Alphabiz - Low-Cost Carriers Face Backlash Over Airport Check-in Fees for Domestic Passengers

Photo courtesy of Yonhap News

[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] Seoul, October 13 — Some low-cost carriers (LCCs) in South Korea are drawing criticism after introducing ₩3,000 check-in fees for passengers who obtain boarding passes at airport counters, sparking debate over “digital accessibility discrimination.”


Starting October 13, Eastar Jet began charging the fee at Gimpo, Cheongju, Jeju, and Gimhae Airports, citing the need to reduce wait times and encourage online and kiosk check-ins.


However, exceptions apply for passengers requiring special services — such as Jeju residents, welfare card holders, travelers with pets or infants, wheelchair users, or those purchasing tickets on-site.


Other airlines, including Jeju Air, Air Busan, and Air Seoul, already charge similar fees, while Asiana Airlines and Korean Air are promoting self-check-in to streamline operations.


Critics argue the move effectively penalizes older or less tech-savvy passengers, forcing them to pay more if they cannot use digital systems.

Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)