IVE member Jang Wonyoung recently found himself at the center of online discussion after footage of his departure from the airport sparked debate among netizens. Subsequently, the airport authorities took action to provide clearer indications on the procedures for verifying the identity of passengers.
An updated notice appeared on the official website of Gimpo International Airport on June 20. In the section dedicated to the simulation of the departure entitled “Boarding Gate Identity Verification and Ticket Inspection” A new statement has been 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 the airport, prompting authorities to officially clarify procedures that had previously been communicated primarily through verbal instructions.
On May 30, Jang Wonyoung left for Shanghai, China via Gimpo International Airport to participate in an overseas program. She arrived at the airport wearing a black cap and mask.
During the departure screening process, airport staff requested identity verification. The footage showed Jang briefly lowering his mask as part of the procedure.
According to the video, an employee then asked to take another look at his face, after which Jang lowered his mask again before completing the verification process.
As clips of the interaction spread across online communities and social media platforms, the incident quickly became a subject of debate among netizens.
Particularly notable was that fellow IVE member Gaeul was also seen undergoing an identity check at the airport. Unlike Jang, Gaeul completely removed her mask and showed her entire face during the trial, leading some online users to compare the two members’ answers.
Following the discussion, reports emerged that a formal civil complaint had been filed with the safety management department of Korea Airports Corporation’s Gimpo Airport Operations Division. The complaint reportedly called for clearer public disclosure of the official standards and guidelines governing identity verification procedures at the international terminal.
In response, the Korea Airports Corporation announced on June 16 that it would strengthen guidelines regarding passenger identification procedures through various methods, including updated information on its official website.
Sources: Daum
