Incheon International Airport Corporation is set to implement a new procedure allowing celebrities to use a dedicated entry and exit door when arriving or departing from the airport.
It was recently revealed that Incheon International Airport Corporation sent an official notice titled "Request for Cooperation in Compliance with the Procedure for Using Incheon Airport’s Dedicated Gate for Artist Departures" to entertainment agencies.
The document, which was shared on online communities, stated, “To minimize situations that may lead to crowded gatherings, we have established a new procedure allowing celebrities and other public figures to use a dedicated entry and exit door at Incheon Airport. This will be implemented starting October 28, 2024.”
The airport also explained, “With the rising global popularity of Korean artists, there have been frequent cases of large crowds, including fans, gathering at the airport during artist arrivals and departures. The growing size of these crowds is causing discomfort for regular airport users and raising safety concerns.”
They further added, “Uncontrolled crowd gatherings could significantly hinder the safe and comfortable use of the airport by both Korean citizens and foreign visitors. We request that you inform your artists' fanbases to refrain from visiting the airport during their arrivals and departures.”
This measure does not involve creating a new entry gate specifically for celebrities. Instead, celebrities will share the existing gates used by flight attendants and pilots. However, if a celebrity wishes to use the special entry door, their agency must apply in advance.
The issue of airport crowd control gained attention in July when actor Byun Woo Seok’s departure from Incheon Airport attracted a large crowd. The incident, where security guards blocked the airport gate, led to controversy over his use of private security guards. It was reported that the guards flashed lights in the faces of passengers and checked their boarding passes.
Following an investigation, Incheon International Airport Police determined that the head of the security company, Mr. A, and a security guard, Mr. B, violated security service laws. Both were charged without detention.
This incident sparked discussions about the need for basic crowd control measures during the arrivals and departures of celebrities and public figures at Incheon Airport. As a result, Incheon Airport Corporation appears to have shared this new policy with entertainment agencies.
Additionally, Incheon Airport Corporation held a meeting with representatives of major entertainment agencies on October 20, requesting that excessive security during celebrity departures and arrivals be avoided to minimize inconvenience for other travelers.
Reactions from netizens were mixed. Some criticized the move as giving excessive privileges to celebrities, commenting:
“This will only fuel their sense of entitlement."
“Celebrities and agencies already use the airport for product placement under the guise of airport fashion—they should handle it themselves.”
“No new doors will be added; one of the existing ones will be allocated, meaning fewer gates for regular passengers.”
"Wow, being a celebrity has so many privileges now."
"This is special treatment. If it isn't, then what is?"
"They should pay for this special entrance and exit."
"Celebrities are now royalty."
"They should make these celebrities pay for the special exit and entrance."
"I can't believe they're implementing this. Lol."
"Companies could just keep celebrity schedules private and not let anyone know."
On the other hand, others supported the decision, saying:
“Last month, I nearly got crushed while traveling with a certain celebrity.”
“With all the fans and reporters swarming around, this was a necessary step.”
“The airport will be less crowded now.”
“This should have been implemented long ago.”
"This is more logical though."
"I think this special entrance and exit is more for the ordinary people. It was getting out of hand."
"It does get crazy when there's a huge crowd at the airport."
"I think this is such a good idea."
"This is better for both the celebrities and regular people using the airport."
"I think this is good. They don't cause harm to anyone and I think this is a good idea if the airport charges celebrities to use this special entrance."
"I also think this is better. When regular people are using the airport at the same time as celebrities, it’s so inconvenient. Crowds are no joke. This seems like the better option—it's better not to see them. But if they're going to take applications in advance, the airport should charge for it."
What do you think about this special entrance and exit for celebrities at the Incheon International Airport? Let us know in the comments below!
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