World's second best airport expands staff lounges at Terminal 2

South Korea's Incheon, the world's second best airport after Changi in the 2026 Skytrax awards, has completed a major renovation of staff lounges at Terminal 2, expanding rest facilities and launching full-scale operations this month to improve working conditions for on-site employees.

A rest area at Incheon International Airport

Incheon International Airport Corporation, which runs the airport, said Thursday that it renovated and expanded three staff lounges at Terminal 2 after workforce numbers increased following recent airline relocations, Seoul Economic Daily reported.

Since Jan. 14, Asiana Airlines has moved all of its arrival and departure operations from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 at Incheon Airport, Korea Times reported.

The renovation project covers about 1,900 square meters across three facilities, including the "Hangajok Lounge" in the public area and two lounges inside the security zone.

The Hangajok Lounge was expanded to 1,534 square meters, more than double its previous size.

Based on employee feedback, the upgraded facility now includes enhanced sleeping and shower rooms, as well as new study areas, a fitness center and additional lounge space for workers before and after shifts.

The two lounges in the security zone were also upgraded with new interiors and replacement furniture to create more comfortable rest areas.

According to data from the Airports Council International, Incheon handled 73.55 million international passengers last year, making it the third busiest airport globally just after Dubai International Airport in the UAE and London Heathrow Airport in the U.K.

The airport handled 19.78 million passengers in the first quarter, up 7% year-on-year.