The controversy surrounding actor Byun Woo-seok’s “excessive security” incident last month at Incheon International Airport is believed to be linked to this information leak. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Korea Bizwire) – A thriving underground market for K-pop idols’ flight information has emerged on social media platforms, raising alarm among privacy advocates and entertainment companies alike.
On August 16, numerous posts appeared on X (formerly Twitter) offering to sell detailed flight information of popular K-pop groups. For as little as 2,000 won, buyers could obtain celebrities’ departure and arrival times, airport gates, and even seat numbers.
“This information comes from industry insiders,” claimed one seller, guaranteeing accuracy “unless the agency changes or cancels the flight.”
The illegal trade persists despite efforts by entertainment companies to crack down on the practice. Hybe, home to global sensation BTS, formed a dedicated team last year to combat the issue and filed police complaints against individuals selling such information online.
Police investigations revealed that some sellers had profited millions of won from this illicit trade.
The leaked information has led to incidents of stalking, with some fans boarding the same flights as their idols or crowding airports upon their arrival.
The controversy surrounding actor Byun Woo-seok’s “excessive security” incident last month at Incheon International Airport is believed to be linked to this information leak.
Fans who obtained his flight details in advance gathered en masse, leading to a chaotic scene and criticism of the actor’s security team.
Legal experts warn that sharing such information without consent is a criminal offense.
“Even if the information is publicly available through agency announcements or media reports, selling it for profit is likely illegal,” said Lee Sung-yup, a professor at Korea University’s Graduate School of Management of Technology.
Kim Min-ho, a law professor at Sungkyunkwan University, called for stronger government intervention.
“Relevant authorities like the Personal Information Protection Commission and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport should intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts,” he suggested.
A representative from the Personal Information Protection Commission noted that the Personal Information Protection Act prohibits the use of others’ personal information without proper authorization, and emphasized that selling others’ flight information could result in criminal penalties.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
