A video circulating online shows passengers rushing check-in counters at Incheon International Airport. [Online community]
A video circulating online shows passengers rushing check-in counters at Incheon International Airport. [Online community]

Chinese passengers have repeatedly cut in line en masse at the departure hall of Incheon International Airport, prompting airport authorities to monitor the situation closely.

According to Yonhap and Incheon International Airport Corp., dozens of Chinese travelers were caught on camera rushing toward check-in counters at the departure hall on the third floor of Terminal 1 in the early hours of July 2. The passengers bypassed the queuing lanes, crouching low and pushing their luggage carts under the barrier ropes.

The footage spread on SNS and sparked debate, with some questioning its authenticity. Airport authorities believe the incident occurred when Chinese "daigou" traders and other passengers scrambled to reach the counters the moment they opened, eager to check in ahead of the crowd.

The surge in line-cutting incidents is being attributed to a sharp rise in passenger demand during peak hours. Incheon–China routes have recently switched aircraft from the Airbus A320 to the A350, adding roughly 100 seats per flight — a change that has drawn larger crowds and intensified competition for queue positions.

Meanwhile, Incheon airport has also recently drawn attention over long-term occupants monopolizing passenger seating and power outlets, and using restrooms to do laundry and shower, effectively treating public facilities as private space.


andy@heraldcorp.com