In the days leading up to BTS’ March 21 concert, reports emerged that several businesses in the Gwanghwamun area have temporarily closed or reduced operations due to anticipated traffic restrictions and safety concerns. As a result, employees say they have been asked, or in fact pressured, to take annual leave or not come to work at all.
According to the civic group Workplace Gapjil 119, numerous complaints have been filed by workers who say they were instructed to take a half-day off or not show up for work on the day of the concert. Some individuals said they had already submitted leave requests under pressure from the company, raising questions about whether the process was truly voluntary.
The issue has drawn criticism because annual leave in South Korea is legally intended to be used at the employee’s discretion. Experts say forcing workers to take leave in such circumstances may violate labor laws unless there is a valid and unavoidable reason. If the closures were deemed employer-driven, companies could instead be required to provide closure compensation, typically at least 70% of the average wage.
Concerns are particularly high for workers in smaller businesses or those in freelance and platform-based roles, who may not be fully protected by existing employment regulations. For these groups, the financial burden of large-scale events like the BTS concert may fall disproportionately on their shoulders.
The controversy highlights a growing tension between the national celebration and everyday working conditions. While the concert is widely seen as an important cultural event that enhances South Korea’s global image, critics argue that such occasions should not come at the expense of workers’ rights.
At the same time, authorities are preparing extensive security measures for the event, including road closures and limited access to nearby subway stations. With hundreds of thousands of people expected to gather, the city faces the dual challenge of ensuring both public safety and fairness for those affected behind the scenes.
Sources: Nate News
