Byeon Woo Seok security controversy: Incheon Airport files complaint over “excessive security” measures

According to a report by The Korea Times, The Incheon Police Agency disclosed that the head of a private security firm and an associate are currently being prosecuted for their involvement in an overzealous security operation at Incheon International Airport for actor Byeon Woo Seok, who is best known for POTR Ryu Sun Jae in the K-drama Lovely Runner. The allegations are related to a July incident in which the private security team reportedly disrupted other passengers and caused a disturbance while escorting the 33-year-old actor, going beyond the law.

The case came into the spotlight when Byeon Woo Seok was leaving for his first fan meeting tour, Summer Letter, in Hong Kong on July 12. A man in his 40s who led the private security company and his staff were charged with taking drastic steps to protect the actor.

According to reports, the actions included obstructing gates, illuminating travelers with bright lights, and even making an effort to verify boarding tickets and limit entry to the airport lounge. According to authorities, these activities breached established security work norms and other passengers’ rights and freedoms.

The head of the security firm, two of his company’s guards, and a freelance guard were the first four people charged in relation to the incident. However, just two people including the firm’s head were eventually turned over to the prosecution for breaking the Security Services Industry Act after a legal examination.

A police official reportedly offered additional commentary on the matter, stating that they will not relent from taking strong action against illicit acts by private security companies that endanger the security of travelers at airports. The case has spurred wider debates about the duties and boundaries of public figures’ private security operations in public areas.