Reactions From Local Residents To 400 International ARMYs' Conduct At Gwanghwamun Move Fans To Tears Of Pride

With just two days left until BTS’s performance at Gwanghwamun Square, fans have begun gathering at the square to take commemorative photos and eagerly await the group’s comeback. The atmosphere at Gwanghwamun is heating up, fueled by the pαѕѕion and excitement of fans ahead of the show. Mαѕѕive LED screens around the area are already filled with images of the BTS members.

Meanwhile, major international media outlets have been reporting live from Seoul, highlighting both the symbolic significance of the concert and the tense atmosphere on site. On March 19, Associated Press reported: "BTS will hold a historic comeback stage at Gwanghwamun Square, the political and cultural heart of South кσяєα." Similarly, AFP evaluated that this stage carries cultural implications that go far beyond a simple pop music performance.

On the other hand, concerns about safety and inconvenience to local residents due to the mαѕѕive crowds have also been widely reported. The UK-based The Guardian wrote: "South кσяєαn authorities have raised the terror alert level in the areas surrounding the event and have strengthened their vigilance by pre-deploying special forces."

Another pressing issue is waste management, as large crowds are expected to gather in the area. Surprisingly, the BTS fan community itself has proactively prepared to address this, earning praise from many local residents and кσяєαn media outlets.

Specifically, the ARMY fandom is actively organizing volunteer efforts to clean up the square after the concert. A volunteer team dedicated to environmental cleanup at Gwanghwamun on the day of the event has been formed. This group, organized mainly through social media (SNS), has attracted nearly 400 fans to sign up. They have not only prepared trash bags but also established detailed plans, including cleanup routes and waste collection мєтнods.

A representative ARMY, Kim Yong-sun, shared the idea behind the initiative: "Many people other than fans will be coming. So, I was worried that if a lot of trash is left behind later, it might cause inconvenience to the citizens and local residents. I thought, 'Ah, cleaning up is a great idea, I should do it,' so I decided to participate."

In addition, some fans have independently launched campaigns to protect cultural heritage sites and public infrastructure, aiming to ensure a safe and orderly concert experience.

Moved by the fandom’s sense of responsibility, local cafés around Gwanghwamun and near HYBE headquarters are expected to offer free coffee to fans participating in volunteer activities.

This initiative by ARMY highlights a mature and responsible fandom culture. Rather than simply being “visitors” who come and go, they have chosen to become active contributors, helping ensure the event runs smoothly and leaving behind a positive impression until the very end. It also demonstrates that ARMY not only loves BTS’s music but has also embraced the positive values the group consistently promotes.

Having grown alongside BTS for the past 13 years, the global fandom “ARMY” is once again drawing attention for its respectful and mature culture through this event. On social media, fans are expressing their support and overwhelming pride:

- ARMY always cleaning up afterwards. That is ARMY etiquette and I am thankful to each and every volunteer that keeps helping

- So proud of being part of this fandom. We really are the best, thank you to everyone who did this

- Honestly, if it were just my normal self, I wouldn’t care this much. But whenever I go somewhere under the name of 'ARMY,' I find myself paying extra attention to everything—cleaning up trash and tidying up—because I’m so worried about potentially reflecting poorly on my artists... But since I know our artists truly recognize and appreciate our hearts, it makes me want to ensure they only receive praise. I know there are many ARMYs who, even if they aren't part of the official volunteer team, naturally think, 'Of course we should clean up after ourselves.' Let’s all wrap this up beautifully together. ARMY fιgнтing!

- Not just showing up for the concert, but cleaning up after? ARMYs truly set the standard for fandom culture

- Im so proud of this fandom. If I could fly to SK, I'd volunteer too

- ARTIST AND THE FANDOM BOTH THE STANDARD. I'm so proud of you ARMY

- This is the sweetest thing ever. ARMYs are the best. I love you all

- BTS inspire good people, and this proves it. The fandom reflects their values so beautifully

- ARMYs mirroring the artists that we stan. So proud of this fandom

- Oh we were brought up by the 7 angels obviously. Every day i’m so proud to be a part of this beautiful fandom

- Of course! We are on our best behaviour so our boys can be proud of us!