Korean Air is making major upgrades to its airport lounges and introducing Premium Economy cabins to enhance passenger experience. These changes come as part of the airline’s service improvements following its corporate identity update and the upcoming integration of Asiana Airlines.
The airline is expanding its lounge facilities at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2. With the airport’s Phase 4 expansion adding space to both the east and west wings, Korean Air will introduce new “Prestige Class Garden Lounges” in these areas. These additions will accommodate the increase in travelers after Asiana Airlines moves to Terminal 2.
The Prestige Class Lounge in the east wing will be expanded to twice its current size, while the Miler Club Lounge will also undergo renovations. The upgraded lounges will open in phases starting in August 2025. Meanwhile, the First Class Lounge and Prestige Class Lounge in the west wing will undergo a complete redesign and are set to reopen in April 2026. When all upgrades are completed, Korean Air will have six lounges at Incheon, increasing overall lounge space by 2.5 times and doubling the seating capacity.
Beyond Incheon, Korean Air is also upgrading lounges in other key international airports. The lounges at Los Angeles (LAX) and New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) will be redesigned with themes reflecting their respective cities.
New Features and Premium Services
Korean Air’s First Class Lounge will be redesigned to offer an upscale experience comparable to luxury hotel lounges. Passengers will enjoy an elegant and refined atmosphere designed for relaxation and comfort.
The airline is also introducing an improved dining experience. Live kitchens will serve freshly prepared meals, while bartenders and baristas will prepare beverages on-site. Dedicated bakeries and patisseries will offer fresh croissants, pizzas, and desserts, and a signature noodle bar will serve freshly made dishes.
To make lounge access more convenient, Korean Air is adding a new feature to its mobile app. This update will allow passengers to check lounge locations, amenities, reservations, and crowd levels in real time, making it easier to plan their time before a flight.
Premium Economy Now Available
In response to growing demand, Korean Air will introduce Premium Economy seating on its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The airline will retrofit 11 of these aircraft, replacing First Class cabins with the new seating option.
The first retrofitted aircraft will enter service in the second half of 2025. These planes will feature a three-class configuration: Prestige (Business), Premium Economy, and Economy. The fleet modifications will continue through 2026, expanding the availability of Premium Economy across more routes.
These upgrades reflect Korean Air’s continued efforts to improve passenger experience both on the ground and in the air.
