About Korean Air

Korean Air is South Korea's national carrier, operating under the IATA code KE and ICAO code KAL. Headquartered in Seoul, the airline was founded on 1 March 1969 when the Hanjin Group acquired the previously state-owned Korean National Airlines. Today, Korean Air is one of the largest airlines in Asia and a founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, connecting passengers to more than 120 destinations across Asia, the Americas, Europe, Oceania, and the Middle East.

Korean Air is a premium full-service carrier offering three cabin classes — Economy, Prestige (Business), and First — with complimentary meals, generous baggage allowances, and in-flight entertainment on all long-haul flights. Its main hub, Incheon International Airport (ICN), is consistently ranked among the world's best airports. In December 2024, Korean Air completed its acquisition of Asiana Airlines in a deal worth approximately USD 1.3 billion, and the two carriers are now working through a full brand and operational integration, targeted for completion by December 2026, which will make the combined airline one of the largest in Asia by international capacity. For travellers in Singapore, Korean Air is a well-established route to Seoul and beyond, popular with K-pop and K-drama fans, business travellers, and anyone connecting onward through Incheon to Northeast Asia, North America, and Europe.

Airline Overview and History

Korean Air has grown from a small regional carrier into one of the world's leading full-service airlines over more than five decades of operation. Key milestones in its history include:

• 1946 — Korean National Airlines is established as South Korea's first airline.
• 1962 — The South Korean government acquires Korean National Airlines and renames it Korean Air Lines.
• 1 March 1969 — The Hanjin Group acquires and privatises the airline, marking the birth of the modern Korean Air.
• 1971 — Trans-Pacific cargo operations begin, expanding the airline's global freight network.
• 1972 — Passenger service to Los Angeles launches, marking its first long-haul route.
• 1973 — The Boeing 747 is introduced for long-haul operations.
• 1975 — Korean Air becomes one of the first Asian carriers to operate Airbus aircraft with the Airbus A300.
• 22 June 2000 — Korean Air co-founds the SkyTeam alliance alongside Air France, Delta Air Lines, and Aeromexico.
• 2004 — The airline's main international hub moves to the newly opened Incheon International Airport.
• 2011 — Korean Air receives its first Airbus A380-800, deployed on high-demand routes to the United States.
• 2017 — The first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is delivered.
• 12 December 2024 — Korean Air completes its acquisition of Asiana Airlines after regulatory approval from 14 jurisdictions.
• 2025-2026 — Korean Air rolls out a new logo and livery to mark the merger integration, and continues consolidating Asiana's operations, with the Asiana brand set to be fully retired by December 2026 as the two carriers merge under a single operating certificate.

Korean Air's main hub, Incheon International Airport (ICN), sits roughly 70 kilometres west of Seoul. Incheon is a world-class aviation hub with excellent facilities including duty-free shopping, transit hotels, cultural experience centres, and seamless rail connections to Seoul via the Airport Railroad Express (AREX). It is consistently ranked among the world's best airports for service quality, making it an excellent transit point for Singapore travellers heading onward to Northeast Asia, the Americas, or Europe.

Fleet and Aircraft

Korean Air operates one of the most modern and diverse fleets among Asian carriers, spanning narrow-body and wide-body aircraft suited to both short regional hops and ultra-long-haul intercontinental service. The fleet includes:

• Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner — A fuel-efficient wide-body aircraft used on medium- and long-haul routes across Asia, Europe, and Oceania, fitted with Korean Air's latest cabin products.
• Boeing 777-300ER — The airline's long-haul workhorse, deployed on high-demand routes to North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
• Boeing 747-8i — An iconic four-engine jumbo operated on select premium routes; Korean Air is one of the last airlines in the world still flying this type for passengers.
• Airbus A380-800 — The world's largest passenger aircraft, used on ultra-high-capacity routes including services to the United States.
• Airbus A321neo — A modern narrow-body used on short- to medium-haul routes within Asia.
• Airbus A220-300 — An efficient narrow-body used on regional routes within Northeast Asia and Japan.
• Boeing 737-MAX — Deployed on domestic South Korean routes and short regional sectors.

In August 2025, Korean Air placed the largest single aircraft order in its history with Boeing, covering 103 aircraft including 50 Boeing 737 MAX 10, 25 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, 20 Boeing 777X wide-bodies, and 8 Boeing 777-8F freighters — an order that signals an ambitious fleet modernisation plan as the airline integrates Asiana's operations. Korean Air maintains its fleet to the highest international safety standards at its Korean Air Maintenance and Engineering facilities in Incheon, and holds a 7-star safety rating from AirlineRatings.com.

