Ok I'm learning lots here, thanks much Truncated, for your non-truncated response!
Just so I'm clear, if you have a mixed OZ/*A itinerary you're only dinged if you take a domestic Korean flight? So lets say, SEA-ICN (OZ, no stop) then ICN-BKK (TG) you're only getting charged the *A rate which is 90k RT?
How long is a "non stopover"? On AP and international connection can be 23:59 without being called a stopover. Any chance OZ has something like that?
Thanks much for all the help and links. Seems like this is a pretty good program, good redemption rates, but with some holes. I guess all the FFP are like that, upsides and downsides, just gotta find the one that works for you. I've already bailed on AC, I've got Star Gold via SQ right now, but haven't redeemed for anything yet...now OZ is looking appealing because I've already got some flights booked for later in the year that I think will get me like 50% of the way to gold.
Looks like I'm gonna have to make myself a spreadsheet weighing it all out!