Between South Korea’s rich history and culture, vibrant foodie scene, and stunning natural landscapes, there’s plenty to see and do here, regardless of your style, personality, or budget.
If you’re just starting with points and miles, Seoul makes a fantastic point to begin your journey, with numerous flights available through a mix of major U.S. carriers and their airline alliance partners.
Once you arrive, there’s a plethora of points hotels available, greatly increasing your chances of enjoying a free night or two just by taking advantage of lucrative welcome bonuses from travel credit cards.
The Cheapest Award Flights to South Korea
When traveling to South Korea from the U.S., you will likely fly into Incheon International Airport (ICN), located about a 30-minute drive from Seoul. This guide focuses on the best points-and-miles redemptions from both the West Coast and East Coast of the U.S. However, consider that it’s also possible to fly nonstop from Honolulu on airlines like Hawaiian Airlines, Korean Air, or Asiana Airlines.
- Cheapest Economy Class Ticket: 45,000 (low), 55,000 (regular), or 60,000 (high) ANA Mileage Club miles round-trip.
- Cheapest Business-Class Ticket: 80,000 (low), 90,000 (regular), or 95,000 (high) ANA Mileage Club miles round-trip.
- Cheapest First-Class Ticket: 160,000 Korean Air Skypass miles round-trip (off-peak).
Korean Air SkyPass
The most direct flights to Seoul from the U.S. are offered by Korean Air, departing from major cities like Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, and more. Korean Air maintains a seasonal award chart, so be sure to check peak and off-peak dates before planning your flight.
Generally, here’s how many Skypass miles you’ll need:
- Economy Class: 70,000 (off-peak), 105,000 (peak) miles round-trip.
- Business Class: 125,000 (off-peak), 185,000 (peak) miles round-trip.
- First Class: 160,000 (off-peak), 240,000 (peak) miles round-trip.
By using Skypass miles, you can redeem flights on Korean Air’s SkyTeam partners, like Delta Air Lines, which offers nonstop flights from various U.S. hubs.
All Nippon Airways (ANA) Mileage Club
One of the best tactics for utilizing points is redeeming ANA Mileage Club miles for flights with the airline’s Star Alliance partners, including United and Asiana. Keep in mind that ANA uses separate charts for booking tickets on its own fleet versus partner airlines.
Here’s what to expect for ANA redemptions:
- Economy Class: 45,000 (low), 55,000 (regular), or 60,000 (high) miles round-trip.
- Business Class: 80,000 (low), 90,000 (regular), or 95,000 (high) miles round-trip.
- First Class: 165,000 (low and regular) or 180,000 (high) miles round-trip.
Avianca LifeMiles
Avianca LifeMiles can be an excellent option for flights to South Korea with its Star Alliance partners like United and Asiana. Here’s a breakdown of the miles needed:
- Economy Class: 70,000 miles round-trip.
- Business Class: 150,000 miles round-trip.
- First Class: 180,000 miles round-trip.
Air Canada Aeroplan
For individuals located near Toronto or Vancouver, Air Canada provides two options for redeeming points and miles — either by flying their fleet or their Star Alliance partners. Here’s the approximate Aeroplan points required:
- Economy Class: 90,000 to 180,000 miles round-trip.
- Business Class: 150,000 to 350,000 miles round-trip.
- First Class: 220,000 to 500,000 miles round-trip.
Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan
Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan allows you to redeem for flights with any of its Oneworld partners, including American Airlines and Cathay Pacific. Here’s what you can expect:
- Economy Class: 75,000 miles round-trip.
- Business Class: 150,000 miles round-trip.
- First Class: 210,000 miles round-trip.
Exploring Seoul and Beyond
When you arrive in South Korea, consider that points hotels are abundant from Seoul to other popular destinations such as Busan and Jeju Island. Staying at properties associated with IHG One Rewards, Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt or Marriott Bonvoy can help you save significantly.
In Seoul, notable points hotels include Hilton properties that provide competitive rates. Enjoy your stay while exploring the vibrant culture and historic landmarks.
Activities and Ground Transportation
Driving is done on the right side of the road, which can make car rentals a viable option for exploring the country or taking day trips. Fortunately, South Korea benefits from a top-notch public transport system, featuring high-speed rail, buses, and ferries.
Bottom Line
Your trip to South Korea can be budget-friendly by maximizing travel rewards, keeping an eye on airline alliances, and effectively utilizing welcome bonuses. Thus, you can save considerably on flights, hotels, car rentals, and excursions for your journey.
