Busan: An airport in the southern port city of Busan stepped up security as world leaders were set to arrive for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit this week. Police deployed armored vehicles at Gimhae International Airport and were seen frequently conducting patrols around the area this day.
According to Yonhap News Agency, security measures are likely to be further strengthened from Wednesday, when world leaders attending the APEC gathering, including U.S. President Donald Trump, are expected to begin arriving. Attention is focused on whether the airport will serve as the venue for a summit meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping as Trump departs and Xi arrives at South Korea on Thursday.
The Air Force recently completed renovating Naraemaru, a reception hall inside the airport where foreign delegations are first received upon their arrival. Earlier in the day, the airport raised its aviation security level from "caution" to "alert." Screening procedures for passengers were also tightened, causing long lines and congestion as they were required to remove their shoes and outerwear for inspections.
Starting at midnight, the area around the airport will be designated as a no-fly zone. During the APEC period, all aircraft, including drones, will be banned from flying with the exception of scheduled passenger flights, operations for emergency rescue and disaster relief, and military or police aircraft. Meanwhile, the airport welcomed foreigners and APEC participants in a festive mood, with staff members dressed in Korean traditional dress "hanbok" and carrying colorful lanterns. Some staff members were dressed as characters from the animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" and guided travelers to promotional booths.