Traveling from the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to the coastal charm of Busan, South Korea, opens up a world of contrasts—from tropical skyscrapers to seaside markets and stunning beaches. Whether you are journeying for business, leisure, or study, proper planning ensures a smooth and memorable trip. This flight route page provides a comprehensive guide for your Kuala Lumpur to Busan journey, covering detailed flight options, airport insights, travel alternatives, FAQs, and tips for making the most of your South Korean adventure.
Direct Flights
Currently, there are no direct (non-stop) flights operating between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and Gimhae International Airport (PUS), Busan. Passengers traveling this route will need to opt for flights with layovers, which are provided by several reputable carriers. Always consult with airlines or your preferred travel platform, such as Traveloka, for the latest schedules and flight status.
Layover Flights
Travelers from Kuala Lumpur to Busan can choose from several layover options, balancing flight time, comfort, and budget. Here are three common routes with details on airlines, aircraft, and layover information:
- Route: Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Shanghai (China) → Busan (South Korea)
- Airlines: China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines
- Total Flight Duration: 13h 55m
- Aircraft: Airbus A320, Boeing 737
- Layovers: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Shanghai, China. Layover duration: 6h 5m (overnight)
- Route: Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Incheon (South Korea) → Busan (South Korea)
- Airlines: Korean Air
- Total Flight Duration: 9h 10m
- Aircraft: Airbus A330, Airbus A220-300 Passenger
- Layovers: Incheon International Airport (ICN), Incheon, South Korea. Layover duration: 1h 15m
- Route: Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Taipei (Taiwan) → Busan (South Korea)
- Airlines: China Airlines
- Total Flight Duration: 27h 15m
- Aircraft: Airbus A330, Boeing 737
- Layovers: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Taipei, Taiwan. Layover duration: 20h 10m (overnight)
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Kuala Lumpur International Airport – Kuala Lumpur
Location
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is situated approximately 45 kilometers south of the city center, in the Sepang district of Selangor, Malaysia. The airport serves as the main international gateway to Malaysia and is easily accessible by highway, rail, and public transport.
Airport Terminal
Kuala Lumpur International Airport features two main terminals:
- Main Terminal Building (MTB): Primarily handles international and some domestic flights.
- KLIA2: The world’s largest purpose-built terminal for low-cost carriers, serving AirAsia and other regional airlines.
Both terminals are connected by a complimentary shuttle bus and the Express Rail Link (ERL), ensuring swift transfer for passengers with connecting flights.
Transport to Airport
Passengers can reach Kuala Lumpur International Airport via several transport options:
- Express Rail Link (KLIA Ekspres/KLIA Transit): Direct non-stop service from KL Sentral to the airport in under 30 minutes.
- Airport Buses: Frequent buses connect KL Sentral, Pudu Sentral, and other locations to both terminals.
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services: Fixed fare airport taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are available with designated pick-up points.
- Private Car: Ample parking and valet services are offered on-site for short and long-term stays.
Facilities
Kuala Lumpur International Airport is equipped with:
- Extensive shopping and duty-free outlets
- A broad selection of restaurants, cafes, and food courts
- Lounges, transit hotels, and capsule hotels for layovers or early departures
- Baggage services, lockers, and wrapping stations
- Prayer rooms, children’s play areas, and medical clinics
- Free WiFi, charging stations, and information desks
For more information or to book your next flight, visit Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
About Gimhae Intl – Busan
Location
Gimhae International Airport (PUS) is located in Gangseo-gu, approximately 22 kilometers west of Busan’s downtown and coastal districts. The airport serves as the main aviation hub for Busan and the southeast region of South Korea.
Airport Terminal
Gimhae International Airport has two passenger terminals:
- Domestic Terminal: Handles flights to and from South Korean destinations.
- International Terminal: Caters to international arrivals and departures, including flights from Southeast Asia, China, and Japan.
Both terminals are within walking distance of each other, making transfers convenient.
Transport From Airport
Reaching central Busan from Gimhae International Airport is quick and efficient:
- Light Rail Transit (LRT): The Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit connects the airport to Sasang Station (Green Line), with further connections to Busan Metro.
