Korean Air Check-in Policy: Complete Guide to Online, Mobile, and Airport Check-in

Korean Air is one of Asia’s most respected airlines, known for its excellent service, modern fleet, and efficient operations. Whether you’re flying within South Korea or traveling internationally, understanding the Korean Air check-in policy can help you avoid delays and enjoy a smooth start to your journey.

This comprehensive guide explains online check-in, mobile check-in, airport counter deadlines, baggage drop rules, seat selection, special assistance, and boarding procedures, all in simple, traveler-friendly language.

About Korean Air

Korean Air is the flag carrier of South Korea, headquartered in Seoul, with its main hub at Incheon International Airport (ICN). The airline operates an extensive global network across:

Asia
North America
Europe
Oceania
The Middle East

Korean Air is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance and is widely praised for punctuality and customer service.

Korean Air Check-in Options Overview

Korean Air offers multiple check-in options:

Online check-in
Mobile app check-in
Airport counter check-in
Self-service kiosks (available at select airports)

Online and mobile check-in are recommended to save time at the airport.

Online Check-in Policy (Korean Air)

When Does Online Check-in Open?

Korean Air online check-in opens:

48 hours before departure for most international flights
24 hours before departure for flights to/from the United States

Online check-in typically closes:

1 hour before departure for most international flights
Earlier at some airports due to local regulations

Who Can Use Online Check-in?

Online check-in is available for:

Economy, Prestige (Business), and First Class passengers
Most domestic and international routes

Passengers who may need to check in at the airport include:

Unaccompanied minors
Passengers traveling with pets
Travelers requiring medical clearance

Mobile Check-in via Korean Air App

With the Korean Air mobile app, passengers can:

Check in using their smartphone
Access mobile boarding passes
Receive flight status and gate updates

Mobile boarding passes are accepted at most airports served by Korean Air.

Airport Check-in Policy (Korean Air)

Recommended Arrival Time

Korean Air recommends arriving:

1.5–2 hours before departure for domestic flights
3 hours before departure for international flights

Check-in Counter Closing Time

Airport check-in counters generally close:

30–40 minutes before departure for domestic flights
60 minutes before departure for international flights

Arriving late may result in denied boarding.

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Self-Service Check-in Kiosks

At major airports, Korean Air offers self-service kiosks where passengers can:

Check in
Print boarding passes
Tag checked baggage

These kiosks help reduce waiting times during peak travel periods.

Baggage Check-in Policy

Checked Baggage Allowance

Baggage allowance depends on:

Route
Fare type
Cabin class
SkyPass frequent flyer status

General guidelines:

Economy Class: Typically 1–2 checked bags
Prestige (Business) Class: Higher baggage allowance
First Class: Maximum baggage benefits

Always verify baggage limits on your ticket.

Carry-on Baggage Rules

Passengers are usually allowed:

1 carry-on bag
1 personal item

Cabin baggage size and weight limits are strictly enforced.

Baggage Drop After Online Check-in

Passengers who check in online but have checked baggage must:

Drop bags at the baggage drop counter
Do so before the baggage acceptance cut-off time

Late baggage drop can cause missed flights.

Seat Selection During Check-in

Seat selection is available:

During booking
During online or mobile check-in
At airport counters

Preferred seating may be subject to additional charges depending on fare type.

Special Assistance and Medical Check-in

Passengers requiring:

Wheelchair services
Medical clearance
Special meals
Assistance for reduced mobility

Should arrive early and may need to check in at the airport for document verification.

Unaccompanied Minors Check-in Policy

Children traveling alone:

Must check in at the airport
Require additional documentation
Are assisted by Korean Air staff throughout the journey

Online check-in is not available for unaccompanied minors.

Boarding Process at Korean Air

Boarding typically begins:

30–45 minutes before departure

Priority boarding is offered to:

First and Prestige Class passengers
SkyTeam elite members
Families with infants

Boarding is orderly and clearly announced.

International Travel Document Verification

For international flights, Korean Air may require verification of:

Passports
Visas
Health or entry documents

Even passengers who checked in online may need document checks at the airport.

Why Korean Air Check-in Experience Stands Out

Korean Air is known for:

Clear communication
Efficient airport operations
Friendly and professional staff
Strong international connectivity

The airline’s check-in process balances convenience with security.

Tips for Smooth Korean Air Check-in

Check in online as soon as it opens
Arrive early for international flights
Confirm baggage allowance in advance
Keep travel documents handy
Use mobile boarding passes when available

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Conclusion

The Korean Air check-in policy is designed to make your travel experience smooth and efficient. With flexible online and mobile check-in options, well-organized airport counters, and clear baggage rules, Korean Air ensures a stress-free start to both domestic and international journeys.

Understanding deadlines and requirements in advance helps you enjoy a seamless travel experience with Korean Air.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

1. When does Korean Air online check-in open?

Online check-in opens 48 hours before departure, or 24 hours for U.S. routes.

2. How early should I arrive for international flights?

Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.

3. Does Korean Air accept mobile boarding passes?

Yes, mobile boarding passes are accepted at most airports.

4. Can I check in online if I have checked baggage?

Yes, but baggage must be dropped before the cut-off time.

5. Who must check in at the airport with Korean Air?

Unaccompanied minors, passengers with pets, and travelers needing special assistance.