Backup Batteries and E-cigarettes Must Be Carried On; Check Prohibited Carry-on Items Before Summer Travel

Backup Batteries, E-Cigarettes Must Be Hand-Carried
Knives, Scissors, and Large Liquid Containers Require Check-In
Kakao Chatbot 'Ask Security' Service Available

In preparation for the summer vacation season, Korea Airports Corporation has urged airline passengers to check items prohibited from being carried on board in advance.

Gimpo Airport Domestic Terminal Departure Hall. Korea Airports Corporation

The corporation emphasized on July 28 that prior preparation is essential, noting that if prohibited items are discovered during security screening, check-in delays and flight departure disruptions could occur.

Backup batteries that pose a fire risk, electronic cigarettes, and lighters cannot be checked in as hold baggage and must be carried by the passenger. Passengers may carry only one lighter and up to two backup batteries per person in the cabin, provided each battery is no more than 160Wh. Backup batteries must be stored in insulation tape or protective pouches to prevent terminals from contacting metals. Charging or storing batteries in the overhead compartment during the flight is prohibited.

Sharp items such as knives and scissors must be placed in checked baggage. For international flights, liquids like cosmetics, beverages, and kimchi are only allowed in the cabin if contained in containers of 100 ml or less, with a total limit of 1 liter per passenger. Any single container exceeding 100 ml must be placed in checked baggage, regardless of the amount inside. Security threat items such as firearms, ammunition, explosives, and swords are strictly prohibited both in the cabin and as checked baggage. Possession or attempted import of such items may result in criminal prosecution under the Aviation Security Act.

Korea Airports Corporation currently offers guidance services on permissible items via the KakaoTalk chatbot ‘Ask Security’ and the ‘Aviation Security 365’ website. Related information is also promoted through digital information displays (DID) throughout the airport.

Park Jaehee, Acting President of Korea Airports Corporation, stated, "A safe and enjoyable trip begins from the moment you pack your luggage before arriving at the airport," adding, "During the summer travel season, we will strengthen guidance and publicity related to prohibited carry-on items in collaboration with relevant agencies to minimize airport congestion and ensure passengers can use the airport more quickly and safely."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.