The Best Ways To Fly to South Korea With Points and Miles [Step by Step]

Key Takeaways

• Asiana Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Korean Air have the most direct routes from 10 U.S. cities.
• Miles from programs like Korean Air Skypass, Delta SkyMiles, and Asiana Club can be used for award flights to South Korea, with the best value often found in business or first-class redemptions.
• Transferring points from partners like Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards can help secure premium cabin seats on routes to Seoul.

Known for its fantastic culture, delicious street food, and beautiful natural landscapes, South Korea is a destination high on many travelers’ bucket lists. The country is relatively easy to get to from the U.S., as there are plenty of nonstop flights to its largest and capital city, Seoul.

However, traveling to Asia from the United States can get expensive. Fortunately, there are ways to get around this.

In this guide, we will look into the best ways to fly to Korea using points and miles. We will look at award programs in each of the 3 main airline alliances and what airlines you can fly using those points and miles.

Nonstop Flights Between the U.S. and South Korea

South Korea is the second-closest East Asian country to the U.S., behind only Japan. Furthermore, South Korea represents an important business hub for many Americans.

Fortunately, there are many ways to fly to South Korea with points and miles. From the U.S., more than a dozen airports have nonstop routes to Seoul, the country’s capital and biggest city.

These routes are operated primarily by Korea’s 2 biggest airlines, Asiana Airlines and Korean Air. In late 2024, Korean Air completed its acquisition of Asiana Airlines. However, they have only just begun their integration.

Some routes are also operated by U.S. carriers, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines.

This guide represents all 3 main airline alliances: Star Alliance, Oneworld, and SkyTeam. However, Star Alliance and SkyTeam are more represented, as Asiana is a member of Star Alliance and Korean Air is a member of SkyTeam.

Here are all of the airlines and the nonstop flights they offer between the U.S. and Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul, South Korea:

American Airlines

• Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) – Seoul (ICN)

Asiana Airlines

• Honolulu (HNL) – Seoul (ICN)
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Seoul (ICN)
• New York City (JFK) – Seoul (ICN)
• San Francisco (SFO) – Seoul (ICN)
• Seattle (SEA) – Seoul (ICN)

Delta Air Lines

• Atlanta (ATL) – Seoul (ICN)
• Detroit (DTW) – Seoul (ICN)
• Minneapolis (MSP) – Seoul (ICN)
• Salt Lake City (SLC) – Seoul (ICN)
• Seattle (SEA) – Seoul (ICN)

Hawaiian Airlines

• Honolulu (HNL) – Seoul (ICN)

Korean Air

• Atlanta (ATL) – Seoul (ICN)
• Boston (BOS) – Seoul (ICN)
• Chicago (ORD) – Seoul (ICN)
• Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) – Seoul (ICN)
• Honolulu (HNL) – Seoul (ICN)
• Las Vegas (LAS) – Seoul (ICN)
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Seoul (ICN)
• New York City (JFK) – Seoul (ICN)
• San Francisco (SFO) – Seoul (ICN)
• Seattle (SEA) – Seoul (ICN)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Seoul (ICN)

United Airlines

• San Francisco (SFO) – Seoul (ICN)

Air Premia

• Los Angeles (LAX) – Seoul (ICN)
• New York City (JFK) – Seoul (ICN)
• San Francisco (SFO) – Seoul (ICN)

Best Programs for Booking Flights to South Korea

Now that we’ve looked at which airlines operate nonstop routes to Korea, let’s also look at which programs are best to use for award redemptions.

All Nippon Airways (ANA) Mileage Club

As with most award redemptions to Asia, we’ll start with ANA Mileage Club. The program offers a ton of value, including numerous transfer partners, some of the best redemption rates, and the ability to book stopovers. However, ANA levies fuel surcharges on most partner airlines.

ANA is a Star Alliance member, so you can fly several airlines to Seoul, including Asiana Airlines and United Airlines. You could also fly other Star Alliance airlines like ANA, which would require a connection. For this guide, we will focus on the nonstop routes on Asiana and United.

