Necessary or excessive?: Debate over K-pop security at airports

Bodyguards clad in black security vests are a familiar sight at airports in South Korea, often accompanying celebrities through large crowds of fans who sometimes get too close or behave in an unruly manner.

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SEOUL - Bodyguards clad in black security vests are a familiar sight at airports in South Korea, often accompanying celebrities through large crowds of fans who sometimes get too close or behave in an unruly manner. But the actions of some security guards and managers have sparked debate over the use of excessive force.

Last week, a video of K-pop boy group Zerobaseone's manager pushing fans at an airport and appearing to raise his fist circulated on social media platform X.

In the video, he is heard shouting, "move out of the way", which is followed by a loud thud, suggesting that someone may have been pushed or the camera was struck.

While some view the security measures for celebrities as excessive, airport security escorts for idols are necessary due to safety concerns, said industry insiders.