Korean Airlines Baggage Policy 2026

Planning a trip to Seoul or connecting through Incheon? Korean Air is a world-class airline, but their baggage rules can be stricter than what you might be used to with U.S. or European carriers.

Whether you are flying Economy or First Class, knowing the rules before you pack is the only way to avoid hefty fees at the check-in counter. 

At a Glance: Korean Air Baggage Allowance (2026)

Before diving into the fine print, here is the quick summary of what you are allowed to bring for free based on your ticket class.

Ticket Class	Carry-On Allowance	Checked Baggage (General International)	Checked Baggage (Americas Routes)
Economy (Saver)	1 Bag + 1 Personal Item (Max 10kg / 22lbs total)	1 piece (23kg / 50lbs)	1 piece (23kg / 50lbs)
Economy (Standard/Flex)	1 Bag + 1 Personal Item (Max 10kg / 22lbs total)	1 piece (23kg / 50lbs)	2 pieces (23kg / 50lbs each)
Prestige (Business)	2 Bags + 1 Personal Item (Max 18kg / 40lbs total)	2 pieces (32kg / 70lbs each)	2 pieces (32kg / 70lbs each)
First Class	2 Bags + 1 Personal Item (Max 18kg / 40lbs total)	3 pieces (32kg / 70lbs each)	3 pieces (32kg / 70lbs each)

Note: “Americas” includes flights to/from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Brazil routes have specific exceptions (see below).

Carry-On Baggage Rules

Korean Air is known for being stricter than average regarding cabin baggage weight. Unlike some US carriers that don’t weigh carry-ons, Korean Air staff often weigh bags at the check-in counter or gate.

Economy & Premium Economy

• Allowance: 1 Carry-on Bag + 1 Personal Item.
• Weight Limit:10kg (22lbs) TOTAL.
  • Crucial Note: This weight limit is combined. If your roller bag is 9kg and your laptop bag is 3kg, you are over the limit.
• Dimensions:
  • Carry-on: Max 55 x 40 x 20 cm (21 x 15 x 8 in).
  • Personal item: Must fit under the seat in front of you (e.g., handbag, laptop bag).

Prestige & First Class

• Allowance: 2 Carry-on Bags.
• Weight Limit: 18kg (40lbs) combined.
• Dimensions: Same dimension limits per bag apply (55 x 40 x 20 cm).

Pro-Tip: Musical instruments less than 115cm (total linear dimensions) are allowed as free carry-on, provided they fit in the overhead bin. Violins usually fit; guitars usually do not.

Checked Baggage Policy 2026

The checked allowance depends heavily on your route and when you purchased your ticket.

1. International Flights (To/From Americas)

This is the most common route for Western travelers (e.g., Los Angeles to Seoul).

• Standard Economy: 2 Free Bags (23kg each).
• Economy Saver: Only 1 Free Bag (23kg).
• Prestige: 2 Free Bags (32kg each).

2. General International (Asia, Europe, Oceania)

• All Economy: 1 Free Bag (23kg).
• Prestige: 2 Free Bags (32kg each).

3. Domestic Flights (Within Korea)

• Economy: Total weight allowance of 20kg (no piece limit, just total weight).
• Prestige: Total weight allowance of 30kg.

Important Update: Brazil Routes 2025/2026

Historically, flights to/from Brazil had generous 2-bag allowances for everyone. 

However, for tickets issued after June 30, 2025, the Economy Saver allowance drops to 1 bag (23kg). If you are booking travel for 2026 on a Saver fare, be aware of this reduction.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you exceed your free allowance, the fees on Korean Air are charged based on the “Piece Concept.” Prices vary by departure country currency.

Fees for Flights to/from the U.S. (USD):

• Additional Bag (2nd piece for Saver fares): ~$100 USD (varies by route).
• Additional Bag (3rd piece+): $200 USD per bag.
• Overweight (24kg – 32kg): $100 USD.
• Overweight (33kg – 45kg): $200 USD.
• Oversize (159cm – 203cm): $200 USD.

Note: Korean Air will strictly not accept any bag over 32kg (70lbs) or 158cm (62in) on certain routes, regardless of the fee paid, due to labor safety regulations. Always check beforehand.

Special Items: Sports & Infants

Sports Equipment (The “Waiver” Rule)

Korean Air has a friendly policy for sports gear like golf clubs, skis, snowboards, and scuba gear.

• The Rule: If your sports bag + standard checked bag combined weight is within your ticket’s weight allowance (e.g., 23kg), the oversize fee is waived for the sports bag (up to 292cm).
• Example: You check a suitcase (10kg) and a Golf Bag (12kg). Total = 22kg. Since this is under the 23kg limit, you pay no extra fees, even if the golf bag is physically large.

Traveling with Infants

• International: You can check 1 bag (10kg) + 1 fully collapsible stroller + 1 car seat (or bassinet).
• Domestic: 1 stroller + 1 car seat.

Common Questions 

Is Korean Air strict about carry-on weight?

Yes. Unlike many U.S. carriers, Korean Air ground staff frequently weigh carry-on bags at check-in. Ensure your roller bag and personal item combined do not exceed 10kg (Economy).

Can I pay for extra baggage in advance?

Yes, you can prepay for up to 3 extra bags via the Korean Air website or app. This typically offers a discount compared to airport rates. 

However, this option is usually not available for code-share flights (e.g., a flight operated by Delta).

Does a laptop bag count as a personal item?

Yes. A laptop bag, handbag, or small briefcase counts as your one personal item. It must fit under the seat in front of you.

What are the rules for Lithium Batteries?

Loose lithium batteries (power banks) are strictly forbidden in checked luggage. They must be in your carry-on. The limit is 160Wh per battery.

I am a SKYPASS Morning Calm member. Do I get extra bags?

Yes. Morning Calm Club members typically get 1 extra piece of baggage free (excluding flights to/from Americas on Economy tickets).

Final Thoughts

The most common mistake travelers make is ignoring the 10kg combined carry-on limit.

Pack smart, weigh your bags at home, and double-check your specific e-ticket for the final word on your allowance.

Disclaimer: Airline policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify the latest details on the official Korean Air website before flying.