I was just at ICN 12/19. Flew to Atlanta with 9:35a departure. It was worse than that picture. Every checkpoint, out of every side had at least 100 people sticking out.

I took the 6009 from my house at 6:50 (had to wait 10 mins or so at Nonhyeon) and was at ICN by 7:45. I go to America once a year in the (Saturday) morning time and also throughout Asia for evening flights. The Korean Air check in lines snaked out into the areas in front of the different rows. I've never seen anything like it the past four years.

I tried online check in, but couldn't. I bought my ticket on the website in Korea, so I had to show my credit card at the counter. I tried the kiosk when I arrived first.No luck.

As check in closed at 8:35, I just hopped in web check in line. It took 45 minutes of waiting and Sky Priority Line next to me was just as full.

I made it to the counter at 8:30. I was visibly relieved and even joked I was worried, but the agent seemed so calm haha. She asked if I did web check in, but I told her about the message. She didn't seem phased and I know was just checking anyone in haha.

Even if I didn't try online, I would've just gotten in this line anyway There was no other way I'd make the regular line, even if I was an hour earlier. Also, had it come any closer, I would've hopped out and found someone. KE is good about that stuff. They'll actively help you.

As for security, I knew I would never make it through on time, so I found a helper in a bright blue info jacket organizing the lines. He told myself and many others to come back at our boarding time. I went back at 9, 5 minutes early and he helped me. I made it through security and immigration in 5 minutes.

As I had walked way down to the Asiana side of security looking for a line, that meant I had to walk back across the airport airside. I had enough time to buy cigarettes, pee, smoke and drink some water. Made it to Gate 17, (down the lonnnnggg hall) with barely 5 minutes before gate closed at 9:25. Luckily, the check in process was delayed so there was still a line.

Overall,I was worried, but I ultimately knew KE and ICN staff would help. Don't be afraid to ask if you're cutting it close.