Byeon Woo-seok's security firm apologizes for excessive airport measures

A security guard for actor Byeon Woo-seok directs a strong flashlight at a passengers waiting at a lounge at Incheon International Airport. Captured from X

Actor Byeon Woo-seok's security team faced a backlash for what has been described as "excessive security measures" at Incheon International Airport.

The incident, which quickly went viral online, has led to an official apology and promises of corrective action.

Byeon, popular for his lead role in the tvN series "Lovely Runner," was departing for Hong Kong for the "2024 Asia Fan Meeting Tour - Summer Letter," when the incident occurred Friday.

While using the airport lounge, some of his security personnel allegedly shone bright flashlights at ordinary travelers who happened to glance at the actor.

This excessive precaution led to widespread criticism after a video of the event surfaced on social media.

The contentious video, posted on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, has been viewed over 2 million times.

The uploader, who was at the airport lounge with family, described the experience, noting how security used powerful flashlights to deter onlookers from observing Byeon.

Among those affected was a young boy, highlighting the unnecessary severity of the security measures.

Some expressed their outrage at the security firm's tactics. Comments ranged from disbelief at the use of flashlights in a lounge to criticism of the perceived arrogance of such actions.

Responding to the uproar, the head of the security company admitted the fault and issued a public apology. "We deeply apologize for causing discomfort to the public," he said in an interview with News1. "We will conduct thorough retraining of our security personnel to ensure such an incident does not recur."

The security firm has pledged to improve its protocols, aiming to protect its clients without imposing on the general public.

Varo Entertainment, Byeon's agency, also issued an apology on Monday. "We deeply apologize for the inconvenience caused to passengers during the security process at Incheon Airport on July 12. We will ensure that such situations do not occur in the future by being more meticulous and cautious, especially to avoid inconveniencing airport users and the general public," it said in a statement. "Once again, we are sorry for the concern caused."

Byeon Woo-seok receives gifts from his fans as he leaves Incheon International Airport, Friday. Captured from X

Complaint lodged with Rights Commission

Separately, the controversy over excessive security measures taken by actor Byeon's security firm has reportedly led an online usee to lodge a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission.

An online community post titled "Byeon Woo-seok Excessive Security Controversy Filed as Human Rights Violation" drew attention.

In the post, author A said, “Byeon Woo-seok is currently embroiled in controversy over excessive security measures, including a 10-minute gate control, ticket inspection and (directing) flashlights (at other passengers). I have filed a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission through the national petition platform today, judging these actions to be human rights violations.”

Byeon is scheduled to return to Incheon International Airport on Tuesday after completing his schedule and finishing his fan meeting event in Hong Kong. Byeon concluded his Asia fan meeting tour in Hong Kong, Sunday.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by staff of The Korea Times.