Batik Air will soon expand its North Asia network with a direct service between Kota Kinabalu, Sabah (BKI) and Incheon International Airport, Seoul (ICN), commencing on 12 September 2025. The new route, operating three times weekly, eliminates the need for layovers in Kuala Lumpur or other cities, offering travellers a faster, more seamless connection between East Malaysia and South Korea.
The service is expected to provide a significant boost to tourism flows in both directions. For South Korean visitors, the direct flights create a convenient gateway to Sabah’s natural wonders and cultural treasures. For East Malaysians, Seoul now becomes more accessible than ever, reflecting growing travel demand to South Korea.
Kota Kinabalu has quickly gained momentum as a preferred destination for Korean travellers. Between January and September 2024 alone, nearly 152,000 South Koreans visited Sabah, underscoring the state’s appeal with its lush rainforests, world-class dive sites, golden sunsets, and the iconic Mount Kinabalu. Combined with its cultural vibrancy and warm hospitality, Sabah is positioning itself as one of Asia’s rising tourism gems.
Batik Air Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, described the new route as part of the airline’s broader commitment to strengthen regional ties.
South Korea also remains one of the most popular destinations for Malaysians. According to the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), more than 300,000 Malaysians visited South Korea in 2024, with an increasing share from Sabah and Sarawak. This reflects the region’s growing fascination with Korean culture, cuisine, and lifestyle.
With the launch of the Kota Kinabalu–Seoul (BKI–ICN) service, Batik Air reinforces its strategic expansion into North Asia, furthering its mission to deliver seamless connectivity, fuel two-way tourism, and strengthen Kota Kinabalu’s role as an emerging international aviation hub.