Seoul, South Korea – Jo Won-tae, chairman of Korean Air, has assured Asiana Airlines employees that the upcoming merger will not diminish the unique culture and assets of the latter company. In an internal message posted to Asiana's intranet on [date], Jo emphasized that the integration process would be a gradual one, where the two airlines would naturally blend into a single entity.

"I don't want to see Asiana Airlines' unique culture and assets disappear," Jo wrote. "The merged airline will not be one company absorbing another, but a natural process of mutual assimilation."

To alleviate concerns among Asiana employees following the recent replacement of top executives with Korean Air personnel, Jo pledged to create a harmonious work environment. "I hope that two years from now, when we become a merged airline, we will all blossom together," he said. "Let us lay the foundation for harmony by understanding and respecting each other, as well as by physically preparing to unify our organizations and systems."

As part of efforts to ease the transition, Asiana Airlines announced that it would be providing a 50% basic salary bonus to its employees as a merger incentive on [date].

In a significant move, Jo also referred to himself as the "chairman of Asiana Airlines" in his message. "Although 'chairman of Asiana Airlines' is just a title, the responsibility it carries feels heavier than anything else," he said. "I will listen to your voices throughout this journey together."

Jo further assured employees of fair opportunities and rewards based on their abilities and efforts. "I will ensure that individuals who diligently carry out their duties are not marginalized," he said. "As both chairman of Korean Air and chairman of Asiana Airlines, all employees of both companies are equally precious family to me. You are all undeniably experts in the Korean aviation industry, and I will be a solid supporter to ensure that your pride does not diminish."

The merger of Korean Air and Asiana Airlines is expected to create one of Asia's largest airlines, significantly bolstering South Korea's position in the global aviation industry.