South Korea to US Travel Accelerates as Alaska Airlines Debuts New Nonstop Flights from Seoul to Seattle
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Travel between South Korea and the US is set to become faster and more convenient as Alaska Airlines introduces a brand-new nonstop service connecting Seoul to Seattle. Launching on September 12, this five-times-weekly route marks a major step in Alaska’s international expansion, offering travelers a direct link between two major global hubs while enhancing transpacific connectivity with the comfort of Hawaiian Airlines’ Airbus A330-200 aircraft.
Alaska Airlines is propelling its international ambitions forward in 2025 with a new route connecting its Seattle hub to Seoul, South Korea. Starting September 12, travelers will be able to fly nonstop between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Incheon International Airport (ICN) with five weekly departures. This route is part of Alaska’s global strategy and growing presence in Asia.
The flights will be operated using a wide-body Airbus A330-200 aircraft. The flight schedule is designed for traveler convenience. Outbound flights from Seattle will depart at 3:25 p.m. and land in Seoul at 6:50 p.m. the following day. Return flights from Seoul will take off at 8:50 p.m. and arrive back in Seattle by 3:00 p.m. Flights are available on Wednesdays through Sundays from Seattle, and Mondays through Sundays from Seoul.
Strategic Merger Fuels Route Expansion
This new route is part of a broader long-haul push from Alaska Airlines, centered around Seattle. It follows the airline’s new daily service to Tokyo’s Narita International Airport (NRT), launching May 12, 2025. Alaska has revealed plans to establish at least a dozen long-haul international routes from Seattle by 2030.
The airline’s international reach expanded significantly in 2024 with the acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines. While the brands continue to operate independently, Alaska uses Hawaiian’s long-range aircraft to reach new international destinations. The wide-body Airbus A330-200 aircraft now flying the Seattle-Seoul route is a result of this strategy.
Alaska also plans to introduce the Boeing 787-9 on this route in the future. Hawaiian has several of these aircraft on order, and Alaska intends to deploy them for long-haul connections as they become available.
Enhancing Network and Loyalty Reach
By expanding into global markets like Seoul, Alaska increases its relevance for both leisure and business travelers across the West Coast and beyond.
The acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines extended Alaska’s long-haul capabilities and added to its loyalty program. HawaiianMiles members are being integrated into the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, creating a more extensive loyalty network with increased benefits and options.
South Korea has become a top destination for U.S. travelers, driven by cultural tourism, business, and education. Seoul, with its global influence and connectivity, represents an essential step for Alaska in reaching a wider international market. By launching five nonstop flights weekly, the airline is aiming to compete with other carriers operating in the transpacific space.
Navigating a Competitive International Market
Seattle is already a hub for transpacific air traffic. Other airlines currently operate nonstop services between Seattle and Seoul, as well as Tokyo and other Asian destinations. Alaska is entering a competitive environment with this expansion.
To attract travelers, Alaska is offering special introductory fares: one-way tickets from Seattle to Seoul start at $773 in economy or 47,500 Mileage Plan miles. Business-class award redemptions begin at 250,000 miles.
Expanding Beyond Seattle
Seattle remains central to Alaska Airlines’ long-term growth strategy, especially for international flights. The city’s geographic position makes it an ideal launching point for destinations across the Pacific.
Alaska is also growing in Portland and San Diego. In May, the airline will launch new routes from Portland International Airport (PDX) to Eugene Airport (EUG) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). San Diego will see new service to Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport (MFR).
These domestic routes feed into Alaska’s broader hub system, supporting long-haul international growth by funneling travelers from secondary cities to Seattle.
Looking Forward
The Seattle to Seoul launch is part of a broader blueprint to evolve from a regional carrier into a globally competitive airline. The integration of Hawaiian’s fleet, expanded loyalty offerings, and international destinations reflect a deliberate transformation.
Travelers can expect more long-haul announcements in the coming years. With plans for 12 long-haul routes by 2030, Alaska may introduce services to cities such as Singapore, Manila, Bangkok, or key destinations in Europe.
Alaska Airlines is boosting transpacific travel with the launch of nonstop flights from Seoul to Seattle starting September 12, offering a faster, seamless connection between South Korea and the US.
Seattle–Seoul Nonstop Flight Details (Beginning September 12, 2025)
- SEA to ICN: Departs 3:25 p.m., arrives 6:50 p.m. next day
(Operates Wednesday through Sunday) - ICN to SEA: Departs 8:50 p.m., arrives 3:00 p.m. same day
(Operates Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
The flights will be operated with Hawaiian Airlines’ Airbus A330-200 aircraft, offering long-haul comfort, entertainment, and premium cabin features.
As international travel continues to grow in 2025, Alaska Airlines is positioning itself for sustained global relevance. The addition of nonstop service from Seattle to Seoul signals a pivotal moment in the airline’s expansion strategy.
By combining domestic strength with international ambition, Alaska is set to become a major player in transpacific aviation. With the added reach of Hawaiian’s fleet and loyalty program enhancements, the airline is well on its way to redefining its role on the world stage.
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