Korean Air Relaunches Daily Seoul Incheon–Kumamoto Flights, Sparking a New Era of Japan Travel After 27-Year Break

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Korean Air resumes daily flights between Seoul Incheon and Kumamoto starting November 24, reviving the route after a 27-year break and boosting Japan travel demand.

Korean Air will begin daily flights on the Seoul Incheon–Kumamoto route starting November 24, responding to rising travel demand to Japan. This marks the return of the route after a 27-year hiatus, initially suspended during the 1997 Asian financial crisis.

Kumamoto, located in the heart of Kyushu, is renowned for its year-round appeal as a tourist destination. Visitors can explore its rich history and breathtaking natural wonders, such as Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest caldera volcanoes, and Kumamoto Castle, a landmark among Japan’s most famous castles. Additional attractions include the Kikuchi Castle ruins, showcasing medieval fortress architecture influenced by Korea’s Baekje Kingdom, the picturesque Amakusa Islands, and Kurokawa Onsen, a 300-year-old hot spring village nestled in a forested valley, providing a quintessential onsen experience. Kumamoto’s climate, cultural heritage, and celebrated local cuisine offer travelers a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Kumamoto is also home to the popular mascot “Kumamon,” a playful black bear character introduced in 2011. Kumamon has since become a symbol of Kumamoto’s charm, generating over 1 trillion yen annually and gaining widespread recognition both in Japan and internationally, rivalling iconic characters like Hello Kitty.

Korean Air is broadening its services to smaller Japanese cities to cater to growing interest in lesser-known destinations. Beginning October 27, the airline will increase the frequency of flights on the Seoul Incheon–Okayama and Kagoshima routes and resume the Seoul Incheon–Nagasaki route with four weekly flights. These efforts demonstrate Korean Air’s commitment to expanding connectivity and offering travelers more opportunities to explore Japan’s rich cultural and natural landscapes beyond its major cities.