South Korea's largest airline waives cancellation fees for all flights to Cambodia amid scam crisis

By Hoang Vu October 16, 2025 | 10:42 pm PT

A Korean Air jet. Photo courtesy of the airline

Korean Air, the largest airline in South Korea, announced on Thursday that it will waive cancellation fees for all flights departing from Korea to Cambodia until year-end amid growing safety concerns over online scams.

The decision follows a recent travel ban to some parts of Cambodia in response to a surge in crimes targeting Koreans in the country, Korea JoongAng Daily reported.

Korean Air currently operates daily direct flights between Incheon and Cambodia's Takhmao using its A330-300 aircraft, which accommodates up to 272 passengers.

The airline stated that it is conducting safety inspections, advising caution to local staff and crew members stationed in Cambodia, and maintaining emergency communication protocols.

Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs designated Bokor Mountain in Kampot Province, along with the cities of Bavet and Poipet, as travel-restricted zones starting at midnight on Thursday, Korea Times reported.

The South Korean action follows the death of a South Korean student who was lured into working in a scam center in Cambodia with the promise of hefty wage.

He allegedly died after being tortured by a criminal gang.

Between January and August this year 330 South Koreans have reportedly gone missing or been abducted after entering Cambodia, AFP reported.

The number of South Koreans visiting Cambodia in the first seven months of this year was 106,686, a 9% decline from 2024, according to the Korean Tourism Organization.