Proposal for Legal Amendments Follows Controversial Security Incident Involving Actor Byeon Woo Seok at Incheon Airport

On August 16, 2024, a proposal was introduced by Kim Young-bae, a representative from Seongbuk-gap in Seoul and a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, aiming to amend the Airport Facilities Act. The proposed change is a direct response to an incident involving actor Byeon Woo Seok and his security team at Incheon International Airport. The incident has drawn significant public and governmental attention due to the alleged excessive security measures taken by private bodyguards, raising concerns about the rights of passengers in public spaces like airports.

Details of the Incident Involving Byeon Woo Seok

The controversy began on July 12, 2024, when Byeon Woo Seok, known for his role in Lovely Runner, arrived at Incheon Airport. Reports suggest that the private security personnel accompanying the actor engaged in aggressive tactics, including pointing flashlights in passengers’ faces and taking control of airport gates. These actions led to complaints from passengers, and soon after, Incheon International Airport Corporation disputed the security team’s claim that they had obtained prior permission from the airport security unit.

The situation escalated further when the International Airport Police Corps booked an employee of the security company as a suspect in the case. The police are investigating whether the security measures used by Byeon Woo Seok’s team violated the Security Industry Act and if additional charges, such as coercion and obstruction of business, should be filed.

Proposed Changes to the Airport Facilities Act

Kim Young-bae‘s proposal seeks to amend the current Airport Facilities Act to include provisions that would penalize private security guards who interfere with passengers’ use of airport facilities without proper authorization. Kim emphasized that airports are public spaces, and access should not be restricted without the approval of the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport or other relevant authorities. The proposed amendment aims to ensure that private security personnel cannot block airport passengers’ entry or movement, thus safeguarding the rights of the public.

Arrests and Investigations Following the Incident

On August 16, 2024, Yonhap News reported that the Incheon International Airport Police Department had arrested four individuals in connection with the incident. Among those arrested is Mr. A, the 40-year-old CEO of the private security company involved in the controversy. The other three individuals include two bodyguards employed by the company and one freelance security personnel.

The charges against the four arrested individuals include violations of the Security Industry Act for using excessive measures while protecting Byeon Woo Seok. Although they have not been detained, the investigation is ongoing, and officials from the security company have been summoned for further questioning. The police will determine if additional charges will be filed once the case is referred to the prosecution.

Varo Entertainment’s Response

Varo Entertainment, the agency representing Byeon Woo Seok, addressed the allegations of excessive security in a statement. They acknowledged that their agency did not fully grasp the situation at the scene and expressed responsibility for the discomfort caused to passengers during the security process. The agency extended apologies to those who felt uneasy due to the actions of the security team.

The proposed amendment to the Airport Facilities Act has sparked a broader discussion about the balance between celebrity security and public access to shared spaces like airports. The ongoing investigation will determine the legal consequences for those involved and may lead to stricter regulations governing the behavior of private security teams in public areas.

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