BTS Concert Sparks Surge of International Visitors in Seoul
Synopsis
On March 21, the BTS concert in Seoul led to a remarkable spike in foreign tourists across major commercial districts. Discover how Seongsu-dong has emerged as a shopping hotspot and the impact on local retail.
Key Takeaways
78,000 foreign visitors in Jung Ward on concert day Seongsu-dong emerges as a new shopping hub Foreign spending in Seongsu increased by 69% Young women are the primary demographic attending BTS concerts Significant growth in foreign tourism boosts local economy
Seoul, March 29 (NationPress) On the day of the BTS concert earlier this month, key commercial areas in Seoul experienced a significant influx of foreign tourists, with Seongsu-dong emerging as a prominent shopping destination, according to industry data released on Sunday.
On March 21, over 78,000 international visitors flocked to Jung Ward, which houses the renowned Myeongdong shopping area, marking an increase of 15.1 percent compared to the previous year, based on statistics compiled by the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO).
In Jongno Ward, where Gwanghwamun Plaza is situated, the number of foreign visitors reached 37,000, reflecting a staggering rise of 49.9 percent from last year. Other areas saw similar increases, with Mapo Ward attracting 36,000, Gangnam Ward drawing 34,000, and Yongsan Ward welcoming 31,000 visitors.
Seongdong Ward, which includes Seongsu-dong, reported 21,000 foreign travelers, marking a remarkable increase of 52.6 percent year-on-year.
The KTO's data specifically tracks users of roaming services from SK Telecom Co., not accounting for other mobile service providers or local SIM card users.
Furthermore, a report from fashion e-commerce platform Musinsa indicated a notable surge in foreign spending at Seongsu-dong, which has become a new commercial hotspot for younger shoppers. On March 21, international sales at Musinsa's Myeongdong location increased by 43 percent, while sales at its Seongsu branch skyrocketed by 69 percent.
During the three-day window from March 20 to 22, these trends continued, with increases of 32 percent and 75 percent respectively.
According to a representative from a local retail company, "The majority of foreign visitors attending BTS concerts are young women. They are keen to experience the latest trends in fashion, beauty, and food that are currently popular in Korea."
Point of View
It's essential to note how cultural events like BTS concerts can significantly influence local economies and tourism trends. The increase in foreign visitors underscores the global appeal of K-pop and its impact on Seoul's commercial landscape.
NationPress
14 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the increase in foreign visitors in Jung Ward during the BTS concert?
Jung Ward saw an increase of 15.1 percent, with over 78,000 foreign visitors on March 21.
How did Seongsu-dong perform in terms of foreign spending?
Seongsu-dong experienced a surge in foreign spending, with sales at Musinsa's Seongsu outlet increasing by 69 percent on the concert day.
Which areas in Seoul saw the highest number of foreign visitors?
Jongno Ward had 37,000 visitors, followed by Mapo Ward with 36,000, Gangnam with 34,000, and Yongsan with 31,000.
What demographic is primarily attending BTS concerts in Korea?
The majority of foreign attendees are young women who are interested in fashion, beauty, and food trends in Korea.
How does the KTO collect data on foreign visitors?
The KTO data is based on users of roaming services from SK Telecom, excluding those on other carriers or local SIM cards.
