Japan, Thailand, and China Drive Korean Air’s Remarkable 2025 Growth with Sixteen Million Passengers and Expanding International Presence

Published on December 12, 2025

Japan, Thailand, and China have played a pivotal role in driving Korean Air’s exceptional growth in 2025, as the airline records an impressive 16 million passengers. This surge in demand can be attributed to the continued popularity of short-haul regional routes, with Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Bangkok consistently ranking among the top destinations. The introduction of a visa-free entry program for Korean nationals to China further boosted travel, leading to significant increases in passenger numbers on routes to Shanghai and Beijing. The combination of strong outbound demand, coupled with growing inbound traffic from the United States and China, has solidified Korean Air’s position as a leader in the international aviation market.

Korean Air Surges in 2025 with Record Passenger Demand and Growing International Reach

Korean Air (KE) has reported impressive passenger demand for 2025, carrying over 16 million travelers between January and early November. The airline’s year-end travel analysis highlights a strong recovery across its network, with Tokyo holding its position as the top international destination for the second consecutive year. This continued popularity reflects a sustained interest in short-haul regional travel, particularly to nearby cities in Japan, Thailand, and China.

Passenger Insights and Operational Scale

From January 1 to November 10, Korean Air transported 16.49 million passengers, a clear indication of the airline’s solid recovery following the pandemic. The airline flew a total of 280 million kilometers during this period, which is equivalent to nearly 7,000 laps around the Earth. This scale underscores the airline’s return to pre-pandemic travel levels, as both leisure and business travel continue to rise.

Japan remains the primary market for Korean Air, with cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka contributing significantly to outbound demand. Bangkok in Thailand also featured prominently in the rankings, further solidifying the airline’s position in the region. Notably, travel to China saw a marked increase, particularly in Shanghai, which experienced an additional 128,000 passengers, and Beijing, which saw an uptick of 71,000 travelers compared to the previous year.

The China Factor: Visa-Free Entry and Growth Potential

One of the key drivers of this increase in travel to China was the introduction of a visa-free entry program for Korean nationals. Launched in late 2024 and extended through 2026, this initiative allows South Korean travelers to visit China for up to 15 days without a visa. This policy change has had a notable impact, streamlining travel for many passengers and encouraging higher demand on routes that had previously seen slower growth. Korean Air anticipates this trend to continue well into 2026, with more passengers taking advantage of these relaxed travel restrictions.

Shifting Demographics and Travel Trends

In terms of demographics, travelers in their 30s and 40s represented the largest group, making up 40 percent of the airline’s total passengers. The 50s and 60s age group followed closely, contributing to 30 percent of the overall numbers. This trend indicates strong demand from both family travelers and senior passengers. Additionally, foreign nationals made up 35 percent of Korean Air’s passengers, with American and Chinese nationals representing nearly a quarter of this group.

Another area of interest was the airline’s specialized services, catering to both young and senior travelers. Over the course of the year, Korean Air provided assistance to 5,192 unaccompanied minors, ensuring their safety and comfort during their flights. Additionally, the airline transported nearly 32,000 pets internationally, reflecting a growing demand for pet-friendly travel options.

Onboard Preferences: Comfort and Entertainment Trends

Korean Air’s onboard preferences also provided valuable insights into evolving passenger tastes. “Captain America: Brave New World” emerged as the most-watched movie in-flight, while Korean dramas and local entertainment continued to be popular among travelers. This highlights a growing trend toward region-specific content, with passengers gravitating toward local films and shows during their flights.

In terms of catering, Korean Air’s Prestige business class featured a standout dish: stir-fried spicy octopus with rice, which was the top choice among business class passengers. The airline’s diverse menu offerings and focus on high-quality dining experiences underscore its commitment to providing premium services for travelers.

Preparing for the Future: Integration with Asiana Airlines

Korean Air’s strong performance in 2025 sets the stage for the airline’s ambitious plans, particularly its upcoming integration with Asiana Airlines, scheduled for completion by 2027. This merger is expected to expand Korean Air’s reach, both domestically and internationally, enabling it to better compete in an increasingly competitive global aviation market. With this significant transition on the horizon, Korean Air’s steady growth and evolving travel patterns position it well for future success.

Japan, Thailand, and China have fueled Korean Air’s growth in 2025, contributing to the airline’s remarkable 16 million passengers. The surge in demand is driven by popular short-haul routes and the introduction of a visa-free entry program for Korean nationals to China.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Korean Air

Korean Air’s performance in 2025 reflects a robust recovery, fueled by strong demand for travel to Japan and China. The airline’s ability to adapt to shifting travel trends, including the growing number of senior travelers and the rise in pet-friendly services, showcases its commitment to meeting the needs of diverse passenger groups. As Korean Air prepares for its merger with Asiana Airlines, it remains poised for continued growth and success in the coming years, with its 16 million-passenger milestone serving as a testament to its ongoing appeal in the global aviation market.