The number of passengers traveling with pets on Korean Air has more than doubled over the past four years, reflecting a surge in pet ownership in South Korea, the airline said Jan. 27.
Korean Air reported that in 2024, it received 57,595 pet travel requests for domestic and international flights, a 12.6% increase from the previous year. Passengers traveling with pets must apply to either bring their animals into the cabin or transport them as checked baggage.
Pet-related bookings have steadily climbed in recent years, rising from 27,533 in 2020 to 57,595 in 2024. International pet travel requests saw the sharpest growth, tripling from 10,054 in 2020 to 36,263 in 2024—an increase of 260.7%. Domestic requests rose more modestly, up 22% from 17,479 in 2020 to 21,332 in 2024.
Korean Air was the first South Korean airline to offer pet travel services. Since 2017, its “SkyPets” program has provided perks such as mileage accrual and discounts on transportation fees. Pets weighing up to 7 kilograms (15 pounds), including their carrier, are allowed in the cabin, while those between 7 and 45 kilograms (15 to 99 pounds) must travel as checked baggage.
Other South Korean airlines have also bolstered their pet-friendly offerings. Eastar Jet launched international pet travel services in July 2024 and introduced South Korea’s first “pet airtel” program. Jeju Air operated a special “DangDang Flight” in April 2024, where pets could sit in designated seats next to their owners.
T’way Air increased its pet weight limit for transport from 7 kilograms to 9 kilograms (20 pounds), and Air Busan expanded the number of pets allowed per flight from three to 10 in 2021. Air Busan has also introduced pet uniforms as part of its services.
