Four Security Officials Booked Over Excessive Measures in Byeon Woo-seok's Airport Incident

Aug 16, 2024

Four Security Officials Booked Over Excessive Measures in Byeon Woo-seok's Airport Incident



Four officials, including the head of a private security company, have been criminally booked by the police following controversy over the excessive security measures provided for actor Byeon Woo-seok.

According to Yonhap News on the 16th, the Incheon International Airport Police Corps has booked, without detention, the head of Security Company A, two bodyguards, and a freelance bodyguard on charges of violating the Security Business Act.

The controversy arose on July 12th when Byeon Woo-seok departed from Incheon International Airport for a fan meeting in Hong Kong. The security team was accused of "excessive security" for actions that included blocking access to the departure gate, using flashlights, checking boarding tickets, and restricting access to the airport lounge, actions that prevented the general public from using the facilities.



Under the Security Business Act, security operators are prohibited from infringing upon the freedoms and rights of others or interfering with legitimate activities while performing security duties. Additionally, security personnel are not allowed to perform tasks beyond those permitted by law.

The police are currently investigating whether additional charges, such as coercion or obstruction of business, should be brought against the four individuals involved.
Four Security Officials Booked Over Excessive Measures in Byeon Woo-seok's Airport Incident
In response to this incident, Rep. Kim Young-bae of the Democratic Party of Korea has proposed a bill to amend the Airport Facilities Act. This proposed "Byeon Woo-seok Prevention Act" aims to prevent private security companies from obstructing airport users' access or passage without authorization from the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.



"The current Airport Facilities Act lacks provisions to prevent private security guards from interfering with the use of airport facilities by the public," Rep. Kim stated. "As airports are public spaces utilized by many, their use should not be restricted without legitimate authority."

 




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