Ways to travel to South Korea using points and miles

American Airlines services flights from Dallas Fort Worth to ICN. Economy seats are available at 35,000 AAdvantage miles. Business class seats start at 81,000 miles. Booking these flights through Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan or Qantas Frequent Flyer program might offer alternatives.

Asiana Airlines services several U.S. airports, including Los Angeles and New York, to ICN. Economy tickets from New York run at 55,000 points through Air Canada Aeroplan. Booking through United MileagePlus could cost 60,500 miles. Delta Air Lines' dynamic pricing can make economy flights a viable option, though business class is expensive. Mileage requirements vary by route, with economy seats starting at 68,000 miles.

Korean Air operates an extensive network, linking ICN with multiple major U.S. airports. Economy flights on the East Coast begin at 37,000 points using Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.

United Airlines also has flights from San Francisco to ICN, with business class starting at 100,000 miles, plus minimal taxes and fees. ANA Mileage Club offers round-trip bookings on Asiana or other Star Alliance members, with business class set at 130,000 miles.

Apart from flights, South Korea offers points hotel options in Seoul from major hotel chains. Examples include the Andaz Seoul Gangnam and Conrad Seoul, with varying point requirements. Travelers are also advised to carry credit cards without foreign transaction fees to save on expenses and to earn more rewards.

It's important to plan early when seeking award seats, as these are quickly booked, especially for business class.