Air France-KLM sees Korea as key Asian market for young, trendy travelers

Air France-KLM Group identifies Korea as its next major revenue area in Asia, driven by a significant increase in demand from young independent travelers seeking European routes following the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a senior executive at the European airline. Boris Darceaux, general manager for the airline’s Korea, Japan and New Caledonia business, described the Korean market as “more than promising” due to the trendy nature of local customers. “One of the remarkable difference and characteristics of the Korean market is that it shows a significantly high proportion of young free independent travelers, compared to other Asian markets such as Japan,” he told The Korea Times. He picked the remarkable purchasing power of Generation MZ — which encompasses Millennials and Generation Z — as a key driver for growth in the Korean market. “Generation MZ is becoming the primary consumer group in Korea,” he said. “That’s why Korean travelers are very trendy, creating and leading the global travel trend. Starting from last year, a trend has emerged among Korean travelers where they are willing to spend more on leisure activities, leading to an increase in customers seeking premium services.” Reflecting on the demand, the airline introduced its new business class seats for Korean travelers last year. They are designed with features including full flat, full access and full privacy, according to the executive. KLM also introduced its new “world business class” seats this year for travelers on a route between Incheon and Amsterdam, giving more options for consumers seeking more premium in-flight services. Air France-KLM also left open the possibility of expanding its routes from Incheon to other major European cities.<br/>