Korean Air has officially completed a comprehensive 42-month infrastructure overhaul of its lounges at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2 with the unveiling of its renovated First and Prestige Class West Lounges, opening April 17 and 16, respectively.
Following a KRW 110 billion (US$74.3 million) investment, the airline has successfully modernized its entire lounge network at Incheon. The expansion more than doubles the airline's total lounge capacity at the terminal, preparing for increased passenger volumes ahead of its planned integration with Asiana Airlines.
Designed around the concept of a “home away from home,” the new facilities prioritize passenger experience through enhanced dining and amenities.
First Class Lounge
The First Class Lounge, spanning 921 square meters—2.3 times larger than the previous facility—has been reimagined to focus on privacy. The space is divided into an open hall and 11 private suites.
The interior draws inspiration from traditional Korean architecture, utilizing wood pillars, beams, and ramie (mosi) textures. Upon entry, passengers are guided to independent suites for a private pre-flight experience.
Key features include:
- Dining & tableware: Meals are served à la carte, utilizing traditional recipes that emphasize natural flavors. In addition to Christofle cutlery, Bernardaud porcelain, and Baccarat and Riedel glassware, the lounge features white porcelain by Lee Ki-jo and traditional brassware by Lee Hyung-geun.
- Art collection: The space functions as a curated gallery featuring works by renowned artist Anish Kapoor alongside Korean artists including Kim Young-joo, Lee Bae, Yoo Bong-sang, and Chae Sung-pil. The collection focuses on the traditional Korean tones of yellow and black.
- Wellness: The wellness zone features premium massage chairs, and shower suites are equipped with powder rooms and private shower booths.
Prestige Class West Lounge
Spanning 2,615 square meters with over 420 seats, the Prestige Class West Lounge is the largest single lounge facility at Incheon International Airport. The design utilizes a palette of gold, black and ivory.
- Culinary experience: Features a buffet featuring Korean and Western cuisine, live cooking stations, and a full-service bar. The buffet includes handmade desserts and traditional Korean snacks (yakgwa) crafted by Grand Hyatt chefs, as well as seasonal fruits and soft-serve ice cream. The menu is updated quarterly to include seasonal ingredients.
- Digital art: The space features digital art and installations that change according to the time and viewing angle.
- Productivity and wellness: The lounge offers a dedicated Tech Zone with work stations for business travelers, and a wellness area with premium massage chairs.
Strategic Expansion
With the completion of the First Class and Prestige West facilities, Korean Air’s total lounge footprint at Incheon has expanded from 5,105 to 12,270 square meters, increasing total seating capacity from 898 to 1,566 seats. Korean Air will operate seven lounges at Incheon Terminal 2: First Class, Miler Club, Prestige East Left, Prestige East Right, Prestige West, Prestige Garden East, and Prestige Garden West.
Following the completion of the Incheon lounges, Korean Air will continue its infrastructure upgrades at major hubs, including Gimpo International Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
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