"BTS Is Coming": Goyang Sees 8-Fold Surge in Accommodation Bookings... Local Economic 'Boom' Becomes Reality

As the 'BTS World Tour 'Arirang in Goyang' is set to take place over three days on April 9, 11, and 12, the so-called 'BTS effect' is emerging throughout Goyang City. Not only in Ilsanseo-gu, where the Goyang Sports Complex-the concert venue-is located, but also in Ilsandong-gu and Deogyang-gu, hotels and accommodations are seeing a surge in reservations, raising expectations for a boost to the local economy.

Lee Dong-hwan, Mayor of Goyang Special City, visits the ‘BTS Special Exhibition’. Provided by Goyang City

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Currently, most accommodations in Goyang City are nearly fully booked from April 9 to 12, which covers the concert period. According to the digital travel platform Agoda, searches for accommodations in Goyang have increased by about eight times compared to the previous week since the BTS World Tour schedule was announced.

According to company representatives, while reservation rates vary by date, Sono Calm Goyang in Ilsanseo-gu (with a total of 824 rooms) has more than 80% of its rooms booked, and Gloster Hotel (with a total of 422 rooms) is almost completely booked for the concert period. YMCA Youth Center in Ilsandong-gu (with a total of 95 rooms) also has reservation rates ranging from 80% to as high as 100%, effectively reaching full occupancy. In addition, regular accommodations near Goyang Sports Complex are also seeing a significant increase in bookings ahead of the concerts, with some fully booked, confirming that the concert boom is spreading throughout Goyang City.

This concert is expected to drive broad-based spending not only in the lodging sector but also in restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, and the tourism industry. The city is actively operating 'Goyang Contrip,' which analyzes visitors' movement patterns and schedules to recommend tailored commercial areas. Over 120 businesses are participating, focusing on the Goyang Tourism Special Zone, the food-rich Anygol, and Bamridan-gil districts.

Additionally, to stimulate the local economy and support livelihoods, the 'Local Economy Revitalization Big Sale Week' is being held from April 6 to 15. A total of 156 businesses, including restaurants, stores, department stores, shopping malls, and large supermarkets across Goyang City, are voluntarily participating in this event.

Goyang Sports Complex. Provided by Goyang City

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For example, furniture discounts are being offered at the Ilsan Furniture Complex, and various shops in Pungdong Anygol, Ilsan Lafesta, Western Dome, Haengsin Art Food Culture Street, and Ilsan Station Food Alley are providing discounts and giveaways. In addition, at Ilsan Aqua Planet, visitors presenting their reservation details, tickets, or admission wristbands can receive a 40% discount on admission (for up to three companions). Lotte Mart (Hwajeong and Juyeop branches) and E-Mart (Ilsan, Pungsan, and Hwajeong branches) are also offering gift certificates or giveaways. The beauty and fashion sectors are hosting discount events as well, providing a range of benefits across various industries.

Various side events are also being organized. From April 7 to 12, the Goyang Tourism Center is hosting the 'BTS Handprinting Special Exhibition,' displaying BTS handprints and autograph exhibits. From April 10 to 12, a special sales event for chef Kim Siyeop's 'Gawaji Rice Dog,' who was the runner-up on MBN's baking survival show 'Cheonha Jebbang,' will be held in front of Ilsanseo-gu District Office.

Amid weakened consumer sentiment due to the recent economic downturn and rising oil prices, this major concert is expected to inject new vitality into depressed commercial districts. With more than 120,000 visitors expected to flock to Goyang City over the three-day BTS concert period, it is anticipated to boost spending on lodging, dining, and tourism, providing tangible benefits to the local economy as a whole.

BTS World Tour 'Arirang' in Goyang' Drives Significant Economic Impact. Big Sale Week Banner. Provided by Goyang City

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Lee Dong-hwan, Mayor of Goyang Special City, stated, "We have prepared various linked programs so that visitors drawn to Goyang for the major concert can experience and spend throughout the city," adding, "We will continue to ensure that the concert industry drives local commerce and that the economic ripple effect spreads throughout Goyang City."

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