I flew SEA–ICN in Alaska Airlines economy and expected a worse experience based on prior trip reports, but it turned out to be generally satisfactory.
The onboard food was surprisingly good and in some cases better than what I have had on JAL and Cathay flights out of SFO. My wife selected the standard and Asian meal options, while I ordered a vegetarian special meal after calling in, which the customer service representative helped arrange without issue. Meal highlights included items such as bulgogi beef, shiitake mushroom rice, and tofu fried rice, which were mostly flavorful, although one vegetable noodle dish was dry and bland. Overall catering including snacks, salads, desserts, and the mid-flight cookie service was quite good.
Seat comfort was also acceptable, especially on a newer aircraft with extra legroom, which went against expectations I had read online. The cabin crew were friendly and attentive, and the cabin was quiet. However, there was no WiFi, wooden cutlery was uncomfortable, entertainment was decent but not outstanding, and the cabin temperature became warmer toward the end of the flight.
The main issue was boarding at Seattle, which was disorganized with unclear instructions and poor enforcement of boarding groups. Lounge food at SEA was also underwhelming compared to other airports.
Overall, the economy experience felt comparable to other major Asian carriers, although I plan to make a direct comparison with an upcoming Korean Air business class flight.
5