Transport
AirAsia Discontinues Don Mueang-Incheon Route Amid K-ETA Challenges
After 12 years of service, AirAsia is ending its direct flights between Bangkok and Seoul, citing the impact of South Korea's K-ETA entry requirements on passenger demand.
According to a report by Prachachat Business on September 16, 2026, AirAsia has announced the cancellation of its direct flight route connecting Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok to Incheon International Airport in Seoul. This decision marks the end of 12 years of service on this route.
The airline attributed the discontinuation to a significant decline in passenger demand, which it linked to the strict enforcement of South Korea’s K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) system. The report notes that many Thai travelers are increasingly opting for alternative destinations, such as China and Japan, which currently offer visa-free entry for Thai citizens, rather than navigating the complexities of the South Korean entry process.
For travelers and residents, this change reduces the availability of low-cost direct connectivity between Thailand and South Korea. Those planning travel to South Korea should be aware that flight options may become more limited or potentially more expensive as capacity decreases.
While the airline has confirmed the termination of the route, specific details regarding the final date of operation and the handling of existing bookings for passengers affected by this change remain to be clarified by the carrier. Travelers are advised to monitor official airline announcements for updates regarding their specific travel arrangements.