So You Wanna Seoul Your Way to Chicago (or Vice Versa): Buckle Up, Buttercup, It's a Long One!
Let's face it, Chicago deep dish is amazing, but sometimes you gotta get your kimchi fix. Or maybe you're a die-hard K-Pop fan with a burning desire to attend a live concert (and possibly trip over fellow fans in the mosh pit, but hey, that's part of the experience, right?). Whatever your reason for wanting to jet across the Pacific, you've probably got one burning question: How long is that dang flight?
Well, my friend, buckle up for a bumpy (but hopefully informative) ride through the wonderful world of Chicago-to-Seoul air travel times.
The Non-Stop Speed Demons: Seoul Searching in Under 16 Hours
There's a reason they call these flights "non-stop" folks, because that's exactly what they are: a straight shot from Windy City blues to K-drama views. If you can snag a seat on one of these bad boys, you'll be kicking back and watching in-flight movies for around 14 to 15 hours. But hey, think of all the snacks you can consume! Just try not to get on the wrong side of the flight attendant by asking for seconds on the complimentary bibimbap.
Pro tip: Download a bunch of shows and movies beforehand, because unless you're the in-flight entertainment system's biggest fan, you might just start seeing airplanes in your sleep.
The One-Stop Shop: Taking a Break from the Skies (and Maybe Grabbing Duty-Free)
Maybe cramming yourself into an airplane seat for 15 hours doesn't exactly tickle your fancy. No worries, because the one-stop option is here for you! These flights add a little pitstop somewhere along the way, usually another major airport in Asia or North America. This might bump your travel time up to around 18-25 hours, but hey, at least you get to stretch your legs and maybe snag a bargain at duty-free (because who doesn't love souvenirs that scream "I spent way too much money at the airport?").
Word to the wise: Be sure to check your layover times carefully. A short layover might sound good at first, but trust me, sprinting through an airport with a carry-on the size of a small child is not an Olympic sport you want to participate in.
The Multi-Stop Marathon: For the Truly Adventurous (or Maybe Lost)
There's a reason they call these flights marathons, folks. We're talking multiple stops, layovers that could rival a weekend getaway, and enough airplane meals to make you question your sanity. While you might save some cash with this option, expect your travel time to balloon to anywhere between 25 and...well, let's just say a very long time.
Look on the bright side: You'll basically be getting a mini world tour on your way to Korea! Just be sure to pack enough snacks (and maybe a good book...or three) to keep yourself from going stir crazy.
Remember: No matter which flight option you choose, there's one thing for sure: you're in for a long haul. So pack your patience, your sense of humor, and maybe some comfy compression socks (because let's be honest, airplane leg syndrome is a real thing). Happy travels!
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
