Korean Air Expands China and Japan Routes in 2025

Korean Air is significantly expanding its network to China and Japan, responding to the recovering travel demand in North Asia. The South Korean flag carrier has announced a series of route adjustments and new services set to launch in the coming months.

Starting October 22, 2024, Korean Air will resume its service from Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) to Mudanjiang Hailang International Airport (MDG) in China, marking the route’s return after a four-year break. Additionally, flights from Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan to Qingdao International Airport (TAO) will commence on December 1, 2024.

In a bid to enhance connectivity, Korean Air has already increased frequencies on several existing routes. As of August 12, 2024, the carrier has upgraded its ICN to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) service from four weekly flights to a daily schedule. Similarly, the ICN to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) route will see an increase from four weekly flights to daily service starting October 1, 2024.

The airline is also boosting its presence in Taiwan. From October 27, 2024, Korean Air will enhance its ICN to Taichung International Airport (RMQ) route, increasing the frequency from four times a week to daily. Additionally, on the same day, the carrier will relaunch its Seoul Incheon to Nagasaki Airport (NGS) route for the winter season after an absence of more than 11 years. This route will operate four times weekly, providing new travel opportunities to the Japanese city.

For a limited period, Korean Air will also increase its services to Osaka International Airport (ITM) from three to four times weekly, effective September 2, 2024, through October 26, 2024.

By December 2024, Korean Air aims to restore its services to China to 95% of pre-pandemic levels and boost its services to Japan to 106% of its December 2019 capacity.

“Korean Air is dedicated to aligning its schedules with the evolving needs of travelers. These strategic network expansions underscore our commitment to enhancing the travel experience and solidifying our position as a leading airline in the region,” said a spokesperson for the airline.

The expansion efforts are a testament to Korean Air’s response to the growing demand for travel in North Asia, reinforcing its commitment to providing comprehensive and flexible service options for its passengers.