30 Korean Air Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Korean Air interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. How does this position fit into your career goals?
How to Answer
Is this particular position a good fit? Is it a step up in your career or - a stagnant move that you are just complacent with taking until something better comes along? Assure the interviewer that this position will be challenging for you, is a step up in responsibilities, and that it fits with your overall career goals.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My primary goal in my career as a flight attendant is to become a senior team member and eventually train others in the airline industry. I feel that what Korean Air offers is a strong path towards those goals and I am excited about what this position has to offer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"This position offers the next steps in my career and the growth that I am ready for. I have spent the last couple of years attending additional coursework to get me here, and I'm excited to show Korean Air what I can do!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
2. Are you planning to wait for a position that fits your criteria, or are you ready to start in an entry level role, and work your way into your desired position?
How to Answer
How you answer this question will show the interviewer what kind of team player you are. If you are highly experienced in the airline industry, you will not want to take an entry-level role, but perhaps you can show that you are willing to explore the opportunities that are currently available with Korean Air. If you are newer to your career, it's essential that you show flexibility in where you start. Many airlines give shifts and flights based on seniority and tenure, so it is expected that you are willing to work your way up and through the rankings. Express your interest in joining the company while staying open to opportunities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am willing to explore all opportunities available to me at this time. It is important to me that I join an organization that values my experience and expertise, yet I also understand that I may need to work my way up in your company as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I bring a great deal of experience in the industry and would like to be considered for any role that reflects my current knowledge level and ability."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. Are you okay with flying the same city pairs every week, or do you want to fly around the world?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know a bit more about your career goals, now, and in the longer term. If you are newer to your career, you may be put on city pairs to start and then trained for international work. It is important to express that you are willing to start wherever Korean Air will have you. This approach is the team-player attitude they will be seeking.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I love the idea of flying around the world and experiencing international destinations. With that said, city pairs also keep me close to home, allowing for a better work-life balance. I am happy to work on any flights that you would offer to me at this time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am not going to be choosy regarding the opportunities given to me. I am happy with either option and am prepared to travel internationally or remain more local. Either way, I am more interested in my goal of working for Korean Air."
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. What have you done to prepare yourself for a career in the airline industry?
How to Answer
It is crucial that you show the interviewer how engaged you are in a career in the airline industry. Perhaps you are taking some online customer service courses, reading books on a related topic, or interviewing friends and family who have worked in the industry. Give at least one example of how you are preparing yourself for a successful career with Korean Air. Show that you are proactive!
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe in being proactive, especially when it comes to my career and my future success with Korean Air. For that reason, I am currently reading through the blog on your company website. It is very informative and helped me to prepare for this interview today."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have prepared myself for a career in the airline industry by speaking extensively with my grandfather who is a recently retired pilot. He has shared with me many industry-related stories as well as tips and tricks of the trade. I look forward to learning even more through your extensive employee training and other resource provisions."
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. Which aspect of this role do you feel you need the most training?
How to Answer
Your answer to this question will tell the interviewer a lot about your skill level and where you will need the most training. Keep your answer related to one of the tasks outlined in the job posting but ensure that you do not mention one of the must-have skills. For instance, if you are interviewing for a customer service representative position, you would not want to say that you need the most training in customer service related skills. Mention a computer system that you would not have used, or perhaps another internal process specific only to Korean Air. Be sure to add that you are confident in your ability to learn this skill quickly.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am confident in my skill level when it comes to the primary responsibilities of this role. What I believe I will need the most training in are your internal computer systems. I am tech savvy and confident that I will pick up on them quickly; however, they will be new to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love to learn new things, and so I am excited for the training I will receive at Korean Air. The area where I will need the most training will be with Software ABC. This position will be my first exposure to the program. I have already watched a few online tutorials and am confident I will pick it up quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns
6. Who do you admire most in the airline industry?
How to Answer
Maybe you admire a famous engineer, the world's first female pilot, or an airline mogul who has made a name for themselves in the luxury airline industry. Whoever you find to be inspiring, keep in mind that the interviewer is looking for a heartfelt response.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The people whom I find the most interesting and inspiring in the airline industry, without a doubt, would be the Wright brothers. Inventing, building, and flying the worlds' first airplane is a remarkable accomplishment that would have required a lot of smarts and bravery. May I ask who you admire most in the industry?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Amelia Earhart is my answer to this question, hands down. I love to hear stories of women succeeding in a time when our efforts were often ignored or pushed to the side. The fact that she was a pilot and an author is remarkable but also that she was the first female to fly alone across the Atlantic Ocean."
