What is the cancellation policy for Korean Airlines?

Travel plans don’t always go as expected, and sometimes cancellations are unavoidable. If you're flying with Korean Air, understanding their cancellation policy can save you both time and money. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency or simply need to make a change, the Korean Air Cancellation Policy provides guidelines to help you navigate the process.

Understanding the Korean Air Cancellation Policy

The Korean Air Cancellation Policy is designed to offer flexibility and transparency to passengers. However, the specific rules and fees depend on factors like ticket type, route, and the timing of the cancellation.

Key Features of the Policy

• 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

  • Passengers can cancel their ticket within 24 hours of booking without incurring any penalties, provided the ticket was booked at least 7 days before departure.

• Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Tickets

  • Refundable tickets allow cancellations with minimal fees, depending on the fare rules.
  • Non-refundable tickets typically involve a cancellation fee, and the remaining balance may be credited as a travel voucher.

• Cancellation Fees

  • Fees vary based on ticket type, route, and class. Economy tickets may have higher fees compared to Business or First Class tickets.

• Special Circumstances

  • Korean Air accommodates cancellations due to unforeseen situations, such as medical emergencies or flight disruptions, often waiving certain fees in such cases.

How to Cancel Your Korean Air Flight

Canceling your flight is straightforward and can be done through several channels:

Cancel Online

• Visit the Korean Air website.
• Log in to the “My Trips” or “Manage Booking” section.
• Enter your booking details (reservation number and last name).
• Follow the prompts to cancel your flight and confirm the changes.

Cancel via the Mobile App

• Open the Korean Air mobile app.
• Navigate to your reservation details.
• Choose the cancellation option and follow the steps to complete the process.

Cancel by Calling Customer Service

For personalized assistance, you can call Korean Air at 1-860-516-6375. A representative will guide you through the cancellation process, explain applicable fees, and provide refund details.

Refund Process and Timing

Once your cancellation is confirmed, the refund process begins. Here’s what to expect:

• Refund Eligibility

  • Refund amounts depend on ticket type, cancellation timing, and applicable fees.

• Processing Time

  • Refunds are usually processed within 7-14 business days. However, processing times may vary depending on the payment method.

• Refund Method

  • Refunds are credited back to the original payment method or issued as a travel voucher for future use.

Cancellation Fees and How to Avoid Them

Cancellation Fees

Korean Air charges a fee for most cancellations unless they fall within the 24-hour risk-free window or special conditions apply. Fees vary based on:

• Ticket class (Economy, Business, or First).
• Route (domestic vs. international).
• Timing of the cancellation (closer to departure incurs higher fees).

Tips to Avoid Fees

• Cancel Early
  Cancel as soon as you’re aware of the need to avoid higher last-minute fees.
• Opt for Refundable Tickets
  Refundable fares are more flexible, making cancellations less costly.
• Consider Travel Insurance
  Travel insurance can cover cancellation fees for specific reasons, such as illness or weather-related disruptions.

FAQs on Korean Air Cancellation Policy

1. Can I cancel my Korean Air ticket for free?
Yes, if you cancel within 24 hours of booking and at least 7 days before the flight, you won’t be charged a cancellation fee.

2. What happens to non-refundable tickets?
For non-refundable tickets, a cancellation fee is deducted, and the remaining balance may be issued as a travel voucher.

3. How long does it take to receive a refund?
Refunds typically take 7-14 business days to process, depending on the payment method.

4. Can I cancel my ticket online?
Yes, you can cancel your ticket through the Korean Air website or mobile app using the “Manage Booking” feature.

5. Who can I contact for assistance with cancellations?
For support, you can call Korean Air’s customer service at 1-860-516-6375.