Korean Air Carry-On Rules & Size Limits (2026)
Planning to fly with Korean Air (KE) and wondering what you can bring on board? This comprehensive guide covers everything about Korean Air carry-on baggage rules including exact size dimensions, weight restrictions, personal item policies, and what additional items you can bring free of charge. All information is verified against Korean Air's official policies and updated regularly.
Quick Answer
Korean Air carry-on size limit: 21 x 15 x 8 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm). Carry-on is free for all fares. Personal item: 15 x 11 x 6 inches (always free).
Size Limits at a Glance
| Bag Type | Size (inches) | Size (cm) | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carry-On Bag | 21 x 15 x 8 | 55 x 40 x 20 | Free |
| Personal Item | 15 x 11 x 6 | 40 x 30 x 15 | Free |
Weight Limit
10 kg (22 lbs) total combined weight for carry-on and personal item in Economy. 18 kg (40 lbs) for Prestige/First Class.
Carry-On Fee Details
Free
Overhead bin access: Included for all passengers.
Personal Item Rules
Size: 15 x 11 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm). Examples: Handbag, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack.
Additional Items Allowed (Free)
- Duty-free items
- Umbrella
- Overcoat or blanket
- Infant food for consumption on board
- Stroller (fully collapsible, subject to space)
How Strictly Are Rules Enforced?
Korean Air is known to be relatively strict with the 10 kg combined weight limit for Economy passengers, often weighing bags at check-in or the gate.
Expert Tips
- Ensure your carry-on and personal item combined do not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs) if flying Economy.
- If your carry-on is too heavy, you may be forced to check it at the gate.
- Prestige and First Class passengers are allowed two carry-on bags.
- Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Carry-On Packing Checklist
Before heading to the airport, ensure your carry-on meets Korean Air's requirements:
- Measure your bag: must be within 21 x 15 x 8 inches including handles and wheels
- Weigh your bag: 10 kg (22 lbs) total combined weight for carry-on and personal item in Economy. 18 kg (40 lbs) for Prestige/First Class.
- Personal item fits under the seat: 15 x 11 x 6 inches max
- Liquids in 3-1-1 compliant bag (containers 100ml or less, one quart-size clear bag)
- Electronics accessible for security screening
- No prohibited items (sharp objects, large liquids, flammable materials)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size carry-on does Korean Air allow?
- Korean Air allows a carry-on bag up to 21 x 15 x 8 inches (55 x 40 x 20 cm).
- Is carry-on free on Korean Air?
- Free
- What is Korean Air's personal item size?
- Personal item must be 15 x 11 x 6 inches. Examples: Handbag, briefcase, laptop bag, small backpack.
- Does Korean Air weigh carry-on bags?
- 10 kg (22 lbs) total combined weight for carry-on and personal item in Economy. 18 kg (40 lbs) for Prestige/First Class.