KE · South Korea · Full-service

Korean Air Baggage Policy

Carry-on, personal item, checked bag fees, overweight, special items, and basic economy rules for Korean Air, with every figure cited to the airline's own policy page.

Quick answer

  • Carry-on: up to 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9", max 12 kg, free
  • Personal item: must fit under the seat (no published dimensions), free on every fare
  • Checked bag: $0 first, $0 second (domestic economy)

Carry-on baggage

Max dimensions (in)
21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9"
Max dimensions (cm)
55 x 40 x 20 cm
Weight limit
12 kg (26.5 lb)
Fee
Free
Gate-check risk
Low

Total linear dimensions must not exceed 115 cm (45 in). Economy allows one cabin bag plus a personal item.

Personal item

Max dimensions (in)
Not published
Max dimensions (cm)
Not published
Included
Yes, free on every fare

A handbag, laptop bag, or garment bag in addition.

Does your bag count?

Bag typeTypical sizeFit
Standard backpack
Everyday daypack, laptop backpack
 18 x 13 x 8" Under-seat only
Tote bag
Canvas or leather tote
 15 x 14 x 5" Under-seat only
Laptop bag
Messenger or slim briefcase
 16 x 12 x 4" Under-seat only
Small duffel
Gym or weekender
 18 x 11 x 11" Under-seat only
Purse
Handbag or crossbody
 12 x 10 x 5" Under-seat only
Under-seat roller
Mini wheeled bag
 16 x 14 x 8" Under-seat only

Checked baggage fees

Compare fees across airlines →
Domestic economy
1st bag$0
2nd bag$0
Long-haul / international
1st bag$0
Weight limit51 lb
Linear dim62 in
Overweight & oversize
51–70 lbNot published
71–100 lbNot published
63–80 inNot published

On US/Canada routes (piece concept), Economy Standard and Flex include 2 checked bags at 23 kg / 51 lb each. Economy Saver includes 1 bag at 23 kg. Max single bag 32 kg / 70 lb and 158 cm / 62 in linear. SKYPASS Morning Calm and higher status receive additional allowance on weight-concept routes.

Ways to skip the Korean Air checked bag fee

  1. Pack carry-on only. Confirm your bag fits the Korean Air carry-on size.
  2. Use a Korean Air co-branded credit card. These typically waive the first checked bag fee for the cardholder and companions.
  3. Earn elite status. Mid-tier and above usually waive one or two bags per direction.
  4. Book a higher fare. Premium Economy, Business, and First usually include 1 to 2 checked bags.

Special items & sports equipment

Ski / snowboard
Not published
Golf clubs
Not published
Bicycle
Not published
Pet in cabin
Not published
Pet as cargo
Not published

Musical instruments: Small instruments count as carry-on. Larger instruments can be checked within allowance or booked as an extra cabin seat.

Korean Air allows small pets in the cabin (up to 7 kg including carrier) on most routes except to/from the UK, Australia, and a few other destinations; fees vary. Ski, golf, and bike equipment count as a standard checked bag within allowance.

Basic economy restrictions

Economy Saver Korean Air's lowest fare tier
Carry-on allowed
Yes
Personal item allowed
Yes
Checked bag surcharge
Not published
  • Only 1 checked bag (vs 2 on Standard/Flex)
  • No seat selection until check-in
  • No changes
  • Non-refundable
  • Reduced SKYPASS mileage earning

Frequently asked questions

What is the Korean Air carry-on size limit?

Korean Air allows a carry-on bag up to 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9" (55 x 40 x 20 cm), including handles and wheels. The weight limit is 12 kg (26.5 lb).

What is the Korean Air personal item size?

Korean Air does not publish strict personal item dimensions. Your bag must fit fully under the seat in front of you, which is typically about 18 x 14 x 8 inches. A handbag, laptop bag, or garment bag in addition.

How much does a checked bag cost on Korean Air?

The first checked bag on Korean Air costs $0 on most domestic economy fares, and the second bag costs $0. On long-haul international routes, the first checked bag fee is $0. On US/Canada routes (piece concept), Economy Standard and Flex include 2 checked bags at 23 kg / 51 lb each. Economy Saver includes 1 bag at 23 kg. Max single bag 32 kg / 70 lb and 158 cm / 62 in linear. SKYPASS Morning Calm and higher status receive additional allowance on weight-concept routes.

Can I bring a carry-on on Korean Air Economy Saver?

Yes. Korean Air Economy Saver passengers can bring one carry-on bag plus one personal item.

How can I avoid Korean Air checked bag fees?

Four common ways: (1) pack in a carry-on and personal item only (confirm your bag fits the Korean Air carry-on size of 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9"); (2) hold a Korean Air co-branded credit card, which typically waives the first checked bag fee for the cardholder and companions on the same reservation; (3) reach elite status in the airline's frequent flyer program, where mid-tier and above usually waive one or two bags per direction; (4) book a higher fare class (Premium Economy, Business, First) where checked bags are included.

Will my bag be gate-checked on Korean Air?

Korean Air currently has a low gate-check risk based on our review of boarding policies and traveler reports. Overhead bin space is usually sufficient on full flights.

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Korean Air hubs & focus cities

Major US airports where Korean Air operates. Click through for terminal layouts, connection times, and layover tips.

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Sources & verification

Airlines change baggage rules without notice. Always confirm with Korean Air before flying.