Korean carriers invest in luxury services

Korean Air launches Kosmos Suite for first class passengers (Image: Joong Ang Daily)

Korean carriers are capitalising on rising premium demand, launching enhanced first and business class services and facilities to keep its VIP customers coming back for more.
 
“Demand for our first and business class seats during this July and August has increased by around 10 percent compared to the same time last year” said Asiana Airlines public relations senior manager Cho Yong-moo.

Such demand has seen local carriers such as Korean Air announce a complete seat redesign for its mid- to long-distance flights.

Korean Air said earlier this month its first class passenger would be seated in its new Kosmo Suites, which are 15.3cm (6 inches) longer than the average first class seat and features a large personal monitor and a fully reclining chair.

According to Joong Ang Daily, tickets for these lavish first class services on Korean carriers can exceed 10 million won ($8,134) for a round trip from Seoul to the United States.

And for the Kosmo Suite? – passengers flying round trip Seoul to New York will have to fork out 12 million won, compared to 9.9 million won for a first class round trip ticket Seoul-New York on Asiana Airlines.

Cho added that ticket prices were mostly influenced by flight distance and seat class, with premium demand rarely affected by economic conditions.