To be fair, DL is still putting "Elite" on GM boarding passes. I had no issue getting into the AZ lounge at FCO as a GM even though there was nothing showing my status on my BP and I didn't have my card yet. I just had a printout of my account (and the page saying GM was ST E+, but I didn't even need that).

Glad you enjoyed the ride on the A380. I'm awaiting KE releasing its winter schedule, as I might try to re-route my LHR-ICN-SYD award ticket into LHR-CDG-ICN-SYD if KE's running the A380 on CDG-ICN on the day I need it. KE's supply of flat beds to the EU is lacking, and most of them are going to FRA right now for some inexplicable reason. (Hello, there are at least three ST hubs that might make more sense to send flat beds to before you send them to FRA, KE.)