Incheon International Airport has withdrawn its plan for a dedicated entry gate for celebrities amid criticism of preferential treatment. The decision was made after the initial announcement raised controversy over excessive security for celebrities at the airport.

On October 27 KST, the Incheon International Airport Corporation announced, "In light of diverse opinions raised during the parliamentary audit and media coverage, we will not implement the special entry procedure for high-profile individuals causing dense crowds, which was scheduled for October 28." They added that they plan to gather more feedback and review overseas airport practices to ensure the safety of airport users and manage crowd congestion without issues.

Previously, on October 23, the corporation had sent a document requesting cooperation for a procedure for celebrities to use a dedicated entry gate at Incheon Airport. According to this, celebrities and public figures who submitted an advance application could use a special gate for departures starting from October 28.

This move was seen as a response to a controversy in July, where actor Byun Woo Seok’s private security guards used flashlights on airport patrons and controlled gate access, sparking debate over excessive security. The incident highlighted safety concerns due to large crowds gathering during celebrity arrivals and departures.

The proposal for a separate celebrity gate quickly led to accusations of preferential treatment, with the use of crew and pilot entry gates causing public backlash and feelings of unfairness among general travelers.

The issue was further inflamed when it was revealed that the corporation had primarily sent the notice to large agencies. During a parliamentary session on October 24, Representative Jeon Yong Ki criticized this, pointing out that "the notice wasn’t even sent to Mulgogi Music, which represents Lim Young Woong. Why is it allowed for Byun Woo Seok but not Lim Young Woong?”

With unresolved concerns over eligibility criteria and fairness, the corporation ultimately withdrew the plan a day before its implementation. The focus now shifts to how Incheon International Airport will address the crowding issues associated with celebrity arrivals and departures.