Footage circulating online shows ENHYPEN member SUNGHOON mobbed by a small group of fans during his return to Korea, creating chaotic scenes that left fellow airport users visibly inconvenienced.
In videos shared widely on social media, fans can be seen sprinting after SUNGHOON the moment he arrived at Incheon International Airport, with some even getting into a physical scuffle with one another. The behavior has sparked fresh debate about safety and etiquette around celebrity travel.
SUNGHOON flew into Terminal 1 on January 11 after finishing a personal schedule in Shanghai. As he moved quickly toward the exit, three to four female fans were caught on camera running after him. The crowding escalated near an elevator, where fans reportedly jostled and shoved in an attempt to board with him.
Adding to the concern, the elevator was also carrying what appeared to be regular passengers. While fans clashed, both SUNGHOON and uninvolved travelers were forced to endure the disruption in close quarters.
According to the viral clips, there was no visible security detail on site―only a female staffer accompanying the artist―which critics say contributed to the lack of crowd control as some fans closed in to film from up close. The incident has reignited questions about safety management inside airports as the videos rack up views across platforms.
It’s not the first time airport protocols around celebrities have come under fire. Last year, actor Byeon Woo-seok drew backlash over a so-called “imperial-level” security detail, prompting a wider public debate over restricting general passengers and checking IDs during star movements―and, ultimately, calls to improve overall order at airports.
In response to mounting concerns, Incheon International Airport Corporation announced measures last September aimed at easing congestion and safety risks tied to celebrity arrivals and departures. The airport said it would ask artists and their agencies to submit an “airport use plan” in advance and would reinforce guidelines to ensure all protection efforts comply with airport regulations and safety rules.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)