Vietnam Airlines Business Class Review: Ho Chi Minh-Busan B787-9

When planning our trip to Singapore, we opted for a Vietnam Airlines route connecting through Ho Chi Minh City, even though direct flights from Busan were available.

(Singapore Airlines was just too pricey, and while Jeju Air now offers direct routes, the value of Vietnam Airlines was hard to beat!)

On our return journey from Singapore – Ho Chi Minh and then Ho Chi Minh to Busan, we experienced the incredible comfort of Vietnam Airlines Business Class. It was a truly restful flight with delicious in-flight meals that helped us shake off all our travel fatigue. Here’s a detailed breakdown of our Ho Chi Minh – Busan flight experience.

Vietnam Airlines Business Class (B787-9) Flight Review

Ho Chi Minh City – Busan

On the final day of our trip, we boarded Vietnam Airlines Flight VN422 from Ho Chi Minh City to Busan’s Gimhae International Airport. This wasn't our first time choosing business class for the return leg – we did the same on a previous trip to Kuala Lumpur, and it was just as satisfying this time around.

1. The Bliss of Full-Flat Seating Above the Clouds

Our aircraft was the B787-9 Dreamliner, often called a ‘hotel in the sky.’ Its 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration meant we had our own private space, without having to worry about disturbing anyone next to us.

< Seat Adjustment >

With just the touch of a button, the full-flat seat reclines completely to a 180-degree flatbed. This was a godsend on our overnight flight back to Busan, allowing for truly restful sleep. (It makes a huge difference for getting back to normal life the next day!)

As soon as I settled in, I got ready to snooze.

< Smart Details >

Next to the seat, there was an intuitive touch panel, a remote control, and a USB charging port, perfect for keeping laptops or phones charged. But honestly, I was too busy eating and sleeping to use them – talk about a wasted opportunity! Haha.

2. A Luxurious Treat: Aspinal of London Amenity Kit

Often, business class amenity kits aren't provided on shorter flights, but Vietnam Airlines offers them on flights longer than 4 hours. (Great value, right?)

This time, we received an Aspinal of London pouch, a brand beloved by the British Royal Family. Inside, it was thoughtfully packed with lip balm, hand cream, an eye mask, and a toothbrush set – everything you need to combat dryness at cruising altitude. On a flight last summer, I didn't even bother opening the pouch because I wasn't keen on the design. But this one was sleek and stylish, so I happily took it home with me!

3. In-flight Dining Paired with 'Magnolia Wine'

They say no sightseeing is complete without good food, and the highlight of business class is definitely the in-flight meal!

The only downside? Eating a full-course meal well past midnight, especially after already filling up at the lounge. But, knowing we had to hit the ground running the next morning, we made sure to eat up!

Before takeoff, the flight attendants gave us time to choose our meals.

My husband went for the Beef Tenderloin Steak from the Western menu.

This was probably the most delicious dish!

My daughter and I chose Mandu-guk (dumpling soup) from the Korean menu.

On our summer trip, the Korean option was porridge, but this time it was Mandu-guk. The broth, however, had a distinct pho-like aroma. It made me wonder if ordering pho would have been a better choice! (Something to keep in mind when you pick your menu.)

My mother opted for the Braised Fish from the Korean menu.

And they kept bringing bread, almost unlimited! But I was so full, I had to politely decline. Haha! Vietnam Airlines is quite famous for its delicious bread, though.

The wine I paired with my meal was Collefrisio Bianco, produced by Collefrisio, a renowned winery in Italy's Abruzzo region.

Like the vibrant magnolia blossom on its label, this wine was fragrant and crisp, making it a perfect match for seafood.

Apparently, this wine is quite popular and well-known among Vietnam Airlines Business Class passengers.

Now that we've eaten, what's next?

Time for some deep sleep!

4. Recommended Vietnam Airlines Routes from Busan

✔️ Busan – Kuala Lumpur (1 Stop)

Starting in December 2026, Malaysia Airlines will introduce direct flights from Busan to Kuala Lumpur.

However, for a more budget-friendly option, we still recommend the connecting route via Vietnam Airlines.

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