Korean Air and Delta team up
for Santa Monica beach cleanup

(Seoul, April 28, 2025) - For the second year in a row, Korean Air and Delta Air Lines teamed up to protect Southern California’s coastline, participating in a spirited beach cleanup competition on April 24 near the iconic Santa Monica Pier.

In collaboration with Heal the Bay, a leading California-based environmental nonprofit organization, 45 employees from both airlines formed teams of four for a “Suits on the Sand” challenge. The friendly rivalry resulted in the removal of hundreds of pounds of litter and countless cigarette butts, making a tangible impact on one of Los Angeles’ most beloved beaches.

The event is part of the Korean Air-Delta Joint Venture’s ongoing environmental and social impact initiatives. Now in its sixth year, the partnership has spearheaded efforts such as tree planting in Mongolia, a river side cleanup in Seoul, and homebuilding projects with Habitat for Humanity around the globe.

Before the cleanup began, participants learned about marine pollution and coastal preservation from a Heal the Bay educator. The knowledge-sharing session was followed by a competitive, interactive cleanup that fostered teamwork and community engagement.

“It’s amazing to see everyone coming together to make a real impact,” said K.H. Lee, General Manager and Head of Passenger Business for the Americas. “Just like we do in the skies, we're stronger when we work together. Today’s effort is a small way to show our appreciation for the Los Angeles and beachside communities, especially after the devastation of recent wildfires. We stand with our friends and neighbors who’ve been affected.”

“Korean Air and Delta Air Lines are working together to make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve,” said Rob LeBel, Managing Director, International & Specialty Sales of Delta Air Lines. “Through our joint cleanup efforts at Santa Monica Bay, we’re proud to give back to a city that’s been critically important to the joint venture’s global network."