A Pokemon-themed event in Seoul, South Korea, has reportedly escalated into a safety concern, drawing significant attention from authorities and the public. According to a report by the Korean publication Kyunghyang Shinmun, more than 50 crowd-safety reports were filed during the event, which took place at Seoul Forest as part of the 2026 Seoul International Garden Show.
Event Details and Crowd Surge
The attraction, named "Pokemon Secret Forest," opened on May 1 and is scheduled to run until June 21. It is a component of a larger city-wide garden event that spans multiple locations, featuring hundreds of garden installations and walking routes. The opening day coincided with South Korea's Labour Day holiday, drawing a massive influx of visitors, including families, fans, and tourists. By noon, approximately 40,000 people had gathered near the Seongsu Cafe Street, leading to overcrowding in key areas.
Authorities Respond to Safety Concerns
As the crowd grew rapidly, especially in the nearby Seongsu-dong district, authorities deployed around 100 police personnel and 30 firefighters to manage the situation. The report claimed that no injuries were reported, but officials took precautionary measures to prevent potential risks. Organizers were eventually forced to temporarily halt parts of the event, including activities linked to Pokemon Go, to control the crowd. This decision followed requests from local authorities and police.
Confirmation and Impact
Pokemon Korea confirmed that the event was temporarily suspended due to heavy crowds. The situation underscores the continued popularity of the Pokemon franchise, which attracts large audiences to real-world events and themed experiences. Despite the disruption, the larger Seoul International Garden Show will continue until October, with Pokemon Secret Forest expected to remain open for several weeks.
Future Precautions
Authorities and organizers are likely to review crowd management plans for the upcoming days. Visitors are being advised to avoid peak hours, as turnout is expected to remain high. The incident highlights the challenges of managing large-scale events and the importance of proactive safety measures.