ANA has 3 zone-based award charts, including a separate chart for partner awards. Mileage Club also prices its flights based on seasonality (low, regular, and high), although partner redemptions do not follow seasonality rules.

On its award chart, ANA places South Korea in Zone 2 and the U.S. in Zone 6. Here is the round-trip Star Alliance partner award pricing between the zones:

These are some of the best rates for any award, especially in premium cabins. For example, the 130,000 points ANA charges for round-trip business class awards between the U.S. and South Korea is less than what many other programs charge for a one-way award.

However, it is worth noting that ANA does levy fuel surcharges, which can make the award redemptions not worth pursuing in some cases.

Generally, you get the most value primarily when redeeming for business or first class. The cost of taxes and fees diminishes much of the value of economy awards.

Here are some examples of routes you can take:

• Los Angeles (LAX) – Seoul (ICN) round-trip for 130,000 ANA miles plus taxes and fees in Asiana business class
• San Francisco (SFO) – Seoul (ICN) round-trip for 130,000 ANA miles plus taxes and fees in United Polaris business class

ANA’s website enables award bookings to be completed online. Follow these steps to do so:

1. Go to ANA’s website.
2. Click ANA Mileage Club on the top right of the homepage.
3. Click International, then Award Reservation. Log in with your ANA Mileage Club number and password.
4. Type in the desired cities, dates of travel, number of passengers, and cabin class. After that information is filled out, click Search. (ANA transfer times are not instant. Be sure to account for this when booking award flights.)
5. Finish your booking by paying for taxes and fees.

Earning ANA Mileage Club Miles

Generally speaking, earning ANA miles is quite easy, as ANA is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy.

American Express Membership Rewards transfer at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio, and with every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points that you transfer, you receive 5,000 bonus miles.

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• You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
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The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Gold Card is a game-changer.

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Pros & Cons

Pros

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• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No lounge access

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Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
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Emirates Skywards

The following award redemption method is not well-known but extremely effective. Emirates is not a member of any of the 3 major airline alliances, but it does have partnerships with individual airlines, including Korean Air. Thanks to this partnership, you can use Emirates Skywards miles to book flights on Korean Air.

Emirates is known for offering a phenomenal first-class product, and its frequent flyer program can offer a great redemption opportunity. Emirates has a distance-based award chart for Korean Air awards using Emirates Skywards.

Here is the one-way distance pricing:

For travel on Korean Air, this is one way to attain business class awards using miles. Although Emirates Skywards levies fuel surcharges, the miles are incredibly easy to earn.

Hot Tip:

Check out our definitive guide to Korean Air’s nonstop U.S. routes.

You can search for award availability directly on Emirates:

1. Visit the Emirates website.
2. Log in to your Skywards account.
3. Click Search Flights and toggle Classic Rewards.
4. Put in the necessary travel information, including departure and arrival airports, dates, and how many passengers.
5. Complete the award booking by providing your credit card information to pay for the taxes and fees and pay the appropriate mileage cost.

Here are examples of routes you can take:

• Chicago (ORD) – Seoul (ICN) one-way for 125,000 Emirates miles plus taxes and fees for Korean Air business class
• Honolulu (HNL) – Seoul (ICN) one-way for 92,500 Emirates miles plus taxes and fees for Korean Air business class
• San Francisco (SFO) – Seoul (ICN) one-way for 105,000 Emirates miles plus taxes and fees for Korean Air business class

Earning Emirates Skywards Miles

Emirates Skywards is a transfer partner of several transferable programs, including American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, Capital One Miles, Brex Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Aside from Marriott Bonvoy, all transfer partners transfer at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy transfers at a 3:1 ratio. For every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer to Emirates Skywards, you receive a 5,000-mile bonus.

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The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
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Cons

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• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

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• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
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Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

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Cons

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• Member FDIC

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• APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
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Hot Tip:

Transferable rewards programs like Amex Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards often have transfer bonuses to certain airline and hotel loyalty programs.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Another program worth considering for award flights between the U.S. and South Korea is Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan. The program offers some incredible redemption rates on partner airlines and allows for stopovers on one-way itineraries.

