Police stopped several individuals carrying potentially dangerous items at security checkpoints during the BTS comeback live performance at ‘ARIRANG’ on March 21.
According to reports compiled by Korea Daily, around 5:26 p.m., 55-year-old Kwon was detected carrying a gas gun and a taser while passing through a metal detector near the Kyobo Life Building in Jongno-gu, Seoul. She was taken into custody at a nearby police station.
In South Korea, possession of a gas gun requires a permit from the local police chief. Applicants must be at least 20 years old and have no disqualifying conditions, such as mental illness or a criminal record for violent offenses. Permits can be issued through police stations or authorized vendors, and violations can result in penalties under the Firearms, Knives, and Explosives Control Act. Tasers with output exceeding 30,000 volts are also regulated.
Kwon explained, “I’ve been involved in a lawsuit for six years after being defrauded, and I carry these items for personal safety. I was on my way to meet a lawyer in the neighboring building.” Police are currently verifying whether her self-defense items were legally permitted and determining further action.
At another checkpoint, a folding camping knife was confiscated as a hazardous item. German tourist Hackers (45) said, “I usually carry it in my backpack, but it was caught by the metal detector and confiscated. I understand it’s the rule, but it’s unusual to experience such strict security in the city, so it was surprising.”
Earlier in the day, police at the integrated BTS concert command center in Sejong Center for the Performing Arts reported detecting a kitchen knife with a metal detector and confirmed the individual was a chef. In the morning, other people were stopped while trying to pass small knives in their backpacks. They said they only intended to peel fruit during an outing but were briefly held by authorities.
Police continue to stress strict security measures for the BTS event to ensure the safety of all attendees.
SEE ALSO: Cost to host ‘BTS Comeback Live: ARIRANG’ in Gwanghwamun Square estimated at around 60,000 USD for public space usage and permission fees
