Air Seoul Baggage Policy

Whether you’re planning a short domestic hop or a longer international journey with Air Seoul, understanding the airline’s luggage guidelines is essential to avoid unexpected fees or delays. The Air Seoul Baggage Policy outlines specific rules for cabin and checked luggage, including size, weight limits, excess charges, and item restrictions. With fare-based allowances and recent updates to baggage terms, it’s important for travelers to review the latest details before packing. This guide breaks down the current Air Seoul Baggage Policy to help you navigate your trip confidently and compliantly.

Air Seoul Carry-on Baggage Guidelines

As per the Air Seoul Baggage Policy, passengers are permitted to bring carry-on baggage into the aircraft cabin, which remains under their own care and responsibility throughout the flight. This type of baggage is not checked in but kept with the traveler during the journey, either stored in the overhead bin or under the seat.

Standard Allowance

Each traveler is allowed to carry one cabin bag and one additional personal item, provided the combined total weight does not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs). The maximum permitted dimensions for the main carry-on bag are:

• Length: 55 cm
• Width: 40 cm
• Height: 20 cm
• Total (L + W + H): 115 cm

Both items combined must stay within the total carry-on weight allowance, meaning passengers cannot exceed the 10 kg limit even if they bring two smaller pieces.

Personal Items Allowed in Addition to Cabin Bags

Passengers may bring one of the following items in addition to their main carry-on bag:

• A laptop, handbag, or small briefcase
• Books or compact duty-free purchases
• Baby formula or food required during the flight
• Canes or crutches for individuals with mobility needs
• Guide dogs for visually impaired travelers (subject to guidelines)

These additional items should be compact enough to fit under the seat or in the overhead bin without causing inconvenience to other passengers.

Air Seoul Checked Baggage Regulations

The Air Seoul Baggage Policy defines clear parameters for checked luggage in terms of size, weight, fare type, and applicable charges. Whether flying on a domestic or international route, passengers must ensure their checked items fall within the permitted limits to avoid additional fees at the airport.

Size and Dimension Limits

All checked baggage must adhere to the maximum size of 203 cm (total of length + width + height). Any item exceeding this dimension may be refused or incur handling limitations. Oversized luggage should be repacked or declared to prevent issues during loading.

Free Checked Baggage Allowance (Updated as of November 1, 2023)

Baggage allowances vary by fare class and travel route. Here’s a breakdown based on the latest update in the Air Seoul Baggage Policy:

Domestic Flights

• Regular/Discount Fare (Adults/Children):
  • Weight: Up to 15 kg (33 lbs)
  • Size: Within 203 cm combined (L + W + H)
• Special Fare: Same allowance as above
• Infants: No separate baggage allowance; however, one infant aid item (stroller, cradle, or car seat) is allowed at no charge

International Flights

• Regular/Discount Fare (Adults/Children):
  • Weight: Up to 15 kg (33 lbs)
  • Size: Within 203 cm
• Infants: Entitled to one free bag up to 10 kg (22 lbs), plus one infant aid
• Special Fare: No free checked baggage offered for either adults or infants

Note: Flights departing from Japan may have unique baggage rules, subject to approval from Japanese aviation authorities.

Infant Equipment Allowance As Per Air Seoul’s Baggage Policy 

As part of its family-friendly approach, the Air Seoul Baggage Policy allows all passengers traveling with infants or small children to carry one piece of infant equipment free of charge—regardless of the flight route or fare type. This additional item is not included in the standard baggage allowance and does not affect the total weight or number of checked items a passenger is entitled to.

Accepted infant aids include the following:

• Collapsible or foldable stroller – lightweight and easy to stow
• Infant cradle or bassinet – must be airline-approved and securely packed
• Certified child safety seat or car seat – used onboard or checked at no extra cost

This provision ensures that parents can travel more comfortably and with the necessary baby gear, without incurring additional charges. These items will either be tagged and stored in the aircraft hold or accepted at the boarding gate depending on size and operational considerations.

Extra Charges for Checked Baggage at the Boarding Gate

The Air Seoul Baggage Policy strongly advises passengers to check in all their baggage in advance. Items not registered at the check-in counter and instead brought to the boarding gate for check-in are subject to per-piece surcharges, regardless of whether they fall within the free baggage weight limit. These gate fees are separate and in addition to any overweight charges that may apply.