Alaska Airlines is a member of Oneworld, along with American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and other carriers. This means that you can use your Alaska Airlines miles for redemptions on American Airlines. In addition to its Oneworld partners, Alaska also has a partnership with Korean Air that’s not part of a larger alliance. Thanks to these partnerships, you can use the program to fly on either American Airlines or Korean Air.

Over the years, Alaska’s frequent flyer program has undergone significant devaluations. In early 2024, Alaska Airlines’ new award charts went live with zone- and distance-based pricing.

Here is the current Asia-Pacific award chart, which includes travel from the United States to Asia-Pacific (including Seoul):

Here are some examples of routes you can take:

• Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) – Seoul (ICN) one-way for 75,000 Alaska miles plus taxes and fees for American Airlines business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Seoul (ICN) one-way for 75,000 Alaska miles plus taxes and fees for Korean Air business class
• San Francisco (SFO) – Seoul (ICN) one-way for 75,000 Alaska miles plus taxes and fees for Korean Air business class

It’s worth noting that award availability on partner airlines can be tough to find. Still, if you can find award space, follow these steps to book your award ticket:

1. Head to the Alaska Airlines website.
2. Search for award flights on Alaska Airlines.
3. Book the flight online.
4. Pay the taxes and fees that include a partner award flight booking fee.

Earning Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Miles

It can be difficult to earn Alaska Airlines miles, as the Mileage Plan program has limited transfer partners. MileagePlan is a 1:1 transfer partner of Bilt Rewards.

MileagePlan is also a transfer partner of Marriott Bonvoy. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio, and with every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points that you transfer, you receive 5,000 bonus miles.

You can also transfer HawaiianMiles miles to Alaska Mileage Plan at a 1:1 ratio.

Alaska Airlines also offers a co-branded credit card issued by Bank of America.

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Alaska Airlines Visa Signature^® credit card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Provides the potential to earn plenty of miles to fly with Alaska Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when you spend at least $6,000 a year on the card!

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature^® credit card

Provides the potential to earn plenty of miles to fly with Alaska Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when you spend at least $6,000 a year on the card!

Welcome Offer

Buy one ticket, get one for just the taxes and fees ($0 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) and get 50,000 bonus miles with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.

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UP's Offer Valuation*:

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Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

With the Alaska Signature card in your wallet, you can get great perks and earn miles at the same time. This is a win-win if Alaska is the airline you prefer to fly with! Plus, its annual companion fare is a great benefit for traveling couples.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x miles per $1 spent on Alaska purchases
• 2x miles per $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services
• 1x mile per $1 spent on all other purchases

Cons

• Charges a $95 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

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Card Highlights

• Buy one ticket, get one for just the taxes and fees ($0 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) and get 50,000 bonus miles with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Get a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Free checked bag. Any cardholder who purchases airfare with their card, and up to 6 additional guests traveling on the same reservation, may check their first bag free.
• Enjoy priority boarding so you can get to your seat quicker, when you pay for your flight with your card.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America^® account.
• A faster way to earn status with your Alaska Airlines credit card. Throughout 2024, for every $10,000 you spend on purchases, you’ll automatically earn 4,000 elite-qualifying miles (EQMs), up to 20,000 EQMs total.
• Enjoy 20% back on all Alaska Airlines inflight purchases and get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership when you pay with your new card.
• With oneworld^® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights when booking with miles or a companion fare.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees.^†

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24% - 28.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Frequent Flyer Program

Avianca LifeMiles

Another program worth looking at for Star Alliance partner awards is Avianca LifeMiles. The program devalued its U.S. to Asia award rates yet still remains an excellent option.

LifeMiles also has some interesting pricing quirks, like mixed-cabin awards. In addition to the great pricing, LifeMiles doesn’t pass on fuel surcharges on award flights.

You can use your LifeMiles to book travel on any Star Alliance partner. LifeMiles uses a standard zone-based award chart for most flights and charges between 85,000 and 90,000 LifeMiles for a one-way business class ticket between the U.S. and Asia on Star Alliance partner airlines.

