Enhanced ID Verification Procedures at Airports
Following a recent public discussion surrounding celebrity Jang Won-young’s airport identification check, the Korea Airports Corporation (KAC) is set to implement clearer guidelines for identity verification across all national airports. Previously, airport staff would verbally request passengers to remove masks, hats, and sunglasses for identity confirmation. Moving forward, the KAC plans to prominently display these procedures on its website and through informational signage within airports to ensure passengers are informed in advance.
Nationwide Standardization of ID Checks
The KAC is currently reviewing proposals to establish standardized identity verification methods applicable to all 14 airports it operates, including Gimpo, Gimhae, and Jeju International Airports. While a specific implementation date has not yet been determined, the corporation intends to inform passengers of the updated procedures through its homepage and on-site announcements shortly.
A KAC representative stated, “We are proceeding with the aim of applying consistent procedures across all national airports. We plan to strengthen our approach by providing advance notification regarding the need to remove items like masks, hats, and sunglasses for identity verification.”
Origin of the Public Discussion
The public conversation was sparked by footage of Jang Won-young, a member of the K-pop group IVE, departing from Gimpo International Airport for a trip to Shanghai, China, on the 30th of last month. The circulated video showed her removing her mask and lifting her hat to reveal her face for the ID check before re-adjusting them. When airport staff requested a further verification, she reportedly lowered her mask again for confirmation.
This incident led to criticisms that Jang Won-young was not compliant with the identity verification process. Concurrently, a petition was submitted through the National Petition system requesting clearer guidelines for ID checks at the international departure terminal of Gimpo Airport. The petition emphasized the need to integrate the practical operational standards of identity verification into the on-site procedures.
Legal Framework and KAC’s Stance
According to Article 15-3 of the Aviation Security Act, airport operators are obligated to verify the identity of passengers boarding aircraft. However, the act does not specify detailed criteria for the removal of accessories such as masks or hats.
It has been reported that the KAC has determined that the staff member who handled Jang Won-young’s identification check followed proper operational procedures. The KAC explained that, in accordance with the “Aviation Security Standard Procedures,” they compare the passenger’s ID photo with their actual face to confirm identity. Staff are instructed to request the removal of masks, hats, or sunglasses only when facial identification is difficult. The corporation maintains that if the face can be sufficiently recognized, the check can proceed without removing these items. This standard applies equally to both general passengers and celebrities.
A KAC official reiterated, “We have previously provided verbal instructions for identity verification procedures on-site. We will be strengthening our website and on-site announcements to ensure passengers are aware of the procedures in advance.”
