A large public concert is being held at Gwanghwamun Square on 21 March, with around 260,000 spectators expected to attend. Public transport around Gwanghwamun Square, including City Hall, Gyeongbukgung and Gwanghwamun train stations will be affected. Traffic controls, including road closures around the area will begin on 20 March.

Ahead of the concert, the South Korean Government has raised its Crisis alert to “Caution” (level 2 of 4). The Terrorism alert has also been raised to “Attention” (level 2 of 4) for the Jongno-gu and Jung-gu districts until midnight on 21 March. Local authorities have strengthened their security and patrol operations around the area.

There is growing concern about increased risk of attacks on Israeli, Jewish and US interests globally. Avoid Israeli and US diplomatic missions and locations associated with Israeli, Jewish and US interests. The concert on 21 March, Gwanghwamun Square is in close proximity to the US Embassy. Follow advice of local authorities in case of emergencies. Visit the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official event website for updates (see ‘Safety’).

We advise:

Exercise normal safety precautions in South Korea.