Seo Dong-shin
Staff Reporter

Be wary of anyone who spends too long in the toilet during flights bound for the Athens Olympic Games _ they could be a terrorist, according to a security handbook released Sunday by the national spy agency.

In the 18-leaf handbook entitled ``What You Must Know About Terrorist Attacks _ 2004 Athens Olympic Games: Glee, Glory and Security,’’ the National Intelligence Service (NIS) issued guidelines for South Koreans heading to Greece.

As well as anti-terror measures, the book includes advice on how to approach Greek people and North Korean athletes competing in the event.

Athletes and tourists who visit Greece are urged to refuse any favors by strangers, while the NIS says passengers at airports should ``absolutely refuse’’ any requests from strangers to hold baggage, a method frequently used by terrorists to smuggle bombs onto airplanes.

Anyone who appears to drop their belongings is also suspect, the book says, adding that such behavior should be closely watched and reported to security officials immediately.

Those wearing masks, caps, or sunglasses deserve special attention too, as terrorist suspects tend to hide their features. Anyone sweating under unseasonably thick clothes also needs to be monitored.

In the streets and stadiums, visitors are especially advised to avoid taking food or drinks offered by friendly strangers. Athletes are recommended to stay away from any public places at all, including foreign hotels, banks or restaurants. If someone knocks on the door in hotel rooms, be sure to call the front desk or relevant bodies to check his or her identity, the book further advises.

The NIS also explains how to speak or act properly toward North Korean athletes at the end of the book. Although it is recommended to greet each other and have a conversation naturally, subjects like politics or ideologies need to be avoided. The book also recommends readers to refrain from commenting on North Korean leaders in any offensive way or criticizing systems and the economic situation.

saltwall@koreatimes.co.kr