Baggage Limits
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Korean Air Baggage Policy

South Korea South Korea SkyTeam SkyTeam 5-Star Skytrax KE / KAL
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About Korean Air

Korean Air is South Korea's flag carrier and a founding member of SkyTeam, serving major cities across Asia and beyond. Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. The airline is a member of SkyTeam.

Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on Bag

Dimensions 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 36 x 22 cm)
Weight 22 pounds (10 kg)
One carry-on bag allowed per passenger.

Personal Item

Dimensions Included in carry-on
Weight Part of 10kg allowance
One personal item like laptop bag or handbag.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Class First Bag Second Bag Weight Dimensions
Economy Free Varies by route 51 pounds (23 kg) 62 linear inches (158 cm)
Prestige (Business) Free Free 70 pounds (32 kg) 62 linear inches (158 cm)
First Class Free Free 70 pounds (32 kg) 62 linear inches (158 cm)

Additional Bags & Notes

Americas: 2 bags, Other routes: 1 bag included

💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Korean Air baggage page before traveling.

Example Baggage Scenarios

Seoul → Los Angeles (Economy)

Carry-on: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 36 x 22 cm), 10 kg max
Checked bag: 1 piece 51 pounds (23 kg) — Included
2nd bag: Varies by route
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport

Seoul → Paris (Business Class)

Carry-on: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 36 x 22 cm), 10 kg max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 70 pounds (32 kg) — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage

⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.

Excess Baggage Fees

Fee Type Amount Notes
Extra Bag / Per Kg KRW 8,000-15,000 per kg (varies by route) Varies by route and booking time
Prepaid Discount Save up to 20% when prepaying online Book online before departure to save
Overweight (23-32kg) KRW 70,000-150,000 for bags 23-32kg Per bag exceeding standard weight

💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.

Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees

  • Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
  • Prepay online: Book extra baggage through Korean Air's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
  • Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
  • Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
  • Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
  • Join SKYPASS: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.

Special Items & Equipment

Korean Air accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.

Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.

Sports equipment: Golf, ski equipment accepted

Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.

Size Max 300cm linear (L+W+H)
Fee €50-150 per item
Booking 48-72h ahead

Must be properly packed in protective bag/case

Musical instruments: Cabin seat purchase option

Small instruments cabin-allowed if space permits.

Size Cabin: max 80cm length; Checked: max 32kg
Fee €0-200 (extra seat for large items)
Booking 48-72h ahead

Cellos/large instruments may require seat purchase

Infant baggage: 10kg allowance plus stroller

Strollers and pushchairs gate-checked free.

Size No size restrictions
Fee Free of charge
Booking 48-72h ahead

Compact strollers may be allowed in overhead bin

SKYPASS: Extra allowance by membership tier

Contact airline for specific requirements.

Size Varies
Fee Contact airline
Booking 48-72h ahead

Pre-booking recommended

Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference

Musical Instruments

  • Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
  • Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
  • Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
  • Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight

Sports Equipment

  • Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
  • Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
  • Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
  • Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length

Hub Airports

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does checked baggage cost on Korean Air?
On Korean Air, Economy class first checked bag costs Included (max 51 pounds (23 kg), 62 linear inches (158 cm)). Second bag: Varies by route. Business Class: first bag Included (max 70 pounds (32 kg)). Save up to 20% when prepaying online.
What are the carry-on size limits for Korean Air?
Carry-on bags on Korean Air must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 36 x 22 cm). Weight limit is 22 pounds (10 kg). In addition, you can bring one personal item (max Included in carry-on) that fits under the seat. Oversized bags will need to be checked at the gate.
Can I bring a personal item in addition to carry-on?
Yes, Korean Air allows one personal item (handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack) in addition to your main carry-on. Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you, typically max dimensions of Included in carry-on.
What liquids can I bring in my carry-on?
Following international aviation rules, liquids in carry-on must be in containers of 100ml or less, all fitting in a single transparent 1-liter resealable bag. This includes gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols. Exceptions apply for baby food, medications, and duty-free purchases in sealed bags.
How do I avoid excess baggage fees?
Tips to avoid extra fees on Korean Air: Weigh your bags at home before departure. Save up to 20% when prepaying online. Wear heavy items like coats and boots. Use compression bags for clothes. Join SKYPASS for elite baggage benefits.
Can I bring sports equipment or musical instruments?
Korean Air accepts sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, surfboards, bicycles) and musical instruments as checked or cabin baggage with special conditions. Large instruments may require a separate seat purchase. Contact Korean Air directly at least 48 hours before departure to arrange transport and confirm fees.
What items are prohibited in checked baggage?
Prohibited items in Korean Air checked baggage include: lithium batteries over 100Wh, flammable liquids, explosives, compressed gases, and valuable items (jewelry, electronics, cash, important documents). These should be carried in your cabin bag or left at home. Check Korean Air's dangerous goods policy for the complete list.

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