Written by Rachelle Enns
7. How will you earn the trust of your coworkers?
How to Answer
Workplace relationships are essential to nurture. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your new co-workers, should you be offered the position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel that the best way to earn the trust of my co-workers is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Here are some ways that you can build trust with your coworkers:
- Show common courtesy. Say hello, hold the elevator door, bring coffees now and then
- Be respectful in your communication, avoid over cc'ing unnecessarily in emails
- Avoid being a distraction, and respect the use of their time
- Respect their personal space and the line between work life and personal life
- Always ask if they have time before diving into a conversation
- Try to find the answer to your questions before running to ask a manager or co-worker
- Connect with them on LinkedIn but avoid more personal social media platforms
- Treat everyone the same, regardless of their job title
- Do not complain about your job to your coworkers
- Reach out to new employees and make them feel comfortable
- Own up to your mistakes and fix them
- Be timely with your followups and meet your deadlines"
Written by Rachelle Enns
8. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple tasks at hand?
How to Answer
When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If, for example, I have more than one customer who needs me, I will page for assistance so that nobody is left waiting. It's essential to have team members that you can rely on to step in when you become too busy."
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. What experience do you have using team-based messaging applications?
How to Answer
There are many options for communication software and messaging applications. Give the interviewer a brief overview of the apps you are experienced in and assure them that you can learn their internal system, should it be new to you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have used a variety of team-based messaging applications. I am best versed in Brosix, AOL Instant Messenger, and Freedcamp. No matter which system you use I am sure that I can pick it up very quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Our current company uses Slack for most projects. Slack stands for 'Searchable Log of All Conversation and Knowledge,' which helps describe why it's so useful for a sales team. All knowledge of clients, products, and projects are at our fingertips. Which team-based applications do you use here?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
10. Think about a difficult boss, professor or coworker. What made him or her difficult? How did you successfully interact with this person?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you work well with most personalities even though you recognize there are some folks out there who are quite difficult to please.
Think about that one person at work who is seen as hard to please. Perhaps there is someone at work who tries to intimidate others. Talk to the interviewer about what made this person challenging and what their relationship was to you. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone and be sure to end your response on a positive note.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I once worked at a locally owned shop where the owner was very demanding. When the owner would walk into the store, employees would announce over their headset system that the owner was in the building, so that everyone felt prepared for his entrance into their department. The owner had great intentions; however, his people skills were a little rough. I could see that he meant well, and I recognized that he wanted to do a lot of good things. When we interacted, I always took his feedback with the understanding that he didn't mean things as harshly as they came out."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I once worked for an executive who was very difficult in meetings and with interacting with groups of others. I took it upon myself to help this person interact better with others. When she would bark orders, I would reiterate what she was trying to say to the group more professionally. It took some time, but she learned to behave in a way that made people want to work with her."
Written by Rachelle Enns
11. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Although my current salary is $45K/year, I am seeking $52K in my next position. Because I work for a very small organization, they are not able to offer me a competitive compensation compared to the industry marketplace."
Written by Rachelle Enns
12. Personality fit is important to us at Korean Air. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
Personality and character are two very different things. The interviewer is looking for more information on your traits vs. your integrity. This example could include buzzwords such as extroverted, energetic, and confident.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am confident, friendly, and a go-getter. Are these personality traits that you are looking for in your next hire?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
13. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Communication is critical in the airline industry. I would rate my communication skills as a 7 out of 10 because there is always room for improvement. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything. Communication needs to run smoothly, both ways."
Written by Rachelle Enns
14. How do you get along with others at work?
How to Answer
Think about your relationships with coworkers, past and present. Which ones were healthy? What were the dynamics of those working relationships? Think about what you enjoyed about some of your relationships with past coworkers. Excellent communication, sense of humor and support are all great qualities that make co-working relationships fun.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I get along great with my coworkers. I try to maintain a positive attitude and be supportive, whether I am offering to assist someone who is overwhelmed, or if I am taking time to listen to someone who is having a bad day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I put a lot of effort into my relationships with my coworkers. I believe that harmonious relationships in the workplace are important for the happiness of everyone as well as for productivity levels."
Written by Rachelle Enns
15. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?
How to Answer
A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. If you could do anything over, what would you do, and why?
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career; however, if I had to start over in a new direction completely I would likely pursue my Degree in Education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers, and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. I enjoy coaching and leading others so, any tasks in my current career that related to these skills, are very welcome."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would take the same direction! I love what I do, and wouldn't change a thing. This industry brings a lot of excitement and fulfillment to my life."
