Starlux Airlines Launches First Direct Flights to Busan, Expanding Taiwan-South Korea Connectivity

Taipei, Taiwan – Starlux Airlines announced today, February 23, 2026, the launch of direct flights between Taiwan and Busan, South Korea, commencing June 1, 2026. This includes the first direct route between Taichung International Airport and Busan’s Gimhae International Airport operated by a Taiwanese carrier. Tickets for both routes will be available for purchase starting Thursday.

Expanding Routes and Frequency

Starlux will offer daily flights between Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport and Gimhae International Airport. Flights from Taichung International Airport to Busan will operate on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings, departing at 8:10 a.m. The Taoyuan-Busan route will see departures from Taiwan on Monday and Wednesday mornings at 8:15 a.m., and on all other days of the week at 2:45 p.m., according to a tentative schedule released by the airline. Focus Taiwan and Taipei Times reported on the new routes.

Strategic Market Entry

According to Tourism Administration statistics, South Korea was the third most popular destination for Taiwanese travelers in 2025, following Japan, and China. Starlux Airlines CEO Glenn Chai stated that the launch of these routes marks a significant milestone for the airline, extending its international service and signifying its entry into the South Korean market. The Taichung-Busan route, in particular, aims to provide increased convenience for travelers in central Taiwan. The Traveler highlighted the strategic importance of this expansion.

Network Growth

These new Taiwan-South Korea routes will complement Starlux’s existing network of 37 routes to 31 cities across North America and Asia. The airline is also preparing for its first European service, with Prague scheduled to be added to its destinations on August 1, 2026.