장원영/사진=헤럴드DB
장원영/사진=헤럴드DB

IVE member Jang Won-young is facing unsolicited scrutiny over her appearance, only after she followed standard airport security rules.

On Thursday, Jang arrived at Gimpo International Airport for a flight to Japan.

She showed up dressed casually in a navy baseball cap and a black face mask. When it came time for the standard identity check, she took off both her hat and mask, revealing a completely makeup-free, natural face.

Unfortunately, footage of the moment quickly went viral, prompting a wave of harsh commentary about her looks. Some netizens launched personal attacks, leaving comments like, “Did she get plastic surgery?”, “Did she get a facelift?”, and “Her face looks swollen.”

On the flip side, many fans and onlookers rushed to her defense, feeling bad for the idol. They left supportive comments like, “She’s damned if she does and damned if she doesn‘t,” “I can’t even imagine how much jealousy she has to deal with,” and “What more do people want from her?”

Jang’s strict compliance seems to be a reaction to a previous “celebrity privilege” controversy.

Back in May, while leaving for Shanghai, she was caught on camera only slightly lowering her mask while keeping her hat on during security. Critics quickly compared her to her fellow IVE members, accusing her of being uncooperative with standard procedures.

Following the backlash, the Korea Airports Corporation actually updated its official guidelines on June 20, adding a specific reminder: “To ensure accurate identity verification, please temporarily remove all masks, hats, and sunglasses.”

The incident has sparked a wider debate online, with people asking why everyday passengers face strict security while celebrities seem to get a pass.

Reported by Herald Muse Staff Writer Kim Na-yul/ Intern Writer Kim Da-young

Reviewed by Herald Muse Editor-in-Chief Kim Hae-yeon


nayul@heraldcorp.com