It was confirmed on June 16 that the Korea Airports Corporation is moving forward with plans to revise guidance methods on its website and other platforms, focusing on strengthening departure procedures for travelers. A corporation official explained, “We are reviewing ways to improve the content of departure guidance notices, and that is the direction we plan to move forward with.”
The move comes in response to the identity verification controversy sparked by footage of Jang Won Young departing through Gimpo International Airport.
The corporation is expected to reinforce the policy of conducting identical identity verification procedures for all passengers across 14 airports nationwide, in accordance with aviation security standard procedures. The regulations state that if passengers are wearing items that cover the face such as hats, sunglasses, or masks staff may request their removal before confirming identity.
The controversy dates back to May 30, when Jang Won Young departed for Shanghai, China, via Gimpo International Airport. During the departure process, she underwent an identity check by airport staff. An employee reportedly asked her to lower her mask for facial verification, and the singer complied by lifting her hat and lowering her mask.
However, criticism later emerged after some viewers claimed that Jang Won Young had not properly responded to the staff member’s request in the viral video.
The issue eventually escalated into a formal complaint. On June 15, it was reported that a civil complaint had been filed with the Security Management Department of Gimpo Airport’s international terminal operations team, calling for clearer identity verification guidelines and official instructions.
The complaint pointed out that Incheon International Airport clearly displays notices during the first stage of security screening instructing passengers to temporarily remove masks, hats, and sunglasses for identity confirmation. In contrast, similar instructions at Gimpo International Airport were reportedly vague or unclear.
The complainant argued that “If passengers are expected to follow a procedure, it should be easy for everyone to understand.” They also requested clarification regarding the regulation’s official title, governing department, specific clauses, and whether the rules are applied equally to all passengers at Gimpo Airport and other airports under the corporation’s jurisdiction.
In response, the Korea Airports Corporation stated, “We plan to actively provide and promote passenger identity verification procedures through various methods, including additional website notices and other communication channels in the future.”
Sources: Nate
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