National audit cites ongoing illicit sale of idol flight data; lawmakers point to social media posts and 1,000-won purchases

The national audit highlighted that trading of flight information related to celebrities persists, noting it fuels confusion around celebrity departures and advising airports, including Incheon International, to respond more actively. The audit underscored that actions at airports should be taken to reduce such disruptions in celebrity travel.

On the 27th, a Democratic Party lawmaker told the National Assembly’s National Transportation Committee that flight information is being traded illegally, adding that they purchased an idol’s flight information for 1,000 won and that the corresponding group departed at that time. He also said that one-way information costs about 500 won and round-trips about 1,000 won, and that while reports of such trades dated back to 2017 at roughly 30,000 won, prices have fallen and trading has become more active.

Photos released by the lawmaker’s office show social-media posts about “Seventeen flight information for sale” and “BTS V flight information” requesting contact via SNS. The office also disclosed that information for the group Rise was purchased via KakaoTalk for 1,000 won.

The lawmaker argued that this indicates a norm or rule in the idol industry that should not be allowed, suggesting it could be punishable under the petty offense of advertising material posted without authorization.

Lee Hak-jae, president of Incheon International Airport Corporation, said there is “no such information” about flight-data sales and that the origin is likely through another channel; he pledged to trace the source and eradicate the practice through police and legal channels. He also commented on the privatization of airport facilities, noting that personal belongings complicate enforcement and that police and legal review would be undertaken to address it.

Yoon Jae-ok of the People Power Party pointed out that since July of last year through August this year, nine celebrities departed, but only four submitted airport-use plans; five cases involved no submission, even though up to about 300 people could be gathered, and one departure date could not be determined. He urged the establishment of effective measures so that ordinary passengers are not harmed as a result.