Seoul readies for BTS concert

Stage installation has begun at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, five days ahead of K-pop group BTS' upcoming comeback live performance.

Workers were seen setting up the stage Monday at the square, preparing for the group's "BTS The Comeback Live: Arirang," scheduled for March 21 at 8 p.m.

Buildings surrounding Gwanghwamun Square have also hung banners welcoming the group's return and promoting the upcoming performance. Notices have been posted across the area informing the public of a partial road closure due to the concert.

BTS is set to release its fifth full-length album, "Arirang," on March 20, marking a return as a full seven-member group after completing their mandatory military service last year.

Considering the scale of the group's global fan base and the nature of the open-air, free event, authorities estimate that as many as 260,000 spectators could gather at the venue and surrounding areas.

To prevent safety accidents, the Seoul Metropolitan Government said it will implement a range of safety measures, including bypassing subway stations near Gwanghwamun, restricting access to the rooftops of nearby high-rise buildings and deploying special police units.

The performance will also be livestreamed on Netflix for viewers around the world.