Top Flight Routes

Korean Air connects Singapore to South Korea and onward destinations through its extensive global network. The most popular route for Singapore travellers is the direct service between Singapore Changi and Seoul Incheon. Key routes bookable on Traveloka include:

Direct Route from Singapore

• Singapore to Seoul (Incheon) — The main direct route linking Singapore to South Korea, popular for leisure travel, business trips, K-pop and K-drama fans, and students. Flight time is approximately 6.5 hours.

Popular Connections via Seoul

From Seoul Incheon, Korean Air offers connections to destinations throughout Northeast Asia, the Americas, Europe, and beyond. Singapore travellers can connect conveniently through Incheon to cities worldwide.

Other Popular Routes from Singapore

If you're exploring other travel options from Singapore, Traveloka also features these popular international routes:

• Singapore to Tokyo — A gateway to Japan for culture, food, and shopping.
• Singapore to Bangkok — A popular leisure and business destination in Thailand.
• Singapore to Kuala Lumpur — A quick regional hop to Malaysia.

Search Korean Air flights on Traveloka to find the latest schedules, availability, and fares for your preferred destination.

Baggage Allowance and Policies

As a full-service carrier, Korean Air offers generous baggage allowances. Understanding the rules before you fly will help you pack efficiently and avoid unexpected charges at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage

• Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag plus 1 personal item — combined weight up to 12 kg. Maximum dimensions per bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (including wheels and handles).
• Prestige Class (Business): 2 carry-on bags plus 1 personal item — combined weight up to 18 kg. Maximum dimensions per bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
• First Class: 2 carry-on bags plus 1 personal item — combined weight up to 18 kg. Maximum dimensions per bag: 55 x 40 x 20 cm.

Personal items include handbags, laptop bags, briefcases, or small backpacks. Items exceeding the carry-on weight or size limits must be checked in at the counter.

Checked Baggage

Free checked baggage allowances vary by cabin class and route:

• Economy Class: 1 piece up to 23 kg on most international routes (2 pieces up to 23 kg each on flights to/from the Americas).
• Prestige Class (Business): 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg.
• First Class: 3 pieces, each up to 32 kg.

Maximum dimensions per checked bag must not exceed 158 cm (length + width + height). Bags exceeding 32 kg per piece are not accepted due to airport handling safety regulations and must be split into separate pieces.

Excess Baggage Fees

Excess baggage fees are calculated per piece and vary by route and country of departure. Overweight charges apply to bags weighing between 24 kg and 32 kg. The most cost-effective option is to purchase extra baggage allowance in advance when booking on Traveloka, rather than paying at the airport counter.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Korean Air follows international aviation security regulations. Key restrictions include:

• Flammable materials, explosives, and compressed gases are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.
• Sharp objects such as knives and scissors (blades over 6 cm) must be placed in checked baggage only.
• Lithium batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only.
• Liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on baggage must comply with the 100 ml rule and be placed in a resealable, transparent bag.

SKYPASS Member Baggage Benefits

Members of Korean Air's SKYPASS frequent flyer programme enjoy additional baggage benefits. Morning Calm Club members and higher tiers may receive one additional free checked bag on eligible routes.

Check-in Guide

Airport Counter Check-in

Korean Air offers airport counter check-in at all departure airports. Recommended arrival times are:

• International flights: At least 3 hours before departure.
• Domestic flights within South Korea: At least 1 hour before departure.

Counter check-in usually closes 40 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 1 hour before departure for international flights. Passengers are strongly advised to arrive early during peak travel seasons such as Korean holidays (Chuseok, Seollal), school holidays, and the year-end period.

Online Check-in

Korean Air offers online check-in through its official website and mobile app:

• Opens: 48 hours before scheduled departure (24 hours for flights to/from Canada and the United States).
• Closes: 1 hour before departure for international flights, 40 minutes for domestic flights.

After completing online check-in, passengers with checked baggage can head straight to the bag-drop counter, while those travelling with carry-on only can proceed directly to security and the departure gate.

Self-Service Kiosk Check-in

Self-service kiosks are available at major airports served by Korean Air, including Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport. Passengers can print boarding passes, select seats, and add baggage at these kiosks.

Auto Check-in

Korean Air also offers an automatic check-in service. Passengers who opt in are automatically checked in 24 hours before departure and receive their boarding pass by email or through the Korean Air app, making the process entirely hassle-free.

Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience

Korean Air offers three distinct cabin classes, each designed to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience suited to different passenger needs and budgets.

