Submit feedbackPlanning a May departure from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) requires timing and flexibility. May is shoulder season for transpacific travel: demand rises for late-May holiday periods but weekdays earlier in the month often have lower fares. For direct routes, prioritize John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR); consider alternate routing via nearby cities like Boston or Philadelphia to unlock savings. Use fare alerts, set flexible date searches, and check alternate departure times (overnight red-eyes often have better availability).
New York (All Airports) (NYCA) covers John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). For international routes to Seoul in May, most direct long-haul flights depart from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), while LaGuardia (LGA) mostly handles domestic and short-haul international connections.
For May travel, book 6–10 weeks in advance to find competitive fares; mid-week searches (Tuesday–Thursday) often surface lower prices. Use fare alerts and flexible-date calendars to capture dips; last-minute sale fares can appear, but inventory is limited on popular May travel dates like Memorial Day weekend in the U.S.
Arrive at least 3 hours before international departures from New York (All Airports) (NYCA), especially during busy May travel weekends. Use online check-in and mobile boarding passes, enroll in TSA PreCheck if eligible, and review airline baggage rules ahead of time to avoid counter delays. Morning and late-evening slots can be less congested than mid-afternoon.
Yes — in May you can typically find nonstop flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Incheon International Airport (ICN) operated by carriers such as Korean Air, Asiana, Delta and select partners. Frequency can vary week-to-week, so check airline schedules and book direct flights early for the best availability.
From New York (All Airports) (NYCA) you can easily connect to nearby major cities like Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Miami via short domestic flights or ground transport. These cities often provide alternative routing and fare options if New York-origin flights are unavailable or more expensive in May.
May in New York is typically mild with occasional rain; weather-related delays are less common than winter storms but can happen. Airlines monitor conditions and rebook passengers when needed—keep contact info updated and allow extra transit time to JFK, LGA or EWR on high-traffic days or if rain and winds are forecasted.
Arriving in Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) in May is convenient thanks to reliable rail and bus links from Incheon International Airport (ICN) to downtown Seoul. Expect mild spring weather — perfect for exploring city parks and attending events. If you plan onward travel to Busan or Jeju, book domestic flights or express KTX train tickets in advance to secure preferred times. May sees elevated demand around public holidays and cultural festivals, so arranging transfers and accommodations ahead of time is recommended.
Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) includes Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). Most transpacific flights from New York arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN) in May due to its long-haul international hub status; Gimpo (GMP) handles domestic and regional connections to Busan and Jeju.
Most U.S. passport holders can enter South Korea visa-free for short tourism stays, but always verify current visa policy before travel. In May, expect standard immigration checks and the possibility of enhanced health screening if advisories exist; have your passport, return ticket, and hotel details ready to speed processing.
Travel time from Incheon International Airport (ICN) to central Seoul is typically 45–70 minutes by AREX express/train and 60–90 minutes by airport limousine bus depending on traffic. Taxis take about 60–90 minutes; allow more time during peak commute hours. The AREX express is often the fastest and most reliable option for May arrivals.
May in Seoul features notable cultural events that attract both domestic and international visitors. The Lotus Lantern Festival (often held in May) and Seoul Jazz Festival (some years in late May) are high-visibility events that increase hotel demand and local transport usage. Children’s Day (May 5) is a public holiday that can lead to crowds at family attractions. If you plan to arrive in May, check event dates early and book accommodations and airport transfers in advance.
May is one of the best months to fly from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Seoul (All Airports) (SELA): spring temperatures in Seoul are comfortable and tourist crowds are lighter than in summer. For the best fares and seat availability, target early to mid-May weekdays; avoid late-May holiday periods if you want lower prices. Booking well in advance and being flexible with departure/return dates will maximize savings.
Nonstop flights from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) save time — typically 13–15 hours — and reduce the risk of missed connections or baggage transfers. However, connecting itineraries can be 15–30% cheaper in May, especially via Asian or U.S. hubs like Tokyo (NRT/HND), Chicago (ORD), or Seattle (SEA). Choose direct for convenience and fewer disruptions; choose connecting if you prioritize savings and are comfortable with longer travel time.
Major carriers operating the New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) route in May include Korean Air and Asiana (native Korean carriers), plus U.S. carriers like Delta and United offering nonstop or codeshare options. Korean Air and Asiana often provide superior full-service amenities on transpacific flights (meals, baggage allowance, in-flight entertainment). U.S. legacy carriers may offer competitive loyalty benefits and convenient connection options within the United States. Low-cost transpacific options are rare for direct flights on this route.
Packing for May travel from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Seoul (All Airports) (SELA): bring lightweight layers, a compact rain jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking in spring weather. May temperatures in Seoul are generally mild (15–24°C / 59–75°F), but evenings can be cool. To reduce jet lag on the transpacific route, start shifting your sleep schedule a few days before departure toward Seoul time, stay hydrated on board, and try to get daylight exposure upon arrival. Check seasonal pollen forecasts if you have allergies and pack any needed medications.
Typical nonstop flights from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) take about 13–15 hours westbound (NYC to Seoul) depending on routing and winds; eastbound (Seoul to New York) averages 14–16 hours. Nonstop departures from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) often operate in overnight windows to optimize time-of-day arrivals. Connecting itineraries add 3–8+ hours depending on layover length and hub.
To find cheap flights from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) in May, start by searching with flexible dates and +/- 3 day windows. Use fare comparison tools and set alerts for both nonstop and 1-stop routings; sometimes flying out of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) or connecting via Tokyo Narita (NRT) or a U.S. hub can shave hundreds off the ticket. Consider departing mid-week and returning mid-week to capture lower demand pricing.
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From Seoul (All Airports) (SELA) you can easily reach Busan for coastal culture, Jeju Island for scenic spring hikes, and nearby cities like Daejeon or Suwon for day trips. May is ideal for visiting Jeju’s mild climate and Busan’s beaches before the summer crowds arrive.
May in Seoul features events like Children’s Day (May 5) and cultural festivals such as the Lotus Lantern Festival or Seoul Jazz Festival in many years, which can increase hotel and transfer demand. Plan ground transportation ahead of time and book airport transfers or AREX trains early around major festival dates.
Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport (ICN), follow international arrivals signage to baggage claim and customs. Declare any dutiable items; standard duty-free allowances apply. Use e-Gates if eligible for faster immigration, and collect baggage early to avoid delays since May arrivals can coincide with festival crowds.
