Korean Air has announced an upgrade to its in-flight product portfolio with the introduction of Premium Class, a new cabin that offers a bridge between Economy and Prestige (business) Class. This product will launch in mid-September on its newly retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, representing a significant milestone in the airline’s multi-year cabin modernization program.
This long-anticipated launch comes after delays due to the pandemic, but now, with fully refreshed interiors, upgraded technology, and an entirely new seat category, Korean Air is betting on Premium Class to attract travelers seeking a step up in comfort and service—without the business class price tag.
A Sizeable Retrofit Investment
The Korean flag carrier has invested approximately KRW 300 billion (approximately $220 million) to retrofit 11 of its 777-300ER aircraft.
Notably, the overhaul introduces all-new cabins across three classes: Prestige Suites 2.0 in business class, New Economy, and now the freshly minted Premium Class.
Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air
“We’re committed to bringing the fully redesigned Boeing 777-300ER and new Premium Class to as many customers as possible,” said a Korean Air representative. “This fleet upgrade has been in progress since 2018 and, after delays due to the pandemic, we’re proud to now offer an elevated travel experience that meets our passengers’ evolving needs.”
The Boeing 777 is Korean Air’s long-haul workhorse. Currently, it is equipped with the airline’s first-generation business class seat, laid out in a 2-2-2 configuration. However, now that the planes are being retrofitted with the new, modern Prestige 2.0 suites, passengers can expect a more private in-flight experience.
Inside the Premium Class Experience
According to Korean Air, Premium Class comes packed with a new seat and in-flight experience. Positioned between business and economy, the new cabin features 40 seats arranged in a 2-4-2 layout with 39–41 inches of pitch—a full 50 percent more legroom than standard economy.
The 19.5-inch-wide seats recline up to 130 degrees and include foot and leg rests, ergonomic headrests, and privacy-enhancing winged sides.
Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air
Travelers in Premium Class also benefit from a 15.6-inch 4K in-flight entertainment screen, larger than those currently in Prestige Class on the same aircraft.
The fare? The airline says roughly 110 percent of an economy ticket, offering a value-rich alternative to a business class upgrade.
Premium Class Dining and Service
As noted by the carrier, what sets this cabin further apart is the soft product: meals and drinks sourced from the Prestige Class menu, but served in a simplified single-tray format—no compromise on quality.
Korean Air promises upgraded appetizers, main courses, and desserts plated on Armani/Casa tableware, accompanied by Prestige-level wines, teas, and coffees—all crafted by the airline’s culinary team, led by Chef Seakyeong Kim of Seoul’s Cesta restaurant.
Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air
On the ground, Premium Class travelers will also enjoy enhanced airport experiences, including priority Morning Calm check-in counters, Sky Priority boarding, and priority baggage handling.
What Else Is New?
Korean Air’s Premium Class debut is part of a comprehensive redesign of its long-haul fleet. All retrofitted 777-300ER aircraft now feature Prestige Suites 2.0, which were introduced in 2024. These lie-flat seats provide direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 configuration, complete with privacy doors and high-definition 23.8-inch screens.
Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air
Additionally, the new Economy Class has an upgraded layout with a refreshed 3-4-3 seating arrangement that enhances ergonomics and improves in-flight entertainment options. For the first time on Korean Air’s 777 aircraft, Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the plane.
The modern interior design draws inspiration from the airline’s newer jets and reflects its updated brand identity.
Part of a Bigger Brand Transformation
The Premium Class launch follows Korean Air’s April 2025 rebranding—the first in more than 40 years. The carrier introduced a refined Taegeuk symbol, a new logotype, and sleeker liveries. Alongside these visual updates came promises of service upgrades and cabin innovations—including this Premium Class product.
Chairman and CEO Walter Cho confirmed that Premium Economy seats will be installed across Boeing 777s, Airbus A350s, and the upcoming Boeing 777-9 fleet, with a configuration of 20 to 25 seats per aircraft and deployment across all long-haul routes.
Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air
“The 777-300ER is being retrofitted as we speak,” said Cho at the time. “These aircraft… will all be fitted with premium economy.”
While delays in new aircraft deliveries have affected rollout timelines, the current retrofit puts Korean Air on schedule for a phased introduction this fall.
Strategic Timing
The addition of Premium Class comes at a strategic moment for Korean Air. With its merger with Asiana Airlines nearing completion, the carrier is positioning itself for greater global competitiveness. Its three-class long-haul offering—Economy, Premium, and Prestige—brings it in line with global full-service carriers like Lufthansa, Air France, and ANA.
Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air
For Korean Air, the move also acknowledges a growing trend: premium leisure travel. As more travelers seek a blend of comfort, privacy, and affordability, Premium Class provides an enticing middle ground.
Bottom Line
With Premium Class, Korean Air introduces more than a new seat—it’s a redefinition of its long-haul experience. By investing in thoughtful design, superior comfort, and upgraded service, the airline is strengthening its appeal to both business and leisure travelers who want more than economy but don’t need the full business class treatment.
As the first of the retrofitted aircraft takes to the skies this fall, expect a polished, contemporary cabin that reflects Korean Air’s vision for the future—and a new benchmark in premium economy travel across Asia.