Seoul to Long Beach (GMP–LGB) — Airlines, Schedules & Connections

South Korean passport holders enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days for tourism or business. You must obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before travel. The ESTA costs $21, is processed within 72 hours (often minutes), and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Passport must be a biometric e-passport.

At US immigration, you clear CBP (Customs and Border Protection) where an officer reviews your ESTA, asks about your trip purpose, takes fingerprints and a photo, and determines your allowed stay (up to 90 days). Have your return ticket, hotel booking, and a general idea of your itinerary ready to answer questions. The 90-day VWP stay cannot be extended, and overstaying voids your ESTA and future VWP eligibility. For stays beyond 90 days or work purposes, apply for a visa at the US Embassy in Seoul.

Direct flights from Seoul Incheon to multiple US cities run 10 to 14 hours: Los Angeles (LAX) 11 hours, San Francisco (SFO) 11 hours 30 minutes, New York JFK 14 hours, Seattle (SEA) 10 hours, Dallas (DFW) 13 hours, and Atlanta (ATL) 14 hours. Korean Air, Asiana, Delta, United, and American all operate transpacific routes. The US uses the US dollar. No mandatory vaccinations. Global Entry ($100, valid 5 years) includes ESTA and provides expedited entry through automated kiosks at major US airports, a strong investment for frequent visitors.