[2025 Audit] Excessive Celebrity Airport Security Criticized... Ministry of Culture Vows "Stronger Oversight"

Choi Hwiyoung, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, is speaking at the National Assembly's Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee audit held on the 14th in Yeouido, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News

During the National Assembly audit, concerns were raised about the lack of oversight by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism regarding excessive responses and violent behavior that occur during celebrity airport security operations.

On October 14, Assemblyman Min Hyungbae of the Democratic Party of Korea pointed out at the National Assembly's Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee audit, "Some security guards repeatedly engage in violent acts, aggressively restraining female fans in their teens and twenties," and criticized, "The Ministry, which should oversee and supervise entertainment agencies, is not even aware of the actual situation."

In a security service contract disclosed by Assemblyman Min on this day, there was a clause stating, "Actions such as shielding the artist with tools like umbrellas or shining flashes or lasers at fans may be carried out at the discretion of the on-site manager."

In response, Choi Hwiyoung, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said, "We are aware of the situation and have already sent an official letter requesting cooperation to the agencies," adding, "We will strengthen relevant measures."

Assemblyman Min criticized, "The Ministry is not even properly grasping the situation," and cited the 'Purple Line' campaign, which was spontaneously organized by fans when BTS arrived at overseas airports, as an example. He emphasized, "As K-culture expands globally, excessive security must not be neglected," and stressed, "We must prevent unnecessary controversies from arising."

He also urged, "In countries like France, private security guidelines are specified in national safety laws. The Ministry should investigate the domestic situation and establish guidelines for security management and supervision." In response, Minister Choi stated, "We will work to establish the relevant guidelines."