Meanwhile, on KL - had free seat selection in "manage booking" until check in. Once checked in - all seats, including "standard economy" became paid - can't change my seat assignment anymore. Disappointing.

P.S. Had my first airport actual experience with SK in SkyTeam.
On the positive side - at check in they were able to check my bags through onto a separate KL reservation and even issue a single combined boarding pass for all flights - very nice. Was able to scan SK bp and walk into both AirFrance and VA Club lounges.
On the less positive side - both ST lounges here are simply bad. Poorly designed, small, crowded and nothing to eat (VA Club has the audacity to *sell* food. Why would you need a lounge for that?). Def. going to miss *A. Sad.