Korean Air Unveils New Branding and Aircraft Livery Ahead of Asiana Merger

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Korean Air has introduced a new aircraft livery and corporate rebranding, marking its first major design update in 41 years. The revamped look debuted on March 10, 2025, at the airline’s headquarters in Seoul, showcased on a Boeing 787-10. This branding refresh aligns with Korean Air’s acquisition of Asiana Airlines, finalized in December 2024, and represents a significant milestone in the airline’s evolution.

The South Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) has been overseeing the integration process between the two airlines, which is expected to fully conclude by January 2027. As part of this transition, the new branding will extend to Asiana’s aircraft once the merger is completed.

Key Changes in Korean Air’s New Branding

The iconic sky-blue fuselage color remains, but with a modern metallic sheen. The word “Korean” now appears in larger, redesigned lettering, replacing the full “Korean Air” title. The taegeuk symbol on the tail has also been reimagined with a dark blue stylized design, offering a more contemporary aesthetic.

Beyond aircraft livery, the rebranding encompasses food menus, flight attendant uniforms, and lounge interiors, reflecting the airline’s commitment to innovation and enhanced passenger experience.

Fleet Repainting and Integration Timeline

Korean Air is prioritizing repainting its own aircraft before the merger’s completion. According to Kenneth Chang, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, all new aircraft deliveries will feature the updated livery.

However, the Asiana fleet will not be repainted until after January 2027, when the integration is finalized. Until then, Asiana will continue operating under its existing branding as a subsidiary of Korean Air.

Aircraft Phaseout Plans Affected by Delivery Delays

Korean Air had planned to phase out its Airbus A380s, Boeing 747-8 passenger jets, and Airbus A220s in 2025. However, due to delays from Boeing and Airbus, these retirements have been postponed. Chairman and CEO Walter Cho confirmed that the airline is waiting for enough new aircraft deliveries before retiring older planes.

Currently, Boeing and Airbus are approximately 20 aircraft behind schedule, delaying fleet modernization efforts. The A380s and 747-8s will continue flying until sufficient replacements arrive, ensuring network stability.

Korean Air’s Vision for the Future

As the airline expands its international footprint, the new branding symbolizes a new era for Korean Air and Asiana. The South Korean government, through MOLIT, continues to monitor the airline’s restructuring, ensuring a smooth transition for passengers, employees, and stakeholders.

With a modernized fleet, a fresh identity, and a larger global presence, Korean Air is poised to lead South Korea’s aviation industry into the future while maintaining its legacy as a world-class airline.