Written by Rachelle Enns
16. At Korean Air, exceptional customer service is our priority. How will you ensure that our service standards are continually met?
How to Answer
If you are familiar with Korean Air before your interview, you will likely know a little bit about their goals when it comes to customer service. Tie in your knowledge of the company with your service standard.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand through my research and exposure to your company that customers always come first. I wholeheartedly agree that the customer must be taken care of, even beyond their expectations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I will ensure that your customer service standards are continually met by following your service protocols, exactly. I am always willing to lend a hand, and am a happy person, which creates a positive environment for customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns
17. When have you had to shift your priorities in response to sudden changes?
How to Answer
Have you been asked to change your priorities on a dime? How do you react to this kind of shift in priorities? Assure the interviewer that you can respond professionally when it comes to sudden changes.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, our schedule is changed on a regular basis and always at short notice. I have been able to adapt very well to these frequent, sudden changes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The airline industry is full of sudden changes, most frequently, when flight times are changed. This change affects everyone's schedule when it happens. I can roll with the punches and understand that I need to respond positively and swiftly when sudden changes are made."
Written by Rachelle Enns
18. The airline industry is full of unexpected scenarios. When have you faced an unexpected difficulty?
How to Answer
Korean Air is the biggest airline in South Korea, with over 170 planes and jets. There is much opportunity for situations to go awry. How you face unexpected difficulty can say a lot about your character. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have encountered an unexpected challenge. How did you handle the situation?
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The biggest difficulty that I have faced was my unexpected lay off during the last recession. I had to adapt to a new economy and search deeply for other skills and opportunities. I was able to earn enough to avoid financial strain and am quite proud of my ability to be versatile when required."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I face unexpected difficulty frequently in my current position. The company is in financial strain, and some days we are not able to deliver the customer experience that we should. I overcome this by giving everything I have when it comes to service. I strive to leave a good impression."
Written by Rachelle Enns
19. What do you hope to gain most from your time with Korean Air?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are wholeheartedly interested in working for Korean Air. What are your hopes and expectations from your time with Korean Air? Talk to the interviewer about the ways you feel you would benefit from this position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"After reviewing the culture and mission of Korean Air, I feel that I would be able to find a long-term fit here and that is most important to me. Your training programs are industry renowned and well respected which is also interesting to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"What I hope to gain most by working with Korean Air is an unmatched level of training and expertise in the airline industry. Your company is well known for its second-to-none training."
Written by Rachelle Enns
20. List the top 3 skills that will make you an ideal team member at Korean Air.
How to Answer
When you are asked to list your top skills, it's best to tie in your rock-star skills with the requests contained in the company's job description. Which skills do you possess that are the most helpful for this role with Korean Air?
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I see that your job description requests candidate who is organized, honest, and driven by customer satisfaction. These skills are at the top of my list, but in addition to these, I am a proven leader and can work well under pressure."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Try to include a variety of words that the interviewer does not hear all the time. Be unique! Here are some ideas:
- Adaptable
- Considerate
- Diligent
- Intuitive
- Persistent
- Resourceful
- Sincere
- Witty"
Written by Rachelle Enns
21. As a Flight Attendant, you are responsible for ensuring that the safety of all passengers is a priority. What would you do if you felt there was a safety threat?
How to Answer
Airlines will always have strict safety protocols. Talk to the interviewer about how you would react in a situation where you felt safety was at risk.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My reaction to a safety threat would rely on my on-the-job training. I would want to make sure that I follow company protocol and safety regulations. I believe that if faced with a safety threat, I would do everything to ensure passengers remained calm."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am well trained on how to react in urgent, distressed, and mayday situations. In an emergency, my first course of action is to ensure the passengers are prepared."
Written by Rachelle Enns
22. All employees of Korean Air are expected to wear a uniform to work. Are you comfortable with this policy?
How to Answer
Uniforms can be a controversial discussion in many organizations; however, in the airline industry uniform use is more common than not. Discuss with the interviewer your experience working in uniform and your willingness to abide by the dress code within Korean Air.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am accustomed to wearing a uniform at work and am happy to abide by any dress code requirements to work with Korean Air."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Uniforms are very important in this industry so, yes, I am comfortable with this policy. I would love to see the uniforms before I fully commit, of course."
