Key facts
- Asiana Airlines shareholders voted in favor of merging with Korean Air.
- The merger process has been ongoing for nearly six years.
Asiana Airlines shareholders have overwhelmingly approved the merger with rival Korean Air, concluding a nearly six-year acquisition process. The combined entity, to be named Korean Air, is scheduled to launch on December 17.

The approval of the merger between Asiana Airlines and Korean Air will create a dominant national carrier, significantly reshaping South Korea's aviation landscape and potentially impacting competition and service offerings.
Asiana Airlines shareholders have overwhelmingly approved the merger with its larger rival, Korean Air, marking the culmination of a nearly six-year acquisition process. The decision was made at an extraordinary shareholders' meeting held on Wednesday.
Korean Air announced its intention to acquire Asiana in November 2020, with the deal valued at 1.8 trillion won (US$1.6 billion). This merger is expected to create the world's 10th-largest airline based on fleet size.
Asiana CEO Song Bo-young stated that the creation of this mega-carrier represents a significant step for South Korea's aviation industry. He also mentioned that preparations are underway for the integration of the two airlines' mileage programs, pending a decision from the Fair Trade Commission.
Later on Wednesday, Korean Air's board of directors also gave its approval for the merger. The two airlines had previously signed a merger agreement in May. The combined entity will operate under the Korean Air name and is slated to officially launch on December 17. The Ministry of Transport had previously approved the merger under the condition that Korean Air maintains aviation safety and passenger convenience. Consequently, the Asiana Airlines brand will be discontinued.