Jang Won Young airport controversy results in improved screening procedures

16 Jun 2026, 10:34 by Alec06 · allkpop

IVE member Jang Won Young has become the unexpected catalyst for changes to airport passenger guidance procedures following a recent controversy surrounding an identity verification process at Gimpo International Airport.

According to reports on June 16, the Korea Airports Corporation is reviewing plans to strengthen and clarify departure screening information provided to travelers through its website and other official channels.

A corporation official stated that the organization is considering measures to improve public guidance regarding identity verification procedures and intends to move forward with those changes.

The discussion stems from a video filmed during Jang Won Young’s departure from Gimpo International Airport on May 30. While traveling to Shanghai, the IVE member underwent a routine identity verification process conducted by airport staff.

During the procedure, an employee requested that she lower her face mask to confirm her identity. Jang Won Young complied by lifting her cap and lowering her mask before continuing through the departure process.

However, footage of the interaction later circulated online, leading to debate among some viewers regarding whether she had responded appropriately to the staff member’s request.

The issue eventually resulted in a formal civil complaint requesting clearer explanations of identity verification procedures at the airport. The complaint noted that Incheon International Airport explicitly informs passengers that masks, hats, and sunglasses may need to be temporarily removed for identity confirmation, while similar guidance at Gimpo Airport was viewed as less visible.

The Korea Airports Corporation emphasized that identity checks are conducted uniformly for all passengers at 14 airports nationwide in accordance with aviation security procedures. The regulations require staff to request the removal of items that may obstruct facial identification, including hats, sunglasses, and masks, before verifying a traveler’s identity.

In response to the concerns, the corporation stated that it plans to provide more detailed information about passenger identity verification procedures through its website and other communication channels in the future.

The move is expected to help travelers better understand security requirements before arriving at the airport and reduce confusion during the departure process.

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