When Washington State meets Busan: A symbolic wine bridging Korea and the United States –
[September 16, 2025 – Seoul/Seattle] – Alaska Airlines marked the launch of its new Seattle–Incheon direct route on September 12 with a celebratory toast featuring GAHSS’NA Bubbly Rosé. Far beyond the opening of a new air service, the event stood as a cultural and economic milestone, strengthening ties between Korea and the United States.
Seattle–Incheon: A New Era of Connectivity
The inaugural ceremony took place at noon at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport’s N Concourse. Distinguished guests included Diana Birkett Rakow, Alaska Airlines’ Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability; Joe Sprauge, CEO of Hawaiian Airlines; Karen Gunn, Deputy Executive Director of the Port of Seattle; and U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland (D–WA, 10th District).
In her welcoming remarks, Rakow emphasized:
“This new service between Seattle and Seoul is more than the addition of a route. It is a meaningful moment when two vibrant cities across the Pacific grow closer, opening new opportunities for travelers and communities alike. For Alaska Airlines, this symbolizes our commitment to connect the Pacific Northwest with the world, and to welcome the world to Seattle.”
Rakow also highlighted Seoul’s standing as one of the top international destinations from Seattle and noted its popularity:
“Seoul has been recognized as one of the most beloved cities among Millennial and Gen Z travelers for four consecutive years. It is a place where tradition and modernity meet, set to the global soundtrack of K-pop. We are thrilled to invite more people to discover its dynamic spirit.”
Representative Strickland, who was born in Seoul, added a personal reflection:
“This route is more than connectivity. It is a love letter from Washington State and Alaska Airlines to the Korean American community and to the Republic of Korea.”
A Route Linking Nations
The Seattle–Incheon flights will be operated by Hawaiian Airlines’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Departures from Seattle are scheduled five times weekly (Wednesday–Sunday, 2:50 p.m.), while return flights from Incheon operate Monday, Thursday–Sunday (8:35 p.m.), with a flight duration of approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes.
GAHSS’NA Bubbly Rosé: The Chosen Wine for Celebration
GAHSS’NA Bubbly Rosé was not only the toast wine at the inaugural ceremony but also highlighted at the VIP Reception in Seattle on September 10 and the gala dinner in Seoul on September 15, drawing attention from U.S. guests and dignitaries alike.
The decision traces back to the WABA Festival hosted in August by the Washington Association of Business and Commerce (WABA). Alaska Airlines, the festival’s leading sponsor, encountered the story of GAHSS’NA Wine and was deeply moved by its narrative of cultural exchange.
Mike Bonnett, Senior Manager of Public Relations at Alaska Airlines, remarked:
“Few things symbolize the connection between Korea and the United States as powerfully as GAHSS’NA Wine. With Alaska Airlines rooted in Washington State, and GAHSS’NA crafted from Washington grapes while honoring Busan as its official wine, featuring it on this new route was the most natural choice.”
Bonnett’s recommendation was swiftly shared with the airline’s onboard dining team, who recognized the wine’s premium design and compelling story as a perfect fit for business-class service. Discussions are now underway for its formal introduction on board.
A Global Stage for a Korea–U.S. Bridge Wine
Born from the vineyards of Washington State and carrying the name and spirit of Busan, GAHSS’NA Wine has grown into more than a beverage—it has become a cultural symbol bridging two nations. Its selection for Alaska Airlines’ inaugural flight is further testament to its global significance.
Michael O’dlee, CEO of RM Wineries Korea, commented:
“We are deeply honored to join Alaska Airlines in celebrating this historic connection between Seattle and Seoul. GAHSS’NA will continue to stand as a distinctive brand, carrying the story of Korea and the U.S. to global stages around the world.”
Attachment: Reception Photos.
