How to Join Korean Air as Flight Attendants
Korean Air has recently resumed hiring foreign cabin crew members after a four-year hiatus, providing exciting opportunities for individuals from various countries to join one of the leading airlines in Asia. Here’s a guide on how foreigners can apply to become part of the Korean Air team.
How Foreigners Can Join Korean Air: A Guide to the Application Process

Understanding the Recruitment Process
Korean Air conducts open recruitment for foreign flight attendants periodically. The most recent recruitment cycle is currently underway, with the final selected crew members expected to join the company in December. It is essential for applicants to stay updated on the airline’s official announcements regarding recruitment timelines and requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
While specific eligibility criteria may vary, candidates generally need to meet the following requirements:
Age and Education: Applicants should typically be at least 20 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Higher education may be preferred.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is crucial, and knowledge of Korean or other languages can be an advantage.
Customer Service Skills: Experience in customer service or hospitality is often beneficial, as the role requires excellent interpersonal skills.
Application Submission
Interested candidates can apply through the Korean Air careers website. The application process usually involves submitting an online application form along with a resume and cover letter. It’s important to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role of a cabin crew member.
Selection Process
Once applications are submitted, the selection process typically includes:
Initial Screening: Applications are reviewed to shortlist candidates based on qualifications and experience.
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews, which could be conducted in person or virtually. This is an opportunity to demonstrate communication skills and cultural understanding.
Assessment: Candidates may undergo assessments to evaluate their suitability for the role, including situational judgment tests and language proficiency evaluations.
Cultural Training Programs
The Airline places a strong emphasis on cultural understanding for its foreign crew members. New hires participate in programs like “Dive into K-style,” which helps them learn about Korean culture, etiquette, and the airline’s values. This training is crucial for providing excellent service to passengers and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Continuous Opportunities
The Airline plans to continue hiring foreign crew members in the coming years, with an aim to recruit an additional 200 foreign staff next year. This ongoing recruitment reflects the airline’s commitment to diversifying its workforce and enhancing its service quality.
Discovering Korean Air: South Korea’s Flag Carrier
Korean Air Lines Co., Ltd. , operating as Korean Air, stands as the flag carrier of South Korea and is the largest airline in the country, distinguished by its extensive fleet size, wide range of international destinations, and numerous international flights. Owned by the Hanjin Group, Korean Air has established itself as a key player in the global aviation industry.
A Rich History
The roots of modern Korean Air can be traced back to March 1, 1969, when the Hanjin Group acquired the government-owned Korean Air Lines, which had been in operation since June 1962. This acquisition marked a significant turning point, allowing the airline to expand and evolve into the major carrier it is today. As a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance and SkyTeam Cargo, Korean Air has solidified its position in the global aviation network.
Recognized Excellence
As of 2024, Korean Air is recognized as one of the top 10 airlines in the world, having earned a prestigious 5-star rating from Skytrax. The airline ranks among the top 20 globally in terms of passengers carried and is also a leading international cargo airline. This recognition reflects Korean Air’s commitment to quality service and operational excellence.
Global Reach
Korean Air operates an extensive network, with its international passenger division and cargo subsidiary serving 126 cities across 44 countries. Domestically, the airline connects 13 destinations within South Korea. The airline’s global headquarters is situated in Seoul, where it employs approximately 20,540 individuals as of December 2014.
A Journey of Transformation
In the late 1990s, Korean Air faced significant challenges, earning a reputation as “an industry pariah” due to a series of fatal crashes and a poor safety record. However, the airline undertook a comprehensive transformation beginning in 2009, focusing on safety improvements and operational enhancements. By investing in safety measures and hiring consultants from industry leaders like Boeing and Delta Air Lines, Korean Air successfully rehabilitated its reputation and established itself as a safe and reliable airline.
Recent Developments
In November 2020, Korean Air announced plans to merge with its competitor, Asiana Airlines. This proposed merger is currently awaiting approval from the U.S. Department of Justice, which will determine the future landscape of the airline industry in South Korea.
Conclusion
Joining Korean Air as a foreign cabin crew member is an exciting opportunity for those looking to work in the aviation industry. By understanding the application process, meeting the eligibility criteria, and preparing for interviews, candidates can increase their chances of becoming part of this prestigious airline.
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With years of experience in international aviation, coupled with a background in travel journalism, I offer a wealth of expertise in the field of tourism. As an avid traveler and enthusiast, I am dedicated to sharing my knowledge and insights to help you embark on unforgettable journeys.