Domestic Flights – Boarding Gate Check-in Fee

Effective from June 1, 2021, Air Seoul applies a flat fee for luggage presented at the gate:

• ₩10,000 per item for baggage between 1–23 kg

Passengers should note that each gate-checked item must adhere strictly to the weight and dimension guidelines. Any item exceeding 23 kg will not be accepted and must be either repacked or checked earlier at the counter.

International Flights – Boarding Gate Check-in Fee

For international routes, a consistent flat-rate policy applies. Effective from April 1, 2019, passengers will incur the following fee per extra gate-checked item:

• ₩20,000
• Or equivalent: JPY 2,000 / CNY 140 / USD 20

These charges apply per piece and must be paid even if the passenger has not exceeded the standard allowance by weight. This means that simply checking in an unregistered bag at the gate triggers this fee.

Air Seoul Overweight Baggage & Repacking Rules

Under the Air Seoul Baggage Policy, the standard weight limit for checked baggage is 15 kg (33 lbs) per piece. While this allowance applies broadly across fare classes and routes, there are stricter limitations in place when it comes to handling overweight luggage, especially at the boarding gate.

Here are the key points travelers must keep in mind:

• Baggage over 23 kg is not accepted at the boarding gate.

If your bag exceeds this weight, it will be rejected at the gate. You will be required to either repack the contents into multiple pieces or check the item at the main counter, if still available.

• Repacking is mandatory if the baggage surpasses allowed limits.

Passengers are expected to redistribute weight among other bags or reduce the contents before it can be accepted for transport.

• Packaging must meet safety standards.

Bags that are damaged, loosely secured, or not appropriately packed may be deemed unfit for loading. According to the Air Seoul Baggage Policy, such items are transported solely at the passenger’s own risk, and the airline may deny liability for resulting damage or loss.

Overweight baggage can cause operational disruptions, pose risks during manual handling, and delay baggage delivery times. To avoid these complications, travelers are strongly encouraged to weigh their bags before heading to the airport and follow packaging guidelines closely.

Transporting Musical Instruments On Air Seoul Flights – Updated Regulations from November 1, 2024

The Air Seoul Baggage Policy offers clear guidance for musicians traveling with their instruments, accommodating both small and large musical equipment under specific size and security conditions:

Small Musical Instruments (e.g., Violins, Flutes, Ukuleles)

Passengers are allowed to bring small instruments such as violin into the cabin without purchasing an extra seat, provided:

• The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) do not exceed 115 cm
• The instrument fits securely in the overhead compartment or under the seat
• The total carry-on weight, including the instrument and personal item, remains within the 10 kg limit

These instruments are treated as part of the standard carry-on baggage allowance, and no additional fees are applied if size and weight conditions are met.

Larger Instruments (e.g., guitars, cellos, gayageum, geomungo): 

For larger instruments that exceed the standard carry-on dimensions but are still under 155 cm in height, Air Seoul allows them to be transported in the cabin only with the purchase of an extra seat. Key rules include:

• The instrument must be securely fastened to the seat during the flight using a seatbelt extension provided by the airline
• It must not pose an obstruction to other passengers or interfere with emergency procedures
• Storage is not allowed in emergency exit or bulkhead rows, as no items can be placed under these seats

If the instrument is oversized or does not meet cabin safety standards, it must be checked in as baggage and will be subject to oversized baggage fees or potential denial if it exceeds maximum allowable limits.

Important Seating Restriction

Passengers sitting in the first row (bulkhead seats) or emergency exit rows are not permitted to store any item—including musical instruments—under their seats due to safety regulations. It is recommended that musicians confirm seat assignments in advance if planning to bring instruments into the cabin.

Air Seoul Baggage Restrictions on Cabin Items

To ensure safety and comfort for all passengers, certain travel accessories and personal items are either restricted or prohibited from use in the cabin:

• Not allowed to use in-flight (but may be carried on): Bed Boxes, Fly Legs Up, Fly-Tot, Plane Pal, inflatable cubes, and other accessories that obstruct aisles or exits.
• Strictly prohibited:
  • Sharp objects (knives, scissors)
  • Firearms or toy replicas
  • Golf clubs or blunt tools
  • Liquids exceeding international safety limits
  • Items deemed hazardous by airport or country-specific aviation rules

Some exceptions apply, but final authority lies with the departure airport’s security regulations.

Liquid Restrictions on International Flights

When traveling internationally, the Air Seoul Baggage Policy follows the global standard on liquid restrictions in hand luggage:

• Maximum container size: 100 ml
• Packaging: All liquids must be placed in one transparent, resealable plastic bag (max 1-liter capacity)
• Quantity limit: One liquid bag per passenger
• Allowed exceptions: Baby formula, medicine, and dietary liquids required during flight

Liquids purchased at duty-free shops within the airport must be sealed in tamper-evident bags. However, when transferring through airports in other countries, these items may still be subject to inspection or seizure depending on local policies.

