LONDON– Richard Branson-founded Virgin Atlantic (VS) is set to introduce a new daily service between London Heathrow (LHR) and Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) beginning 29 March 2026. The route, operated by the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, marks the airline’s continued expansion into Asia.

The new link strengthens Virgin Atlantic’s (VS) eastern network, connecting travellers to South Korea through a strategic partnership with Korean Air (KE) and other SkyTeam members. The launch aligns with the UK’s competition agreement following the Korean Air–Asiana merger, ensuring continued market competition between the UK and South Korea.

Virgin Atlantic London to Seoul Flight

Virgin Atlantic’s addition of Seoul to its route map underscores its renewed focus on Asia. The daily LHR–ICN service (VS208/VS209) complements existing routes to Riyadh, Dubai, the Maldives, and India.

The Boeing 787-9 features 31 Upper Class, 35 Premium, and 192 Economy seats, with fares starting at £799 in Economy.

• VS208: London Heathrow – Seoul Incheon | Departs 09:45 – Arrives 06:05 (+1)
• VS209: Seoul Incheon – London Heathrow | Departs 08:35 – Arrives 15:05

This launch also grants Virgin Atlantic access to seven valuable weekly Heathrow slot pairs previously held by Korean Air.

The agreement between the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and Korean Air ensures competition after the Asiana merger, effectively positioning Virgin Atlantic as the new UK–Korea link.

Why the Seoul Route Matters?

For travellers, this route opens direct access to Seoul’s diverse cultural landscape. The inaugural flight coincides with South Korea’s spring season—ideal timing for those seeking to explore Seoul’s cherry blossoms, royal palaces, and traditional festivals, OMAAT flagged.

Key highlights include:

• Cherry Blossom Season (April): Parks and palaces across Seoul come alive with pink and white blooms.
• K-Royal Culture Festival (April–May): Offers insights into Korea’s royal heritage through performances and exhibitions.
• Lotus Lantern Festival (May): Celebrates Buddha’s birthday with lantern parades and music.

Beyond the capital, the route also enables travellers to experience nationwide attractions such as Busan’s Haeundae Sand Festival, the Waterbomb Festival, and the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF).

Strengthening the SkyTeam Network

Through its SkyTeam partnership, Virgin Atlantic customers gain access to extensive onward connections across Northeast Asia, Australia, and Southeast Asia. This includes destinations such as Tokyo (HND/NRT), Osaka (KIX), Sydney (SYD), Brisbane (BNE), Hanoi (HAN), and Hong Kong (HKG) via Korean Air and other partners, including Vietnam Airlines (VN) and China Eastern (MU).

Virgin Atlantic’s Chief Commercial Officer, Juha Jaervinen, highlighted that Seoul’s addition reflects the airline’s aim to give travellers “more access to culturally rich destinations, with the premium service Virgin Atlantic is known for.”

Strategy Behind the Launch

This route is not just a network expansion—it’s also a regulatory solution. The UK’s CMA required Korean Air to open slots at Heathrow as a condition for approving its merger with Asiana Airlines. By awarding these slots to Virgin Atlantic, both the UK and South Korea maintain a competitive air corridor.

Industry observers note that the decision benefits all parties involved:

• Virgin Atlantic gains valuable Heathrow slots and expanded reach in Asia.
• Korean Air satisfies regulatory conditions for its merger approval.
• UK consumers retain a competitive choice for travel between London and Seoul.

Can the Route Sustain Beyond Three Years?

While the service is confirmed for at least three years, questions remain about long-term viability.

Virgin Atlantic’s eastbound network has seen several cancellations in the past, including Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Tel Aviv. Fleet capacity is also limited, and the airline’s Boeing 787s are due for cabin upgrades only by 2028.

However, as part of Delta Air Lines’ (DL) broader partnership with Korean Air and Virgin Atlantic, the Seoul route may serve as a strategic foothold in Northeast Asia. The slots can be retained and reassigned later, provided the service operates for the initial three-year term.

Seoul Travel Guide

Seoul is a city that never slows down. From palaces and markets to coffee shops tucked in alleys, the South Korean capital has a way of blending centuries-old tradition with trendsetting modern life.

After a week exploring Seoul’s neighborhoods, I pulled together this guide to help first-time visitors make the most of their trip — from where to stay and what to eat, to the experiences that define the city.