- Airport Limousine Bus: Direct buses run to major downtown locations and popular districts like Haeundae and Seomyeon.
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Readily available at the airport, with the city center reachable in 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
- Car Rentals: Rental counters are available for those preferring private transport.
Facilities
Passengers at Gimhae Intl enjoy:
- Duty-free shops and convenience stores
- Korean and international dining options
- Currency exchange, ATMs, and banking services
- Luggage storage and delivery services
- Medical assistance, pharmacies, and information desks
- Business lounges and free WiFi throughout terminals
For the latest updates on arrivals and departures, see Gimhae Intl.
FAQ Kuala Lumpur to Busan Flight
- What is the average duration for flights from Kuala Lumpur to Busan? Flights with one layover typically take between 9 and 14 hours, depending on routing and layover duration.
- Are there any direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Busan? Currently, no airlines offer direct, non-stop flights between these cities.
- Which airlines commonly serve this route? Major carriers include China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines, Korean Air, and China Airlines, among others.
- What are typical layover cities? Common layover airports are Shanghai (PVG), Incheon (ICN), and Taipei (TPE).
- How far in advance should I book to secure the best fares? Booking 1–3 months ahead of your planned travel date typically yields the best combination of availability and price.
- Is transit visa required for layovers? Many countries offer transit without visa for short layovers but always check specific visa requirements based on your itinerary and nationality.
- What are the baggage policies on this route? Baggage allowance and policies vary by airline and fare type. Review carrier terms before booking and packing.
- How far are the airports from their respective city centers? Kuala Lumpur International Airport is about 45 km from downtown KL, while Gimhae International Airport is about 22 km from central Busan.
Other Ways to Travel From Kuala Lumpur to Busan
Aside from air travel, there are currently no direct alternatives such as train or road transport due to geographical barriers—Malaysia and South Korea are separated by the South China Sea and East China Sea. However, a multi-modal journey is possible:
- Overland and Sea Routes: Travel overland by train or bus from Kuala Lumpur to Penang or Singapore, then fly to Seoul or Busan.
- Ferry from Japan: Some travelers combine regional flights (to Fukuoka or Osaka, Japan) with ferries from Japan’s southern ports to Busan. This route is lengthy and recommended only for adventurous travelers.
Total travel time by these alternatives can range from 24 to 48 hours or more, factoring in connections, border crossings, and ferry schedules.
Explore Busan
Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is a captivating mix of modernity, tradition, and seaside splendour. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
Popular Destinations in Busan
- Haeundae Beach The iconic sandy stretch, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seaside cafés.
- Gamcheon Culture Village Known as the “Santorini of Korea,” this neighborhood features colorful houses, street art, and eclectic shops.
- Jagalchi Fish Market Korea’s largest seafood market, offering fresh catches, vibrant stalls, and excellent local dining.
- Beomeosa Temple A tranquil Buddhist temple nestled in Busan’s mountains, ideal for history and culture seekers.
- Gwangalli Beach & GWANGAN Bridge Renowned for its night views, vibrant bar scene, and live performances.
Popular Cuisine in Busan
- Mil-myeon (Wheat Noodles) Busan’s take on cold noodles, topped with beef or pork broth and tangy sauces.
- Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Soup with Rice) A hearty, comforting local specialty served in many traditional restaurants.
- Fresh Grilled Eel Often found at Jagalchi Market, this dish highlights the city’s seafood prowess.
- Hotteok (Sweet Syrup-Filled Pancake) Street food favorite, crispy on the outside with a gooey sweet filling.
- Ssiat Hotteok (Seed-Stuffed Pancake) Busan’s twist on classic hotteok, filled with nuts and seeds for added crunch.
Embark on your next adventure and enjoy a seamless experience by booking your Kuala Lumpur to Busan flights on Traveloka. Whether it’s for a quick getaway or an extended exploration, this route offers diverse connections, rich cultural interactions, and unforgettable scenery.
Safe travels and happy exploring!