Lithium Battery Guidelines

Due to their classification as dangerous goods, lithium batteries are subject to strict transport rules:

For wheelchairs powered by lithium batteries:

• If the battery is not detachable, it may only be checked in (carry-on prohibited) and requires airline approval in advance.
• If only the battery is removable, it may be carried onboard if secured against short circuits, but cannot be placed in checked luggage.

Devices like electric scooters, hoverboards, and wireless hair irons with non-removable batteries are entirely banned from transport in any form.

Air Seoul Priority Baggage Handling (Optional Add-On Service)

To enhance convenience and reduce wait times at arrival airports, the Air Seoul Baggage Policy offers an optional Priority Baggage Service. This add-on allows checked baggage to be tagged for expedited handling, ensuring that it is among the first items delivered at the baggage carousel.

Service Overview

Key Notes:

• The Priority Baggage Service must be purchased at the airport on the day of departure.
• It is non-refundable, even in cases of flight delays or baggage delivery disruptions.
• This service does not apply to special baggage, such as:
  • Wheelchairs
  • Baby strollers
  • Medical devices
  • Sporting equipment

Even with priority tagging, the Air Seoul Baggage Policy clarifies that external factors—such as airport equipment limitations, weather conditions, or operational delays—may still impact the delivery time of baggage. Therefore, while priority handling improves efficiency, it does not guarantee immediate retrieval in all cases.

Air Seoul Excess Baggage Fees

The Air Seoul Baggage Policy offers flexible prepaid baggage options and outlines clear excess baggage charges for both domestic and international travelers. Whether you’re flying within South Korea or abroad, understanding how and when to purchase additional baggage can help you save significantly compared to airport fees.

Domestic Flights – Prepaid vs. Airport Excess Baggage Charges

Passengers traveling on domestic routes can choose to purchase extra baggage in advance or pay at the airport. The fee structure is based on weight increments and purchase timing.

(Current airport fee is ₩2,000 per KG until Dec 31, 2024)

Tip: Buying prepaid baggage in 5 kg blocks is more economical than paying per kilogram at the airport. To avoid inflated last-minute charges, passengers are advised to estimate baggage needs ahead of their trip.

International Flights – Prepaid Baggage & Airport Purchase Fees

When flying internationally, the Air Seoul Baggage Policy allows travelers to pre-purchase 15 kg of extra baggage, with variable pricing based on route and time of purchase. Additional baggage over this amount can be added in 5 kg increments (prepaid) or 1 kg units (at the airport).

Routes & Prepaid Rates (First 15 KG)

After purchasing the first 15 kg, you can add:

• Additional 5 kg (prepaid) at route-specific rates
• Per 1 kg (at airport) as needed

Note: To modify your purchased baggage weight, you must first cancel the original purchase and then rebook the new baggage weight category.

Airport Rates for Extra Baggage (Effective August 1, 2024)

For international travelers who choose to pay at the airport, the updated per-kilogram fee applies alongside the standard 15 kg purchase. 

Exchange Reference:

• ₩1,000 = USD 1 = JPY 100 = CNY 7 = HKD 8 = MYR 4
• Local currency is accepted at the point of departure, except in Southeast Asia where USD only is accepted.

Special Excess Baggage Fees – Sports and Oversized Equipment

Under the Air Seoul Baggage Policy, travelers planning to carry sports gear or oversized items must be aware of special handling rules and applicable fees. These charges are separate from standard baggage allowances and may apply even if the total weight of all checked items remains within permitted limits.

Golf Equipment Regulations

Passengers bringing golf gear must adhere to specific packaging and transport conditions:

• Golf clubs must be checked in — they are not permitted as carry-on items due to aviation safety laws.
• To minimize the risk of damage, all golf clubs must be placed in a hard-shell protective case.
• Air Seoul is not liable for damages if clubs are packed in soft or unsecured bags.
• If the total checked baggage weight (including the golf bag) exceeds the free allowance, standard excess baggage fees apply.
• Items exceeding 277 cm (combined length + width + height) may be refused for carriage entirely.