Written by Rachelle Enns
23. Why are you the best choice for Korean Air?
How to Answer
What makes you the best candidate for Korean Air? Talk to the interviewer about what makes you a stand out candidate for this role. Be sure to discuss unique skills and characteristics that will make you a memorable candidate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I am the top candidate for Korean Air because I already bring five years of industry experience. My customer service skills are unmatched, and I am fluent in 3 languages which allow me to communicate smoothly with a large range of customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see, I am invested in this interview process with Korean Air and will bring this same level of dedication to you if hired. You won't be disappointed."
Written by Rachelle Enns
24. Employees of Korean Air are expected to be reliable, on time, and accessible when on shift. Do you consider yourself to be a dedicated employee?
How to Answer
Korean Airlines flies millions of passengers to over 120 destinations. To keep this volume moving smoothly, the employees of Korean Air must be very reliable. Provide examples to the interviewer on times when you have shown dedication on the job. Assure the hiring manager that you possess the qualities and characteristics for which they are seeking.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position I was often recognized for being flexible with my availability. I believe in being 10 minutes early for work. I come with solid references who will be happy to speak to you about my reliability and dedication on the job."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am very dedicated, and would show my appreciation for the role by being a reliable team member of Korean Air."
Written by Rachelle Enns
25. Aside from your experience working in the airline industry, do you have experience in other customer service based roles?
How to Answer
Discus with the interviewer your experience working in customer service based roles. Take them through your resume and highlight your customer service skills.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I started working at a young age in a restaurant as a server. From there, I moved into a restaurant management role and also attended post-secondary education with a focus on Restaurant and Hotel management. Most of what I've done has been customer service focused."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to my career, so this will be my first customer service based role. I do have volunteer experience with the local Food Bank which gave me valuable exposure to working with the public, and collaborating with a team."
Written by Rachelle Enns
26. In order to work for Korean Air you are required to pass a criminal record check. Are you comfortable accommodating this?
How to Answer
Korean Air is the largest airline of South Korea based on fleet size, international destinations, and international flights. A clean criminal record is a must to work for their esteemed organization. You must be able to pass the criminal background check and may even be asked to present one in your interview. Your answer can be short and to the point.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"You will find that I have a clean criminal background. I'm willing to participate in any background check that you require."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I can complete a full criminal background check as well as any drug testing, or other background checks that you require."
Written by Rachelle Enns
27. As a Flight Attendant, you will be asked to work a wide range of hours and a lot of overtime. Are you able to accommodate the unpredictable schedule associated with being a Flight Attendant?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are aware of the inconsistent schedule associated with being a Flight Attendant. Use examples if you have some experiences to draw on.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position with Airline XYZ, I had an inconsistent schedule that required me to often be on call. I worked many weekends and holidays. This schedule is part of the lifestyle of a Flight Attendant, I completely understand. I'm happy to work any hours that are offered to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am available for a wide range of hours and overtime. I prefer to be made aware of my schedule ahead of time so that I can make appropriate childcare arrangements."
Written by Rachelle Enns
28. Have you received training on how to handle an in-flight emergency?
How to Answer
If an in-flight emergency occurred, would you know what to do? Assure the interviewer that you are confident in your ability to handle an emergency situation in a professional manner. If you are new to the industry and do not have the related training, be honest about that and comment on any other training you've completed, that may be relevant or helpful.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my role with Company ABC, I received over 100 hours of in-flight situational training. I am confident in my ability to react professionally and appropriately in an emergency situation."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"As I am new to a career in the airline industry, I have not received in-flight emergency training; however, I have taken emergency response training in my current position at the hospital. I am confident in my ability to react professionally and appropriately in an emergency situation, and I look forward to taking the in-flight training with Korean Air."
Written by Rachelle Enns
29. Do you have any formal training in First Aid or CPR?
How to Answer
First Aid and CPR training is a requirement for many roles in the airline industry. Assure the interviewer that you have current and valid certification in CPR and First Aid. If you do not, be sure to express your willingness to do so.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I do not currently hold a valid CPR and First Aid certification; however, I am happy to complete this requirement right away."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I have formal training in First Aid and CPR. I have brought my certifications here for you to see."
Written by Rachelle Enns
30. Tell me about any airline related training that you have been through.
How to Answer
Regardless of any industry related training that you have been through, you will need to complete training specific to Korean Air.
If you do not have any industry-specific training, perhaps you have training that would be transferable to this role (IE: Sales, Safety, Customer Service, Technical, etc.). Walk the interviewer through any on-the-job training you feel would be helpful.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have taken industry-related safety and customer service training with company ABC. In addition to this training, I have four years of industry experience."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not taken specific airline related training, I do have some current certifications that I believe will be helpful. These include CPR, First Aid, and WHMIS training."
Written by Rachelle Enns