Economy Class

Korean Air's Economy Class delivers a comfortable experience with generous legroom compared to many competitors. Features include:

• Ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests and personal reading lights.
• A complimentary choice of Korean and Western meals on international flights, prepared by Korean Air's own in-flight catering team.
• Personal in-flight entertainment (IFE) screens with hundreds of movies, TV shows, music, and games.
• Complimentary beverages including soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee, and alcoholic drinks on international flights.
• USB charging ports and power outlets on most aircraft types.
• Blankets and pillows provided on long-haul flights.

Prestige Class (Business)

Korean Air's Prestige Class offers a premium travel experience with the following features:

• Lie-flat or angled-flat seats (depending on aircraft type) with direct aisle access on most wide-body aircraft.
• An enhanced dining service featuring premium Korean dishes such as bibimbap, paired with a curated wine and spirits selection.
• Priority check-in, priority boarding, and priority baggage handling.
• Access to Korean Air's Prestige Class lounges at Incheon and other major airports worldwide.
• Amenity kits with skincare products and comfort essentials.
• Larger personal IFE screens with noise-cancelling headphones.

First Class

Korean Air's First Class, available on select aircraft including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777-300ER, delivers the airline's most premium experience:

• Private suites with closing doors on the A380, offering maximum privacy and comfort.
• A multi-course fine-dining experience with dishes prepared by leading Korean chefs, served on premium tableware.
• Access to exclusive lounges at Incheon, including the Korean Air First Class Lounge.
• Chauffeur-driven transfer service at select airports.
• Premium amenity kits and luxury bedding.

In-Flight Meals

Korean Air provides complimentary meals on all international flights across every cabin class. Economy Class passengers can choose between Korean and Western meal options. Prestige Class passengers enjoy an enhanced dining experience featuring signature Korean dishes such as bibimbap, while First Class passengers receive a multi-course fine-dining experience. Special meals including halal, vegetarian, kosher, and allergy-specific options are available on request when booking in advance — a useful option for Muslim travellers from Singapore, who can request a halal meal at least 24 hours before departure.

In-Flight Entertainment and Wi-Fi

Korean Air's in-flight entertainment system offers a comprehensive content selection across all cabin classes on wide-body aircraft:

• Personal seatback screens ranging from 10 inches (Economy) to 24 inches (First Class).
• Hundreds of movies, TV series, music albums, podcasts, and interactive games.
• Content available in multiple languages including English, Korean, Mandarin, and Japanese.
• Wi-Fi connectivity available on select aircraft (Boeing 787-9, Boeing 777-300ER, and other equipped aircraft) for an additional fee.

Passenger Policies and Special Services

Travelling with Children and Infants

• Children (2-11 years): Must have their own seat and ticket. Child fares may be available on select routes and fare classes. Must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger (18 years or older).
• Infants (under 2 years): May travel on an accompanying adult's lap at a reduced infant fare. Each adult may travel with only one infant. Bassinets are available on long-haul flights upon advance request, subject to availability.
• Documents required: A valid passport for all child and infant passengers on international flights. A birth certificate may be required to verify age.
• Strollers and car seats can be checked in at the boarding gate free of charge on most routes.

Pregnant Passengers

• Passengers up to 32 weeks of a single pregnancy can travel without a medical certificate on flights under 2 hours.
• Passengers between 32 and 36 weeks on longer flights may require a medical certificate issued within 72 hours of departure confirming fitness to fly.
• Passengers from 37 weeks of pregnancy onward are not accepted for travel.
• For twin or multiple pregnancies, restrictions may apply earlier — contact the airline for specific guidance.

Passengers Requiring Special Assistance

Korean Air is committed to providing accessible travel for all passengers. Available special assistance services include:

• Wheelchair assistance at the airport — from check-in through to boarding and disembarkation.
• Onboard wheelchairs available for movement within the aircraft cabin.
• Priority boarding and designated seating for passengers with limited mobility.
• Assistance for passengers with visual or hearing impairments.
• Acceptance of portable oxygen concentrators (POC) and other medical equipment onboard with advance notice.
• Service animals accepted onboard in accordance with applicable regulations.

Passengers requiring special assistance should notify Traveloka or Korean Air at least 48 hours before departure to ensure proper arrangements.

Unaccompanied Minors

• Children aged 5-11: Eligible for the Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service on both domestic and international flights. A fee applies for this service.
• Young travellers aged 12-16: May travel alone but can optionally use the UM service at a parent or guardian's request.

Parents or guardians must complete the required UM documentation and ensure a responsible adult is designated to collect the child at the arrival airport. Contact Korean Air directly to confirm eligibility, procedures, and fees for your specific route.

Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy

Rescheduling Your Flight

To reschedule a Korean Air flight booked through Traveloka:

1. Open the Traveloka app or website and navigate to My Bookings.
2. Select the Korean Air booking you want to change.
3. Tap the reschedule option and browse available alternative flights.
4. Choose your preferred new flight and confirm the change.
5. Pay the applicable reschedule fee or fare difference.

