Private bodyguards hired to protect actor Byun Woo-seok have been fined after being found guilty of excessive security measures at Incheon International Airport.

On October 2, the Incheon District Court’s Criminal Division 6, led by Judge Shin Heung-ho, sentenced guard A and security company B to fines of 1 million KRW each for violating the Security Services Act.

The incident occurred on July 12, 2024, when Byun Woo-seok was departing for Hong Kong to attend his Asia fan meeting tour. The guards were accused of overstepping their authority by blocking certain airport gates, flashing bright lights at ordinary passengers, and even checking tickets in the lounge, sparking public criticism.

Judge Shin condemned the actions, stating: “Flashing lights at people constitutes the use of physical force and is not part of legitimate security duties. If the goal was to avoid being photographed, the client could have traveled discreetly, wearing a hat or mask, and avoiding crowded areas.”

The judge further pointed out: “Instead, the client moved openly through spaces where fans had gathered, almost as if holding a fan meeting. The security team then shone lights at bystanders who posed no apparent threat, irritating their eyes with unnecessary force.”

Despite the criticism, the court considered that this was the defendants’ first offense and that they had pledged not to repeat such actions, which influenced the sentencing.

The case has reignited debate over “overprotection culture” in K-entertainment, where excessive security sometimes inconveniences the public and damages an artist’s image rather than safeguarding them.

Sources: XportsNews