According to authorities, the incident occurred around 3.20pm on April 11 at a ticket office located inside the Auxiliary Stadium of Goyang Sports Complex in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang. An unidentified man reportedly stole approximately 500 bracelets intended for concert entry and fled the scene. These wristbands are provided to attendees who have completed initial verification and must be worn to gain final entry into the venue.
Authorities have acquired CCTV footage from the scene and are currently monitoring the suspect’s movements based on recorded descriptions. The search is ongoing, focusing on routes and nearby areas that the suspect may have used to escape.
Despite the scale of the theft, event organizers made it clear that stolen wristbands alone cannot guarantee entry to the concert. The entry process includes multiple levels of verification, such as mobile QR code checking, identity confirmation and wristband inspection by on-site staff. Furthermore, the bracelets are made of special materials that are difficult to reuse if damaged, and random checks continue even after entry.
However, speculation has emerged that the theft may be linked to illegal ticket scalping operations. At a previous BTS event held in Gwanghwamun in March, touts were caught attempting unauthorized entry by reattaching damaged wristbands or ushering shoppers into the venue. Authorities are therefore evaluating the possibility that the stolen bracelets could be used for similar illegal activities.
Police are now working closely with the event organizers to prevent any misuse of the stolen items and to strengthen security measures on site. Meanwhile, BTS is currently holding their “ARIRANG” world tour concerts at the Goyang Sports Complex main stadium, with additional shows scheduled for April 11 and 12. All shows are sold out and attention is now focused on how this incident could affect upcoming events.
Sources: Daum | My daily newspaper
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