SEOUL- Korean Air (KE) is implementing major service enhancements, including significant airport lounge expansions and the introduction of Premium Economy class on Boeing 777.
These improvements align with the airline’s new corporate identity ahead of its integration with Asiana Airlines (OZ).
Photo: By Minseong Kim – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37261696Korean Air Premium Economy
Responding to growing market demand, Korean Air will introduce Premium Economy seating. The airline plans to retrofit 11 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, removing First Class cabins to accommodate the new Premium Economy section.
The first retrofitted aircraft will enter service in the second half of 2025, featuring a three-class configuration: Prestige (Business), Premium Economy and Economy. Fleet modifications will continue through 2026, expanding Premium Economy availability across more routes.
These comprehensive service enhancements represent Korean Air’s commitment to elevating the passenger experience while preparing for its expanded operations following the Asiana integration.
Photo: Clément AlloingKorean A380 and Boeing 747 Continuation
Korean Air will retain its Airbus A380s and Boeing 747-8s in service longer than initially planned due to significant delays in new aircraft deliveries.
The announcement came from airline chief Walter Cho during a briefing in Seoul where the carrier unveiled its new corporate identity ahead of its merger with Asiana Airlines.
Cho confirmed the airline will continue operating both four-engine aircraft types “until we get our new planes,” though he did not specify a revised timeline for their retirement. The carrier previously intended to begin phasing out its A380s from 2025 after over 12 years of service.
The SkyTeam member currently faces a shortfall of approximately 20 aircraft from its expected fleet plan, significantly impacting both retirement schedules and capacity growth strategies. Korean Air maintains outstanding orders for various Airbus and Boeing models including A321neos, A350s, 787s, 737 Max, and 777-9s.
Cho acknowledged that maintaining the older aircraft “will come at a cost” to the airline but also noted that some newer aircraft in the fleet have failed to deliver promised efficiency gains. Korean Air is currently engaged in discussions with manufacturers regarding these issues, though Cho expressed “full faith” in both Airbus and Boeing to resolve the delivery delays.
According to Airline Business data, Korean Air currently operates seven Airbus A380 aircraft. The airline is now in a two-year integration process with Asiana Airlines following the successful completion of its acquisition in late 2024.
Photo: By byeangel from Tsingtao, China – HL8218 | Korean Air Lines | Boeing 777-3B5(ER) | ICN, CC BY-SA 2.0Extensive Lounge Expansion at Incheon International Airport (ICN)
The carrier will substantially upgrade its lounge facilities at Incheon International Airport (ICN) Terminal 2. Two new “Prestige Class Garden Lounges” will be constructed in both east and west wings, capitalizing on areas added during the airport’s Phase 4 expansion. This strategic enhancement addresses the anticipated increase in passenger traffic following the airport expansion and Asiana Airlines’ (OZ) relocation to Terminal 2.
The existing Prestige Class Lounge in the east wing will double in size, while the Miler Club Lounge will also expand. These four lounges will open progressively beginning August 2025, creating a more spacious environment for travelers.
Additionally, the First Class Lounge and Prestige Class Lounge in the west wing will undergo complete renovations with reopening scheduled for April 2026. Once completed, Korean Air (KE) will operate six lounges at Incheon, increasing overall lounge space by 2.5 times and doubling seating capacity.
Incheon International Airport (ICN); Photo: GenslerElevated Lounge Experience
The First Class Lounge transformation will create a premium space that surpasses traditional airport lounge standards. The airline aims to establish an elegant, refined environment reminiscent of luxury hotel lounges.
Food and beverage offerings will receive significant upgrades with:
- Live kitchens serving fresh, diverse cuisine
- On-site bartenders and baristas preparing cocktails, wines and specialty beverages
- Dedicated bakeries and patisseries offering freshly made croissants, pizzas and desserts
- A signature noodle bar providing freshly prepared dishes
Photo: Korean Air Global Lounge Network Improvements
Korean Air’s enhancement strategy extends to its international network. Lounges at Los Angeles (LAX) and New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) will undergo complete redesigns, incorporating distinctive city-themed atmospheres.
The airline is also developing a new mobile app feature to enhance the lounge experience. This technology will deliver real-time information about lounge locations, amenities, reservations and crowd levels, enabling passengers to better plan their pre-flight time.
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