Incheon airport tells homeless people sheltering from heat to leave

Incheon International Airport has instructed homeless individuals escaping the intense heatwave to vacate the terminals. A human rights organization has called for an end to these evictions, deeming them hasty and procedurally incorrect. On July 30, airport staff began affixing notices to the property of the homeless, stating that sleeping or staying in airport facilities is strictly forbidden under the Airport Facilities Act, and demanding their immediate departure from the passenger terminals.

Violation of these instructions could result in fines, detention, and other penalties, as well as liability for any damages incurred. In response, Homeless Action released a statement on August 3, contending that the notices contravene the legally mandated grace period mandated by the Framework Act on Public Administration, and urging an immediate cessation of the removal of vulnerable people from what remains one of their primary public refuges.

The airport operator is obligated to ensure the necessary protection of homeless people in collaboration with local governments.