit Music, Netflix,” and media outlets are prohibited from adding any separate branding to the videos.
For on-site mobile filming guidelines, which apply only to reporters in the press section, bringing cameras with detachable lenses and professional filming equipment into the viewing area is prohibited, while mobile phone filming is permitted only within the designated press section.
Live streaming of the performance on official media channels or posting the entire event is also not allowed.
The installation of tripods and fixed equipment is not permitted in public areas outside the viewing zone for “safety reasons.” Aerial photography and drones are also banned.
According to the relevant press guidelines, intended for the press corps of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Seoul Metropolitan Government, filming is permitted for only 10 minutes after the performance begins.
With this, professional broadcasting organizations also spoke out, pointing out that excessive restrictions on filming is unreasonable.
Since this event is being held in a public space of the Gwanghwamun area rather than a concert hall or a restricted, specific location, the Korea Video Journalist Association hopes that video coverage during the performance will be guaranteed to fulfill the media’s role of monitoring public safety.
.— Choi Yeon Song, President of the Korea Video Journalists Association,
A TV producer remarked, “At this point, it feels as though the government should be holding further discussions with Netflix. It is an event where 260,000 people gather, and Korean law enforcement is deployed. While we do not know how much Netflix paid for related costs, are they simply standing by and watching this situation unfold unreasonably?”
Meanwhile, BTS has been accused of profiting from favoritism.
BTS Accused Of Profiting From South Korean President’s “Favoritism”