Korean Air vs. Air Premia vs. Delta: Which Airline to Choose for Korea?

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Planning a trip to Korea? Good news, flying there has never been easier, and you have more airline options than ever before. Whether you’re dreaming of bustling Seoul streets, serene mountain temples, or spicy street food adventures, the journey starts with choosing the right flight.

But with so many choices, it can feel overwhelming. Korean Air, Air Premia, or Delta Airlines, which one is right for you? Let’s break it all down so you can decide with confidence.

Routes and Destinations: How Do They Connect You to Korea?

When choosing an airline, how easily (and from where) you can get to Korea is key. Here’s a closer look at each option, including approximate flight times from major US cities to Seoul.

Korean Air offers the most extensive network among the three. It operates direct flights from major US cities to Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (ICN), making it ideal for travelers wanting flexibility and strong Asia connections.

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Seoul: about 13 hours.

• New York (JFK) to Seoul: about 14 hours nonstop.

• Atlanta to Seoul: about 14–15 hours.

• Seattle to Seoul: about 11 hours.

• San Francisco to Seoul: about 12 hours.

• Dallas to Seoul: about 14 hours.

  Once in Seoul, Korean Air’s extensive network makes it easy to continue on to destinations across Asia.

  
  

Air Premia is newer and has a more limited network for now. It currently operates direct flights mainly from Los Angeles to Seoul.

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Seoul: about 13 hours nonstop.

  While options are limited, Air Premia focuses on comfort and value, making it ideal for West Coast travelers looking for a straightforward, comfortable experience.

Delta Airlines offers direct flights from key US hubs to Seoul, especially useful for Delta loyalists or travelers living in Delta hub cities.

• Detroit to Seoul: about 14 hours.

• Atlanta to Seoul: about 14–15 hours.

• Seattle to Seoul: about 11 hours.

• Minneapolis to Seoul: about 13 hours.

  Although Delta doesn’t have a strong Asia network on its own, its partnership with Korean Air through SkyTeam allows for seamless onward connections in Korea and beyond.

Pricing and Value: What’s Worth Your Money?

Price is often the deciding factor when booking a long-haul flight. Here’s what you can generally expect to pay.

Korean Air

• Economy: around $1,200 to $1,800 round-trip from major US cities.

• Business: around $4,500 to $7,500 or more.

• Value: Higher price reflects premium service, spacious seating, authentic Korean meals, and excellent reliability. Perfect for comfort-focused travelers, especially during peak seasons.

Air Premia

• Economy: around $900 to $1,300 round-trip from Los Angeles.

• Premium economy: around $1,500 to $2,000.

• Value: Great middle-ground option for travelers seeking extra comfort without business class prices. Excellent for those who prioritize value and comfort.

Delta Airlines

• Economy: around $1,000 to $1,500, sometimes under $1,000 with deals.

• Premium Select: around $2,000 to $3,000.

• Delta One (business): around $5,000 to $8,000.

• Value: Flexible pricing with frequent promotions and strong mileage redemption options. Ideal for Delta loyalists and points-savvy travelers.

In-Flight Experience: What’s It Like Up in the Air?

A long flight to Korea can feel like a mini-vacation if you choose the right airline. Here’s what you’ll get onboard.

Korean Air

• Seat comfort: Spacious economy seats with about 33–34 inches of pitch, wider cushions, and generous legroom.

• Meals: Korean options like bibimbap plus Western dishes, with complimentary alcoholic beverages and snacks.

• Entertainment: Large, modern screens with Korean dramas, international movies, music, and games.

• Amenities: Blanket, pillow, headphones, toothbrush kit, and slippers on some routes.

Air Premia

• Seat comfort: Extra legroom even in economy (around 35 inches pitch). Premium economy offers even more width and recline.

• Meals: Hot Korean-inspired meals and Western choices, simple but thoughtfully prepared.

• Entertainment: Seat-back touchscreen systems with Korean and international options.

• Amenities: Blanket and pillow set, headphones, small amenities pouch (toothbrush, eye mask).

Delta Airlines

• Seat comfort:

  • Economy: Standard US carrier seats, basic pillow and blanket.

  • Premium Select: Wider seats, more recline, footrests.

  • Delta One: Fully lie-flat seats with luxury bedding.

• Meals:

  • Economy: Hot entrée, salad, dessert, snacks, complimentary beer and wine.

  • Premium cabins: Multi-course meals, premium wines and spirits.

• Entertainment: Personal screens with extensive movies, shows, and live TV.

• Amenities:

  • Economy: Basic pillow and blanket, headphones.

  • Premium Select: Upgraded amenity kit with earplugs, eye mask, skincare items.

  • Delta One: TUMI amenity kit with luxury toiletries.

Loyalty Programs: Who Rewards You Best?

Korean Air offers SKYPASS, part of SkyTeam. You can earn and redeem miles on Korean Air or with partners like Delta and Air France. Award availability is often better than on US carriers, making it an excellent option for frequent Asia travelers.

Air Premia does not currently have a loyalty program. It focuses on offering comfort and value without long-term commitments, which works well for travelers who prioritize price and simplicity.

Delta Airlines runs SkyMiles, one of the most popular loyalty programs in the US. Travelers can enjoy upgrades, priority services, and attractive redemption options with Delta and SkyTeam partners. It’s especially valuable for frequent US-based flyers.

Which Airline Fits Your Travel Style?

Korean Air is best for comfort seekers, families, and travelers who want a premium, reliable experience with seamless Asian connections.

Air Premia is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want extra space and comfort, especially if flying from Los Angeles.

Delta Airlines is great for loyal Delta customers and US-based travelers who value flexibility, deals, and strong loyalty perks.

Choosing the right airline sets the tone for your entire trip. Korean Air offers a premium experience and strong Asia connections. Air Premia provides an affordable, comfort-focused alternative. Delta stands out for flexibility and loyalty rewards.

No matter which you pick, your adventure in Korea will be waiting with unforgettable food, culture, and experiences.

Ready to plan your next Korean adventure? Get started and book a trip with us at thekmj.com — just fill out the form and we’ll help make your dream trip a reality!

Airline Comparison at a Glance

	Korean Air	Air Premia	Delta Airlines
Routes to Korea	Extensive US cities, strong Asia connections	Mainly LAX to Seoul	Select US cities, direct to Seoul
Pricing	Premium	Affordable premium economy	Varies, sometimes deals
Comfort	Spacious, great service	Premium economy comfort only	Varies, best in Premium Select and Delta One
Meals & entertainment	Korean meals, modern entertainment	Simple meals, new cabins	Solid entertainment, consistent service
Loyalty program	SKYPASS (SkyTeam)	None currently	SkyMiles (strong US perks)
Best for	Comfort seekers, families, Asia travelers	Comfort-focused budget travelers	Delta loyalists, US flyers

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