Overview
Korean Air allows minor name corrections on tickets to fix spelling errors or update names due to legal reasons, ensuring the name matches the passenger’s government-issued identification. Full name changes to transfer tickets to another person are not permitted, as tickets are non-transferable. Changes are subject to specific conditions and fees, depending on the ticket type and fare rules.
Eligibility for Name Corrections
- Minor Spelling Errors: Corrections of up to three characters in the first, middle, or last name are allowed to fix typos, often free within a short period after booking.
- Legal Name Changes: Changes due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons are permitted with supporting documentation, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- Middle Names: Adding or correcting a middle name to match the passport is allowed, though enforcement varies, especially for international flights.
- Non-Transferable Tickets: Tickets cannot be transferred to another person; corrections are only for the original passenger.
- Infant Tickets: Name corrections for lap infants under a certain age without purchased seats are typically free, provided documentation is submitted.
- Skypass Accounts: The name on the Skypass mileage account must match the passport exactly for mileage accrual.
Process for Name Corrections
Name corrections can be requested through the following methods:
- Online: For minor corrections, visit the My Trips section on the Korean Air website or mobile app. Enter the booking reference and last name, select the booking, and follow prompts to correct the name. Documentation may be required for legal changes.
- Customer Support: Contact Korean Air’s Customer Service Center via phone or email, providing booking details and supporting documents. For Skypass account corrections, email specific contact addresses with a copy of the passport.
- Airport Counter: Visit a Korean Air ticket counter at the airport with valid ID and documentation. Minor corrections may be processed at check-in, subject to time constraints.
- Third-Party Bookings: For tickets booked through travel agencies, changes must be requested through the original booking channel, which may involve additional fees.
Fees and Conditions
- Minor corrections of up to three characters are free if requested within a one-day period after booking for tickets purchased directly from Korean Air.
- Beyond the initial period, a fee may apply for name corrections, typically a fixed amount for international bookings and a lower amount for domestic flights within South Korea.
- Legal name changes may require ticket reissuance, incurring a reissue fee and any fare difference if the new fare is higher.
- Corrections are not permitted after check-in, for partially used tickets, or if the passenger type (adult, child, infant) is changed.
- Only one correction per passenger is allowed per ticket. Additional corrections require cancellation and rebooking, subject to cancellation fees.
- For codeshare or interline flights, the operating carrier’s policy may apply, and coordination with the booking agency is required.
Important Notes
- Passengers must provide valid identification (e.g., passport) and legal documents for corrections, particularly for legal name changes.
- The name on the ticket must match the passport exactly for international flights to avoid boarding or immigration issues, though middle name enforcement may be lenient in some cases.
- Requests should be made well in advance, ideally within a one-day period for free corrections, to ensure processing and avoid complications.
- For third-party bookings, coordination with the agency is critical, as Korean Air may not process changes directly.
- Check fare rules and contact Korean Air’s Customer Service Center or visit the official website for the latest policy details and fee information.
