Korean Air will introduce Premium Economy cabins as part of a service enhancement strategy that will also include upgrading its airport lounges, according to an announcement.
The airline will retrofit 11 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, removing First Class cabins to install Premium Economy cabins. The first retrofitted aircraft will enter service in the second half of 2025 with a three-class configuration: Prestige (Business), Premium Economy and Economy. Fleet modifications will continue through 2026 to expand Premium Economy availability across more routes.
The airline will expand and renovate its existing lounges at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2. New Prestige Class Garden Lounges will be built in both the east and west wings, areas added during the airport’s Phase 4 expansion. These enhancements will accommodate increased passenger traffic following the airport expansion and the relocation of Asiana Airlines into Terminal 2.
The existing Prestige Class Lounge in the east wing will double in size, while the Miler Club Lounge will also be expanded. These four lounges will open in phases beginning this August, providing a more spacious environment for an elevated customer experience.
Image: Prestige Class 2.0. Courtesy of Korean Air
The First Class Lounge and Prestige Class Lounge in the west wing will undergo renovations and reopen in April 2026. Once all upgrades are complete, Korean Air will operate a total of six lounges at Incheon, expanding the overall lounge space by two-and-a-half times and doubling seating capacity.
Food and beverage services will be significantly enhanced with live kitchens offering fresh, diverse cuisine. Bartenders and baristas will prepare cocktails, wines and beverages on-site. Dedicated bakeries and patisseries will serve croissants, pizzas and desserts, while a signature noodle bar will offer freshly prepared dishes.
The airline will also renovate its lounges at major international hub airports. The lounges at Los Angeles International Airport and New York John F. Kennedy International Airport will undergo complete redesigns, incorporating city-themed atmospheres.
Korean Air is also enhancing the airport lounge experience by introducing a new feature in its mobile app. This update will provide passengers with real-time information on lounge locations, amenities, reservations and crowd levels, making it easier to plan and enjoy their time before a flight.
