The airport security check controversy involving IVE member Jang Won-young has ultimately led to changes in the airport’s operating procedures.
According to the Korea Airports Corporation (KAC) website on the 20th, a new guideline has been added under the ‘Boarding Pass and ID Verification’ section for domestic flights: ‘Please temporarily remove your mask, hat, and sunglasses for identity verification.’
Previously, KAC’s guidance only stated the procedure of ‘presenting identification and air ticket to security personnel (airport police) at the departure gate entrance for identity verification.’ However, the corporation has now formalized procedures that were previously only communicated verbally, ensuring passengers are clearly aware in advance.
This change was prompted by a fan-cam video of Jang Won-young departing Gimpo Airport for Shanghai on May 30th (last month).
At the time, Jang Won-young underwent identity verification while passing through the security checkpoint without fully lowering her mask. This incident sparked a debate regarding fairness, with some questioning why ‘strict identity verification procedures apply to general passengers but not to celebrities.’ The issue quickly escalated into allegations of celebrity privilege. It is even reported that complaints were filed with Gimpo Airport, requesting clarification on identity verification standards and guidelines.
As the controversy spread, the Korea Airports Corporation clarified, stating, “There was no celebrity privilege. The same standards are applied to all passengers according to aviation security standard procedures, and the removal of masks or hats is verbally requested on-site.”
