Planning a journey from Los Angeles to Seoul? Let’s explore everything you need to know about flight times, airlines, and what to expect during this transpacific adventure.
Understanding LA to Seoul Flight Time
The direct flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Incheon International Airport (ICN) takes approximately 13 hours and 50 minutes. This long-haul journey spans roughly 6,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the longer international routes from the U.S. West Coast.
The return flight from Seoul to Los Angeles is notably shorter at around 12 hours and 20 minutes, thanks to favorable jet stream patterns. For those considering connecting flights, a layover in San Francisco (SFO) adds approximately 1.4 to 1.6 hours to the total journey.
Average Flight Duration and Distance
The typical flight time between these cities averages 13 hours and 17 minutes, covering approximately 6,000 miles (9,656 kilometers). Airlines utilize modern wide-body aircraft such as:
- Boeing 777
- Boeing 787 Dreamliner
- Airbus A350
These aircraft cruise at altitudes of 35,000-40,000 feet and speeds around 560 mph, following a route over Alaska and Russia before reaching South Korea.
Factors Affecting Flight Time
| Factor | Impact on Flight Time |
|---|---|
| Weather Conditions | Can add up to 1 hour (especially headwinds) |
| Jet Stream | May accelerate or slow down aircraft |
| Air Traffic | Potential delays during peak seasons |
| Aircraft Type | Newer planes can reduce time by 30-45 minutes |
| Operational Decisions | Slight variations based on altitude and speed choices |
Airlines Offering Direct Flights from Los Angeles to Seoul
Several major carriers operate this route, providing various options for travelers:
- Korean Air – Daily service using Boeing 777 or Airbus A380
- Asiana Airlines – Regular flights with Boeing 777 or A350
- Air Premia – New service since 2022 using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners
- Singapore Airlines – Fifth-freedom flights as part of Singapore-Seoul-Los Angeles service
Overview of Major Airlines
Korean Air leads the market with their Prestige Class featuring lie-flat seats and Korean-inspired cuisine. Asiana Airlines matches this quality with fully-flat beds in business class and excellent dining options. Air Premia offers a unique hybrid service model with Premium Economy seating at competitive prices.
Flight Schedules and Availability
Most direct flights operate daily with departures in the morning and early afternoon, arriving in Seoul the following day. Peak travel periods include:
- Summer months (June-August)
- Major holidays
- University breaks
- Lunar New Year
For optimal pricing and preferred flight times, booking 3-5 months in advance is recommended. Airlines typically release schedules 11 months ahead, allowing for early planning.
Cost of Flying from LA to Seoul
Direct flights between LAX and ICN vary significantly in price based on class and season. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
| Cabin Class | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Economy | $800-1,500 |
| Premium Economy | From $1,800 |
| Business | $3,500-6,000 |
Flights with layovers can reduce costs by 15-30%, though they extend travel time beyond the standard 13-14 hours. Budget-friendly carriers like China Eastern, China Southern, and Air China offer competitive connecting fares through cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Taipei.
Average and Cheapest Flight Prices
The average round-trip economy fare between Los Angeles and Seoul typically costs around $1,100. For the best deals, consider these seasonal price variations:
- February – Lowest fares, sometimes below $700 round-trip
- September and October – Good value shoulder season
- July and December – Peak pricing, exceeding $1,400
- Multi-stop flights – Potential savings down to $600-750
- Budget carriers (like Air Premia) – Promotional fares around $700
For additional savings, book Tuesday or Wednesday departures and use price comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak.
Best Time to Book for Affordable Rates
Strategic timing is crucial for securing the best fares. The optimal booking window is approximately 40 days before departure, balancing advance planning with competitive rates. For holiday travel, extend this timeline to 5-7 months ahead.
- Best booking times – Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday mornings
- Fare alert setup – 3-5 months before travel
- Holiday booking – 5-7 months in advance
- Shoulder seasons – October-November or March-April
- Last-minute bookings – Typically result in premium pricing