Reschedule fees and conditions depend on the fare type purchased. Flexible fare classes generally allow changes for a lower fee or free of charge, while promotional and discounted fares may have stricter modification policies.

Cancellations and Refunds

Refund eligibility depends on the fare type and ticket conditions:

• Fully refundable fares (Flex/Full Fare): Cancel and receive a full refund to your original payment method.
• Partially refundable fares: Cancellation fees are deducted from the refund amount.
• Non-refundable promotional fares: Generally not eligible for a cash refund but may be converted into a travel credit or airline voucher for future use.

To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on Traveloka and follow the guided cancellation process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 business days depending on the payment method.

Airline-Initiated Cancellations

If Korean Air cancels your flight due to operational reasons, weather, or other circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund or rebooking onto the next available flight without additional charges. Traveloka's 24/7 customer support team can assist with rebooking or refund processing in such situations.

Why Book Korean Air Flights on Traveloka

Booking Korean Air flights through Traveloka gives Singapore travellers access to a range of exclusive benefits and conveniences:

• Competitive pricing — Access exclusive deals, promotional fares, and flash sales that may not be available elsewhere.
• Easy comparison — Compare Korean Air flights side-by-side with other airlines, sorted by price, departure time, duration, and number of stops.
• Flexible payment options — Pay with credit or debit cards, PayNow, GrabPay, or convenient instalment plans, with all fares shown clearly in SGD.
• Instant e-ticket — Receive your booking confirmation and e-ticket immediately by email and in the Traveloka app after payment.
• 24/7 customer support — A multilingual customer service team is available around the clock for booking questions, changes, or travel assistance.
• Loyalty rewards — Earn Traveloka Points on every booking, enjoy cashback promotions, and access member-exclusive offers.
• Additional services — Add travel insurance, airport transfers, hotel bookings, and other travel needs on a single platform.
• Price Alert — Set up fare notifications for your preferred Korean Air route and get an instant alert when prices drop.

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka

Use these proven strategies to secure the best fares on Korean Air flights from Singapore:

• Book early — Fares to Seoul and beyond tend to rise as the departure date approaches. Booking 4 to 8 weeks in advance usually gives the best pricing for Economy Class.
• Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different days. Shifting your travel date by just a day or two can lead to meaningful savings.
• Fly on weekdays — Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays tend to be cheaper than weekend departures, especially on the popular Singapore to Seoul route.
• Set a Price Alert — Activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature for your preferred route and receive an instant notification when fares fall.
• Check promotions regularly — Visit Traveloka's promotions page regularly for flash sales, seasonal offers, and exclusive promo codes for Korean Air and other airlines.
• Travel outside peak season — Avoid peak periods such as Korean holidays (Chuseok in September/October, Seollal in January/February), school holidays, and the year-end holiday season for lower fares.
• Bundle your trip — Book Korean Air flights together with a hotel in Seoul, Busan, or Jeju through Traveloka for additional bundle discounts.
• Consider connecting flights — If a direct flight to your final destination is expensive, consider flying via Seoul Incheon as a transit hub and booking a separate onward flight for potential savings.
• Compare fare classes — Korean Air offers different Economy Class fare tiers (Saver, Value, Flex). Choose the Saver fare if you need minimal baggage and flexibility to get the lowest price.

How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka

Follow these simple steps to book a Korean Air flight on Traveloka:

1. Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app on your mobile device and navigate to the Flights section.
2. Enter your departure city (Singapore) and destination (such as Seoul), select your travel dates, choose one-way or round-trip, and specify the number of passengers and cabin class.
3. Tap the search button to see all available flights for your chosen route and dates.
4. Browse the results and use filters to sort by price, departure time, duration, airline, or number of stops. Look for Korean Air flights marked with flight code KE.
5. Select your preferred Korean Air flight and review the fare details, including baggage allowance and fare conditions.
6. Enter passenger details for each traveller — full name (as per passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, and contact information.
7. Add optional extras such as additional checked baggage, seat selection, travel insurance, or airport transfers.
8. Review the complete booking summary including total fare, taxes, fees, and any add-ons.
9. Select your preferred payment method — credit card, debit card, PayNow, GrabPay, or an instalment plan — and complete the transaction.
10. Receive your e-ticket instantly by email and in the Traveloka app. Save or screenshot the booking confirmation for reference at the airport.

With your e-ticket confirmed, you're ready to fly Korean Air to Seoul and beyond. Enjoy your journey with one of Asia's top full-service airlines, and make the most of Traveloka's easy booking experience for a smooth trip.