The authorities are on high alert.
14 minutes ago
Just a day before BTS‘s massive concert at the Gwanghwamun Square, authorities were alarmed by a potential terror threat at the venue.
BTS | Apple Music
The National Heritage Administration and fire authorities received a report on March 20 at around 2:10 pm KST about a letter at the Gyeongbyukgung Palace claiming that an explosive device had been planted at the venue. A Gyeongbokgung Palace official stated that the report was filed after suspicious objects were found in the palace premises.
There were 2 shopping bags placed near an unmanned ticketing kiosk at Gyeongbokgung Palace with words such as ‘container’ and ‘destruction’ listed on it, so it was reported to the police.
— Gyeongbokgung Palace official
After receiving the report, the police searched the scene but found no explosive devices. It was determined that the contents of the letter itself had no specific details related to an actual explosion.
The police have tracked down a woman in her 60s who is believed to have written the note and placed it with the bags at the scene. She reportedly has a history of similar acts. Though she has been allowed to return home from the scene, taking possible mental illness into consideration, a formal investigation will be conducted later regarding potential charges of public intimidation.
Meanwhile, in preparation for BTS’s historic performance at Gwanghwamun on March 21, the police plan to mobilize around 6,700 personnel to ensure comprehensive crowd safety and counter-terrorism readiness. Strict measures are also being taken, keeping credible bomb threats in mind.
BTS Concert Faces Cancellation Demands As Police Warn Of Bomb Threats