Other Sports Equipment Guidelines

The Air Seoul Baggage Policy classifies several types of outdoor and recreational gear under the special sports equipment category. These include:

• Skis
• Snowboards
• Surfboards
• Windsurfing gear
• Diving equipment
• Bicycles

Fee Structure

Even if the combined weight of these items is within the free baggage limit, the base handling fee will still apply for select equipment (like surfboards and skis). Golf bags, on the other hand, are treated as regular checked baggage unless the free allowance is surpassed.

Oversized equipment measuring more than 277 cm (total dimensions) may be declined by the airline, so pre-measuring and confirming size compliance is highly recommended.

International Flight – Japan Route (Discount Fare)

Passengers flying from Korea to Japan on a discount fare under the Air Seoul Baggage Policy should be aware that free checked baggage is not included, making advance purchase essential to avoid high excess charges. Below is a cost breakdown for a typical baggage scenario.

Baggage Setup:

• 1 standard suitcase weighing 10 kg
• 1 golf bag weighing 10 kg

Fee Calculation:

• Free baggage allowance under discount fare = 0 kg
• Must purchase:
  • First 15 kg → ₩50,000
  • Additional 5 kg → 5 × ₩12,000 = ₩60,000
• Golf equipment handling fee: ₩20,000
• Total Fee Payable: ₩130,000

Lost or Damaged Baggage – Reporting & Compensation Under the Air Seoul Baggage Policy

Despite best efforts, baggage may sometimes go missing or arrive damaged. The Air Seoul Baggage Policy outlines clear procedures for reporting lost or damaged items and offers guidance on compensation eligibility and exclusions. Passengers are advised to act within specific timelines to ensure proper investigation and resolution.

Lost Items – In-Flight and Airport Procedures

If you’ve left an item onboard an Air Seoul flight, the airline retains such items for up to 30 days. However, perishable items may be discarded earlier due to spoilage or hygiene concerns.

For items lost within the airport (not in the cabin), passengers should directly contact the lost and found center at the relevant airport.

For in-flight losses, passengers may be asked to complete an In-Flight Lost and Found Registration Form, which can typically be obtained through the airline’s customer service.

Damaged or Delayed Baggage – Reporting Timelines

Passengers are encouraged to inspect their baggage immediately upon arrival. If damage, loss, or delay is discovered, the Air Seoul Baggage Policy recommends notifying the most recent carrier on the itinerary—often Air Seoul itself—within the following timeframes:

• Damaged baggage: Must be reported within 7 days of receiving the item.
• Lost or delayed baggage: Must be reported within 21 days from the date the baggage was originally checked.

To initiate a claim, travelers may be required to submit a Damaged Baggage Registration Form along with any relevant documents.

Baggage Compensation – When You’re Eligible

Air Seoul will consider compensation if liability is established. The amount and eligibility depend on whether:

• The value of the items was declared in advance (with a valuation fee paid)
• Excess baggage fees were paid (in which case compensation is linked to the declared weight)

In general, compensation aligns with international aviation standards (like the Montreal Convention) unless local laws stipulate otherwise.

Also Read: Indigo Airlines Baggage Policy

Items Excluded from Compensation

The Air Seoul Baggage Policy outlines several situations and item types not eligible for compensation:

1. Situations Beyond Airline Control
   • Natural disasters, acts of terrorism, or force majeure
   • Airline took all reasonable precautions or was unable to act
2. Passenger-Related Causes
   • Damage due to improper packing or overstuffing
   • Items lost due to passenger negligence or mishandling
3. Security Check and Handling Damage
   • Scratches, dents, and minor wear from normal baggage processing
   • Damage during security screening (e.g., broken locks, x-ray film exposure)
4. Prohibited or High-Value Items

Items that should be carried on board and not checked in, including:

• Fragile or perishable goods (e.g., cosmetics, alcohol, honey)
• Musical instruments, unless properly declared
• Medical supplies
• Electronics: laptops, phones, cameras, data drives
• Valuables: cash, jewelry, contracts, passports, antiques, ID cards

Important: Air Seoul does not accept responsibility for the loss or damage of these items if transported as checked baggage against guidelines.

Conclusion 

The Air Seoul Baggage Policy provides travelers with a transparent and structured guide for handling carry-on, checked, and excess baggage across both domestic and international routes. Whether you’re traveling with standard luggage, sports equipment, or items requiring special handling, understanding the airline’s rules can help avoid unexpected fees or delays. By adhering to size, weight, and declaration requirements, passengers can ensure a smooth travel experience. For specific queries or pre-approval of special baggage, it’s always best to contact Air Seoul directly or consult the airline’s official website before departure.

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