IVE member Jang Wonyoung recently found herself at the center of online discussion after footage of her airport departure sparked debate among netizens. In the aftermath, airport authorities have moved to provide clearer guidance regarding passenger identity verification procedures.
On June 20, an updated notice appeared on the official website of Gimpo International Airport. Under the departure simulation section titled “Boarding Gate Identity Verification and Ticket Inspection,” a new statement was added: “For identity verification purposes, please temporarily remove your mask, hat, and sunglasses.”
The update comes after widespread attention surrounding a recent video of Jang Wonyoung departing from the airport, prompting authorities to officially clarify procedures that had previously been communicated mainly through verbal instructions.
On May 30, Jang Wonyoung departed for Shanghai, China, via Gimpo International Airport to attend an overseas schedule. She arrived at the airport wearing a black cap and a face mask.
During the departure screening process, airport staff requested identity verification. Footage showed Jang briefly lowering her mask as part of the procedure.
According to the video, an employee then requested another look at her face, after which Jang lowered her mask once more before completing the verification process.
Particularly notable was the fact that fellow IVE member Gaeul was also seen undergoing identity verification at the airport. Unlike Jang, Gaeul removed her mask completely and showed her entire face during the process, leading some online users to compare the two members’ responses.
Following the discussion, reports emerged that a formal civil complaint had been submitted to the Security Management Department of the Korea Airports Corporation’s Gimpo Airport Operations Division. The complaint reportedly requested clearer public disclosure of the standards and official guidelines governing identity verification procedures at the international terminal.
In response, the Korea Airports Corporation announced on June 16 that it would strengthen guidance regarding passenger identification procedures through various methods, including updated information on its official website.
Sources: Daum
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