Korean Air will emerge as an integrated flag carrier on 17 December 2026, marking the completion of a consolidation process spanning over five years.
The Korean Air and Asiana Airlines boards approved the merger agreement on 13 May 2026, with the formal contract execution scheduled for 13 May. Upon execution, Korean Air will absorb all Asiana Airlines assets, liabilities, rights, obligations, and personnel.
The merger ratio is set at 1 share of Korean Air to 0.2736432 shares of Asiana Airlines. The transaction is projected to increase Korean Air’s capital by approximately KRW 101.7 billion. The acquisition process included KRW 3.6 trillion in government liquidity support to Asiana Airlines, which Korean Air managed and will repay.
Following the contract execution, Korean Air will submit a merger application to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT). In June 2026, the airline will apply for Operations Specifications (OpSpecs) amendments to standardize aircraft and safety systems under its existing Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
The integration aims to elevate Korean Air’s global market presence and establish Incheon International Airport as a dominant global hub through optimized network connectivity. Key investments include service upgrades (lounge renewals, catering), training standardization, facility modernization, and enhanced MRO capacity near Incheon Airport. Loyalty program consolidation is also being finalised.