"State Visit or Presidential-Level Security? Controversy Over 'Ganggangsullae-Style' Celebrity Airport Security"

“Even the Presidential Security Service Would Be Envious”: Netizens Criticize Excessive Measures
Recurring Chaos at Airports Sparks Concerns Over Systemic Issues

An excessive security controversy has arisen after the so-called "Ganggangsullae-style" security method was observed during the airport transfer process of idol group Hats to Hats. As public opinion remains divided, the government has also responded to the repeatedly occurring airport congestion issues.

On March 19, Yonhap News TV reported that another controversy over excessive security had erupted as a video titled "Idol Airport Security" was shared on social media the previous day. The video showed Hats to Hats members entering Incheon International Airport while being surrounded by security guards forming a circle. More than ten security personnel moved while holding hands, a method referred to as "Ganggangsullae Security," which drew significant attention.

An excessive security controversy has arisen as the so-called "Ganggangsullae-style" security method was caught during the airport transfer process of idol group Hats to Hats. Screenshot from SNS

"Controlling Sasaeng Fans and Crowds vs. Inconvenience to Regular Passengers" - Conflicting Views Among Netizens

The scene quickly sparked criticism online. Some netizens pointed out the excessive security measures with reactions such as, "Even the Presidential Security Service would be impressed," "Why block the airport?" and "Isn't this acting like a state visit?" In particular, some questioned whether this security method was inefficient in responding to unexpected situations, raising doubts about the effectiveness of holding hands in a circle to block intruders or defend against thrown objects.

The scene quickly sparked criticism online. Some netizens reacted by saying, "Even the Presidential Security Service would be impressed," "Why block the airport?" and "Isn't this acting like a state visit?" pointing out the excessive security measures. SNS

On the other hand, there was no shortage of supportive opinions. Some netizens commented, "The issue lies with fan culture," "Because of sasaeng fans, there is no other choice," and "Blaming the idol is excessive." In reality, airports have repeatedly faced difficulties in controlling crowds as large numbers of fans and photographers gather to see idols. This controversy is drawing even more attention as it is seen as more than just a minor incident.

Hats to Hats has faced criticism multiple times in the past due to airport security issues. In March last year, a crowd at Gimpo Airport’s departure area caused inconvenience to regular passengers. In June of the same year, a controversy arose after footage spread showing a security guard pushing a fan. More recently, an incident occurred where a security guard mistook a member for a fan and pushed them.

Government Launches Measures on Excessive Security at Airports

Controversy over celebrity airport security has occurred in other cases as well. Around July 2024, actor Byun Woo-seok’s private security guard directed a flashlight at regular passengers and photographed their faces and boarding passes in the Incheon Airport lounge, sparking accusations of excessive security.

With congestion and clashes during celebrity departures becoming a recurring issue, the government has also stepped in. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has formed a consultative body with the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, the Ministry of Justice, the Personal Information Protection Commission, Korea Airports Corporation, and Incheon International Airport Corporation. They have begun a research project to develop "safety management measures for large crowds when celebrities use airports."

Hearts to Hearts has been under scrutiny multiple times in the past due to airport security issues. In March last year, there was a crowd at the departure area of Gimpo Airport, causing inconvenience to regular passengers. Screenshot from SNS

This research will last about 90 days and will include plans to improve regulations to reduce congestion and safety problems during celebrity movements. These measures come in response to the continuing "imperial security" controversies and ongoing inconveniences to regular passengers. Currently, airport authorities require agencies and security firms to submit pre-departure plans for celebrities, but fans often obtain information through various channels and gather in advance, making congestion difficult to control. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport stated, "Since regular passengers are being affected during celebrity security operations, we will prepare fundamental improvement measures." As airport security controversies recur, discussions are expected to intensify on how to strike a balance between celebrity safety and maintaining order in public spaces.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.