Korean Air celebrates its golden jubilee of the Seoul-Zurich route, highlighting half a century of unifying Korea and Switzerland through travel and cultural exchange.
In honor of this significant achievement, a gala reception was held at Zurich’s Widder Hotel on May 27. About 70 esteemed attendees, including Woosik Shin, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of Korea to Switzerland, Stefan Gross, the Chief Commercial Officer of Zurich Airport, and prominent members from the Swiss-Korean community, graced the occasion. Representing Korean Air were Jungho Choi, the Executive Vice President and Head of Sales, Sukwoo Lee, the Managing Vice President of Passenger Sales, and Euisuk Byun, the Regional Manager for Switzerland.
Korean Air pioneered the first direct flight between Korea and Switzerland on July 14, 1976, with the launch of the Seoul-Zurich route. Over half a century, the route has played a crucial role in fostering bilateral ties, and catalyzing business, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
The airline constantly broadens its reach via Zurich, one of its fundamental European entry points. A recent collaboration with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has led to the launch of a Rail & Fly service, facilitating seamless post-flight journey to major Swiss cities from Zurich Airport for passengers.
To elevate the passenger experience, Korean Air plans to deploy its Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner on the Zurich route from June 2, 2026. This aircraft, furnished with the latest Prestige Suites 2.0, promises superior privacy and an exquisite cabin interior inspired by Korean traditional design. The revamped Economy Class cabin also offers improved comfort, with a seat pitch of 32 inches and a recline angle of 120 degrees.
With a legacy of five decades of secure operations and customer trust, Korean Air remains dedicated to boosting the Zurich route as an integral fragment of its European network. The airline is unwavering in its commitment to service innovation and network connectivity, with a view to maintaining the route as a pivotal bridge between Korea and Switzerland for many more decades.
Jungho Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Sales, emphasized the airline’s steadfast dedication to linking Korea with Europe’s core. He stated, “As we look towards the next 50 years of operations, our focus remains firmly on upholding the highest standards of safety, comfort, and premium service for our customers.”
What does the Seoul-Zurich route signify for Korean Air?
The Seoul-Zurich route symbolizes Korean Air’s enduring commitment to establishing a connection between Korea and the heart of Europe.
What new developments are in store for the Seoul-Zurich route?
Korean Air plans to introduce its Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, offering superior privacy and comfort, on the Zurich route from June 2, 2026. The airline also recently launched a Rail & Fly service in collaboration with Swiss Federal Railways.
How has the Seoul-Zurich route impacted bilateral relations between Korea and Switzerland?
The Seoul-Zurich route has significantly strengthened bilateral relations and promoted business, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two nations over the past 50 years.
