HYBE to introduce facial recognition for events

K-pop giant HYBE has sparked privacy concerns after announcing it is to introduce an optional face-scanning entry system for shows in South Korea.

The Face Pass, which will replace ticket checks, will be piloted at boy band TWS’ 42:Club fan event, which runs from 14-16 February at the Handball Gymnasium in Seoul’s Olympic Park.

The tech combines finance app Toss’ facial recognition service with the ticketing platform of Korea-based Interpark Triple. HYBE says that fans will be able to register their facial data through Interpark before the shows, with the twin benefits of speeding up the entry process while also deterring touts.

“With a one-time facial registration, fans can enter venues easily and conveniently, enhancing their overall experience,” says Kim Tae-ho, HYBE’s chief operating officer. “We aim to expand this service globally to create a comfortable environment where fans worldwide can enjoy performances seamlessly.”

“Facial data is sensitive biometric information. Entrusting it to Interpark, HYBE and Toss raises questions about how it will be processed”

Face Pass users will be able to quickly enter events through gates equipped with cameras.

Fans will also be permitted to opt out of using the technology and instead go through a separate ticket verification process at designated booths. Nevertheless, the Korea Times reports the announcement has led fans to express reservations over privacy and security.

“Facial data is sensitive biometric information. Entrusting it to Interpark, HYBE and Toss raises questions about how it will be processed,” says one user on X. “Like past leaks of resident registration numbers or phone numbers, facial data could become vulnerable to breaches. The risk of misuse is real.”

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