JYP Entertainment Faces Backlash Over Strict Identity Verification at DAY6 Fan Meeting

JYP Entertainment has come under fire for its stringent identity verification process at the recent DAY6 fan meeting, which some attendees likened to 'power abuse.' In contrast, other major entertainment companies have been found to operate these procedures more flexibly.

During the DAY6 fan meeting held from the 18th to the 20th at Jamsil Indoor Stadium, attendees criticized the requirement for excessive identification documents such as financial certificates, family relationship certificates, and school records. Although it was announced that ticket purchases by immediate and extended family members were allowed, some attendees faced entry denial, leading to online criticism of 'power abuse.' Reports also surfaced of staff sharing ID photos in group chats and denying entry based on subjective judgments of ID photo discrepancies.

In response, JYP Entertainment issued two official apologies on the 21st and 23rd. On the 21st, they stated, "The measures were intended to protect attendees, but we apologize for the inconvenience caused by inflexible operations and our failure to manage responsibly." On the 23rd, they further apologized, acknowledging issues such as unnecessary personal information requests and sharing during the entry management process.

Other entertainment companies, such as YG Entertainment and SM Entertainment, implement similar identity verification processes but with notable differences. They apply these checks only to 'on-site ticket recipients,' allowing those with mobile or pre-delivered tickets to enter without additional verification. On-site ticket collection requires ID verification, but excessive information is not demanded. Typically, a quick ID check suffices if the names match, without scrutinizing ID photos or requesting school records.

HYBE offers a more flexible yet secure verification system with its dual approach of 'Face Pass' and 'In-Pass.' The Face Pass allows attendees to register their facial information in an encrypted format through 'NOL Ticket' during ticket purchase, enabling entry via facial recognition without an ID. This technology, also used in Incheon International Airport's Smart Pass system, prevents unauthorized registration by making it difficult to alter uploaded facial data.

In contrast, the In-Pass is for those who haven't registered for Face Pass, requiring ID and ticket confirmation at on-site booths, similar to other companies' methods.

While all four major entertainment companies conduct identity verification to combat ticket scalping, the issue lies in the inconsistent and excessive measures that infringe on attendees' rights, as highlighted by fans. A concert industry insider warned, "While minimal verification is necessary to curb illegal ticket sales, excessive checks can inconvenience attendees and lead to new loopholes."