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 bel.