Seoul airport ‘suicide flight’ threat sparks police manhunt in South Korea

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by SCMP’s Asia deskJanuary 20, 2026 at 09:22 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

South Korean police are searching for an individual who posted an anonymous online threat of a "suicide flight" over Seoul's Gimpo International Airport. The post, which has since been deleted, claimed the author was a commercial pilot and expressed anger over the merger between Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, finalized in 2024. The message also mentioned a stabbing, leading authorities to heighten security at the airport. Police and aviation officials are working to verify the poster's identity and investigate the threat. The merger of the two airlines is currently underway, involving the integration of staff, routes, and branding.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Incheon International Airport 40% Korea Airports Corporation 50% Asiana Airlines ×270% Korean Air 70% Gimpo International Airport 70% Seoul ×280% South Korea ×290%

Keywords

suicide flight 100% airport security 80% police manhunt 70% airline merger 70% asiana airlines 60% korean air 60% threat 50% gimpo international airport 50% seoul 40%