How Much Does a Pilot License Cost in South Korea?
MOLIT / KOCA · KRW · 24-30 months average training duration
Complete Cost Breakdown
| Training Phase | Min (KRW) | Max (KRW) | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Pilot License (PPL) | 15,000,000 | 25,000,000 | 50h |
| Commercial Pilot License (CPL) | 40,000,000 | 60,000,000 | 200h |
| Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) | 60,000,000 | 100,000,000 | 1500h |
| Type Rating (Boeing/Airbus) | 20,000,000 | 40,000,000 | - |
| Medical Certificate | 100,000 | 300,000 | - |
| Exam & Test Fees | 200,000 | 500,000 | - |
Total Estimated Investment
Training Timeline
PPL
3-6 months
CPL + IR
6-12 months
ATPL Theory
6-12 months
Type Rating
1-3 months
Total average duration in South Korea: 24-30 months
Top Flight Schools in South Korea
Cost-Saving Tips for South Korea
Many Korean students train in the USA or Australia for lower costs
Korean Air and Jin Air offer airline-funded cadet programs
KOCA license conversion from FAA is common
Military service completion required for male citizens
LCC growth (T'way, Jin Air) creating more positions
Expected Salary & Return on Investment
First Officer Salary
₩60,000,000 - ₩100,000,000
per year
Captain Salary
₩120,000,000 - ₩250,000,000+
per year
Estimated ROI Period
~1 years
Based on maximum training cost vs. first officer starting salary
Requirements in South Korea
Be at least 17 for PPL, 18 for CPL
KOCA Class 1 medical certificate
University degree preferred
Korean language proficiency for domestic exams
Military service completed (males)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a pilot license cost in South Korea?
The total cost of becoming a fully licensed airline pilot in South Korea ranges from KRW 90,300,000 to KRW 300,800,000. This includes PPL, CPL, ATPL training, type rating, medical certificates, and exam fees.
How long does it take to become a pilot in South Korea?
On average, it takes 24-30 months to complete pilot training in South Korea through the MOLIT / KOCA pathway, from zero experience to airline-ready.
What is the salary of a pilot in South Korea?
First officers in South Korea typically earn ₩60,000,000 - ₩100,000,000 per year, while captains earn ₩120,000,000 - ₩250,000,000+ per year.
What are the requirements to become a pilot in South Korea?
Requirements include: Be at least 17 for PPL, 18 for CPL, KOCA Class 1 medical certificate, University degree preferred, Korean language proficiency for domestic exams, Military service completed (males).
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