Seoul is a magnetic blend of old and new, where ancient palaces sit steps from neon-lit skyscrapers. It’s a mesmerizing metropolis fueled by K-pop, eccentric street fashion, world-renowned K-beauty brands, and some of the world’s most cutting-edge cuisine—from sizzling market stalls and Korean barbecue joints to sleek Michelin-starred dining. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its scenic surrounding mountains, Seoul is a modern global capital that’s constantly evolving… and endlessly exciting to explore.
And, now, Americans will have an easier time than ever reaching South Korea’s capital. In September 2026, United Airlines will become the only U.S. carrier to offer non-stop daily flights from the New York area to Seoul. The first of the new nonstop flights aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner—which are already available to book—will take off on September 4, 2026.
United already offers twice-daily flights from San Francisco to Seoul, making it an airline of choice for Americans across the country traveling to Asia.
“With convenient options from both U.S. coasts to Seoul, travelers can experience thousands of cuisines at the vibrant Gwangjang Market, catch K-pop concerts and musical performances, try the most-talked about Korean beauty and wellness treatments, and so much more,” the airline’s announcement reads.
The new route is part of United’s recently announced summer 2026 schedule, which also includes four new cities: Split, Croatia; Bari, Italy; Glasgow, Scotland; and Santiago de Compostela, Spain. It also added new, daily flights from Washington-Dulles to Reykjavik, Iceland, and additional services between the New York area and Tel Aviv, Israel for a total of 18 weekly flights.
“United has an unmatched international network, and we pride ourselves on connecting our customers to unique, trendsetting destinations no other U.S. airline serves,” Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances, said in the airline’s announcement. “With the addition of these new flights and the return of all of our new routes from last year, United now flies to 46 cities across the Atlantic—more than any other airline—and is the clear flag carrier of the U.S.”
Head over to United to snag a seat on the next flight to Seoul.
This story was originally published by Parade on Dec 1, 2025, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.