To book award travel on Avianca LifeMiles, follow these directions:

1. Visit the Avianca LifeMiles site.
2. Log in to your LifeMiles account by entering your LifeMiles number and password.
3. Change the language as necessary by clicking the flag icon in the top-right corner.
4. Click “Fly” on the top banner of the landing page.
5. Type in your flight information, including airports, number of passengers, and class of booking.
6. Select your flights and pay with your miles, along with any taxes and fees, to complete your reservation.

Here is an example of a great redemption you can make:

• Seattle (SEA) – Seoul (ICN) one-way in Asiana Airlines business class for 90,000 LifeMiles plus taxes and fees

Earning Avianca LifeMiles

It’s easy to earn Avianca LifeMiles, as the program is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One Miles, Citi ThankYou Rewards, Brex Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, and Wells Fargo Rewards.

Aside from Marriott Bonvoy, all transferable rewards programs transfer to LifeMiles at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio.

Hot Tip:

LifeMiles routinely offers massive sales when you purchase LifeMiles. Although we don’t generally recommend purchasing points and miles, buying LifeMiles outright can make for some cheap first and business class redemptions.

Recommended Capital One Cards

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Apply Now(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-840)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Apply Now(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$95

APR

Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Limited elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Apply Now(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Welcome Offer

Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel.

20,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$360

Annual Fee

$0

APR

Purchases: 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months; variable 19.24% - 29.24% thereafter

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No annual fee (rates & fees)
• No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)
• Ability to use transfer partners

Cons

• Weak earn rate at 1.25x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
• No luxury travel or elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.24% - 29.24% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months; variable 19.24% - 29.24% thereafter
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Air Canada Aeroplan

Another great program for Star Alliance partner awards is Air Canada Aeroplan. The loyalty program has a published award chart for partner awards, has plenty of partners both in and outside of Star Alliance, allows for stopovers for just 5,000 points, and does not pass on fuel surcharges on partner awards.

Aeroplan divides the world into 4 distinct regions for its award chart: North America, the Atlantic, the Pacific, and South America.

Award pricing depends on the zones you fly between and the overall distance flown. To know exactly how many points your award ticket costs, look at the zones you are flying between.

Here is the award chart for flights between the North America and Pacific zones. Prices are based on distance:

Since distance must be counted for Aeroplan awards, it’s important to know how many miles you fly between airports. A tool like Great Circle Mapper can show you the exact distance.

According to the award chart, you can book flights within the 5,001-7,500-mile distance band for 50,000 points in economy or 75,000 points in business class one-way.

This pricing represents great value, especially for business class. Nonstop flights between Seoul and Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), and Las Vegas (LAS) can all be booked at this price.

Here are the steps you need to follow to book online with Aeroplan:

1. Make your way to Air Canada’s homepage.
2. In the top right corner, click Sign in.
3. Log in using your Aeroplan number and password.
4. On the homepage’s search box, remember to toggle the slider that says Points.
5. Select Round-trip or One-way for the trip, fill in the search box, and click Find.
6. Find a suitable flight, redeem your Aeroplan points, and use a credit card to book your Air Canada flight.

Earning Air Canada Aeroplan Points

It’s incredibly easy to earn Air Canada Aeroplan points, as the program is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One Miles, and Marriott Bonvoy.

All programs, except Marriott Bonvoy, transfer to Aeroplan at a 1:1 rate. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio to Aeroplan, and for every 60,000 Bonvoy points you transfer, you get a 5,000-mile bonus.

You can also get the co-branded Aeroplan^® Credit Card, issued by Chase, which earns 3x points on dining, groceries, and Air Canada purchases and 1x points everywhere else.

Korean Air Skypass

Finally, another program worth considering is Korean Air’s frequent flyer program, Korean Air Skypass. Korean Air is a SkyTeam member alongside Delta Air Lines, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic.

The Korean Air Skypass program has multiple award charts, including 1 for Korean Air flight awards and another for SkyTeam flight awards.

When it comes to Korean Air redemptions on Korean Air-operated flights, prices are subject to peak and off-peak pricing. This means that award flights during off-peak dates require fewer miles.

