A heated debate over K-pop idols using public airports has erupted after a video of a man shouting and swearing at a rookie girl group went viral.
On March 29, a man lost his temper at Seoul’s Gimpo International Airport, cursing loudly as SM Entertainment’s new girl group Hearts2Hearts walked through the departure gate for their Japan schedule.
In the video, fans, reporters, and security staff swarmed around the group, with camera flashes going off and fans shouting the members’ names. Frustrated by the chaos, the man angrily yelled and swore, causing a scene.
As the video spread online, many recalled a similar controversy last year involving actor Byeon Woo Seok’s excessive security at Incheon Airport, reigniting debates about celebrities’ airport usage.
Some netizens sided with the man, saying, “Blocking an airport for a photo shoot is ridiculous,” and “Are celebrities above the law?” Others found it odd that the idols kept smiling despite the commotion, calling it “unnatural.”
Meanwhile, others defended the group, blaming the agency and fans instead. One commenter said, “A rookie group has no control over this. It’s the company’s fault.”
Criticism of K-pop’s airport culture also grew, with some accusing entertainment agencies of leaking flight details to gather fans for publicity. Some suggested creating a “fast-track” lane for celebrities, while others opposed giving them special treatment.
Last year, Incheon Airport even considered charging celebrities for private entry after the Byeon Woo Seok incident but abandoned the idea due to backlash.
Source: [1]
