Phê Vé
April 16, 2026 • 3 min read
Korean Air has just unveiled a new first class lounge at Incheon Airport, featuring significant upgrades and a luxurious private space.
Introducing Korean Air's New Lounge
Korean Air is evolving to enhance the passenger experience. The airline is not only preparing for its merger with Asiana but also aims to strengthen its competitive edge against rivals in Asia. A key highlight of this major project is the upgrade and expansion of its lounge offerings at Incheon Airport in Seoul.
On April 17, 2026, Korean Air's new first class lounge will officially open its doors, boasting an impressive area of 921 square meters—2.3 times larger than the previous lounge. The new space is designed to be a "second home" for travelers, providing comfort and the best possible experience before boarding their flights.
Key Features of the First Class Lounge
The new lounge presents modern amenities, including:
- An à la carte restaurant featuring premium dining ware from Christofle, Bernardaud porcelain, Baccarat and Riedel glassware, along with Lee Ki-jo white china.
- An art collection showcasing works by artist Anish Kapoor and Korean artists such as Kim Young-joo and Lee Bae.
- A wellness area equipped with massage chairs and private shower rooms.
The interior design draws inspiration from traditional Korean architecture, utilizing wooden pillars and ramie patterns to create a warm and luxurious atmosphere.
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Comparing to the Old Lounge: Notable Improvements but Still Limitations
Having previously reviewed Korean Air's old lounge at Incheon, I must admit it was quite disappointing for an international first class lounge. The space felt too quiet and lacked essential amenities. Compared to the new lounge, the improvements are clear, yet I still have a few reservations.
While the new lounge is larger and offers more private rooms, the main area seems to lack a cozy vibe, resembling more of a cafeteria than a first class lounge. The number of dining tables appears excessive and is never fully utilized. Although this helps avoid overcrowding, I wish the space felt more intimate.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
Passengers from Vietnam looking to experience Korean Air's first class lounge at Incheon should keep the following information in mind:
- Visa: Vietnamese citizens need to apply for a South Korean visa prior to entry. This process can take about 5-7 business days.
- Cost: Flight prices from Vietnam to Seoul typically range from 5,000,000 to 10,000,000 VND, depending on the time of booking and the airline.
- Flight Duration: The flight time from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Seoul (ICN) is approximately 5-6 hours.
- Time Zone: South Korea is 2 hours ahead of Vietnam.
Conclusion
Korean Air's decision to open a new first class lounge at Incheon Airport marks a significant step forward in enhancing the customer experience. While there are numerous improvements and new amenities, there are still aspects that need refinement to create a truly private and welcoming space. I look forward to visiting this lounge in the near future!
Article referenced and edited from: One Mile at a Time
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