Here is the award pricing for Korean Air redemptions between the U.S. and Korea on Korean metal:

Korean Air also has a separate award chart for SkyTeam redemptions. Unlike on Korean Air metal, awards on SkyTeam partners are not subject to seasonal pricing.

Here is the round-trip award pricing for Korean Air redemptions between the U.S. and Korea on SkyTeam partners, including Delta Air Lines (which offers nonstop routes between the U.S. and Seoul):

Following are great redemptions you can make:

• Atlanta (ATL) – Seoul (ICN) one-way, during off-peak season in Korean Air business class for 62,500 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Seoul (ICN) one-way, during off-peak season, in Korean Air first class for 80,000 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees
• New York (JFK) – Seoul (ICN) round-trip, during off-peak season, in Korean Air first class for 160,000 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees
• Seattle (SEA) – Seoul (ICN) one-way, during off-peak season in Korean Air business class for 62,500 Korean Air miles plus taxes and fees

Here are the steps to book an award flight with Korean Air:

1. Search for flights on Air France-KLM or Delta.
2. Confirm the same award availability on Korean Air.
3. Book the award flight online.
4. Pay the taxes and fees.

Hot Tip:

Korean Air’s first class is among the best first-class products in the sky. Check out our guide on the best ways to book Korean Air first class.

Earning Korean Air Skypass Miles

Earning Korean Air Skypass miles is relatively difficult, as the program only has 1 transfer partner, Marriott Bonvoy. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to Korean Air Skypass at a 3:1 ratio

Recommended Marriott Bonvoy Cards

Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 Bonus Points plus 1 Free Night Award after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card! Free Night Award valued up to 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees.

60,000 points + 1 Free Night Award

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $770

Annual Fee

$0

APR

19.99% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
• 2x points at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services
• 5 Elite Night Credits each year

Cons

• Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
• Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 Bonus Points plus 1 Free Night Award after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Free Night Award valued up to 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card from Chase^®!
• Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Card.
• Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services.
• 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Travel now, pay later - Break up purchases into equal monthly payments with no interest plus no plan fees on qualifying travel purchases. Terms apply.
• Pay Yourself Back^® - Redeem Marriott Bonvoy^® points for a statement credit to cover qualifying travel purchases made directly with airlines or at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, up to $750 total in redemptions per year.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Welcome Offer

Our best offer is back! Earn 5 Free Nights (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $5,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening with your Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. Certain hotels have resort fees.

5 Free Night Awards

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,750

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.99% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
• Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
• Automatic Silver Elite Status

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Our best offer is back! Earn 5 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after qualifying purchases.
• Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
• Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
• 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
• Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Card.
• Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn up to 135,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points. Earn 85,000 points after you spend $5,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Up to 135,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $945

Annual Fee

$250

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
• 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 135,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points. Earn 85,000 points after you spend $5,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®.
• Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
• Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Marriott Bonvoy^® 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®.
• With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy^® Gold Elite Status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy^® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit.
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy^® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Plan It^® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
• $250 Annual Fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn up to 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points. Earn 100,000 points after you spend $6,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Up to 150,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,050

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
• 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
• 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points. Earn 100,000 points after you spend $6,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy^® Platinum Elite Status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when the stay is booked with a Qualifying Rate at hotels that participate in Marriott Bonvoy, subject to availability upon check-in.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy^® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy^® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy^® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Enroll in Priority Pass Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection*, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. *Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Other Options for Flying to Korea

Of course, many other programs can be considered regarding award redemptions. These include Air France-KLM Flying Blue, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, and British Airways.

However, these programs all have at least 1 major downfall that makes them not worth considering, such as unfavorable redemption rates, dynamic pricing, or a lack of viable transfer partners.

Final Thoughts

Although cash fares to Asia can be quite expensive, there are tons of ways to book award travel to South Korea. Fortunately, quite a few airlines operate nonstop routes between Seoul and major airports here in the U.S.

As this article has covered, there are several excellent programs for booking an award flight to South Korea. Most of the programs covered in this article are in Star Alliance, as partner award rates are some of the best.

When it comes to award redemptions, it’s important to earn transferable points in programs such as American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards. These points can transfer to different airline loyalty programs, allowing for more award redemptions.