Exploring Seoul’s Highlights

Seoul’s size can feel overwhelming at first. The city spans more than 230 square miles, with districts like Myeongdong, Bukchon, Gangnam, and Hongdae each offering something distinct.

To get around easily, download Naver Map (for walking and driving) and Kakao Talk (used for reservations and local communication). For connectivity, an unlimited eSIM plan from Holafly keeps things simple and fast.

If you’re arriving at Incheon International Airport (ICN), the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) is the quickest way into the city. The express train reaches Seoul Station (IATA: SEO) in about 45 minutes, while airport limousine buses are a comfortable option if you’re headed directly to areas like Myeongdong or Gangnam.

Where to Stay in Seoul

For first-timers, Myeongdong is the most convenient base. You’ll have shopping streets, markets, and subway access right at your doorstep. L’Escape Hotel and LOTTE Hotel Seoul both offer central, comfortable stays.

If you’d rather experience local charm, Bukchon Hanok Village is a quiet, traditional neighborhood lined with centuries-old hanoks. Rakkojae Hanok Hotel and Stay Onyou make for excellent cultural stays with easy access to nearby attractions.

Must-Do Experiences in Seoul

Join a Night Market Food Tour

The best way to start a trip in Seoul is through its food. Book a guided food tour at Gwangjang Market, the city’s oldest traditional market. Sampling dishes like tteokbokki, bindaetteok, and gimbap alongside locals gives an authentic glimpse into daily life.

Walk Through Bukchon Hanok Village

Between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, Bukchon Hanok Village feels like a step back in time. Visit between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to respect residents’ quiet hours, and stop at “Photo Spot #6” for one of the most iconic skyline views.

Visit the Royal Palaces

Five Joseon-era palaces still stand in Seoul, but Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace are the must-sees. Changdeokgung’s UNESCO-listed Secret Garden is particularly serene and worth booking a guided tour for.

Try Wearing a Hanbok

You’ll see visitors dressed in vibrant hanboks around the palaces. Renting one adds fun to your photos and gives free entry to several sites. Book in advance near Gyeongbokgung Palace for the best selection.

See the Sunset from N Seoul Tower

Ride the Namsan Cable Car an hour before sunset to reach N Seoul Tower. From the top, you’ll get a full panorama of the city — a perfect way to end a day of exploring.

Food and Coffee to Try

Seoul’s café culture and food scene are endless. Don’t miss these:

• Dotori Garden – A Studio Ghibli-inspired café near Bukchon, perfect for breakfast.
• Oncheonjip – A beautiful hanok-style restaurant in Ikseon-dong where you cook your own shabu-shabu.
• Kyochon Pilbang – A speakeasy-style spot in Itaewon serving Korean fried chicken with local beer.
• Coffee Hanyakbang – Hidden in a Myeongdong alley, this retro café roasts its own beans.
• Olive Young – The go-to chain for Korean beauty products; stock up before you leave.

Markets and Shopping

Namdaemun Market is a sensory overload of food stalls, cookware, and souvenirs. Try Hotteok Namdaemun Vegetable for crispy stuffed pancakes or Gamekol Son Wangmandu for dumplings worth the line.

For trendier finds, Seongsu — Seoul’s “Brooklyn” — is packed with local designer boutiques and minimalist stationery stores like Point of View.

More Sights Worth Visiting

• Starfield Library (COEX Mall, Gangnam) – A multi-story library that’s one of Seoul’s most photographed spots.
• Deoksugung Palace – Catch the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony at 11 AM, 2 PM, or 3:30 PM.
• Cheonggyecheon Stream – A peaceful walkway through downtown, ideal for an evening stroll.
• Euljiro Avenue – Look for The Ranch Brewing Company, a hidden craft beer bar disguised behind street art.

When to Visit and How Long to Stay

Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Seoul — cherry blossoms in April and autumn leaves in October make the city even more beautiful. A 5–6 day stay gives enough time to see major landmarks and still explore neighborhoods at an easy pace.

Bottom Line

Virgin Atlantic’s new London–Seoul route, launching 29 March 2026, represents both a strategic opportunity and regulatory compliance. It enhances SkyTeam connectivity, opens doors to South Korea’s vibrant capital, and maintains healthy competition on a key transcontinental link.

Whether the service continues beyond its mandatory three-year term will depend on demand, fleet capacity, and long-term profitability.

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