I don't think it's coincidental that Korean is rarely the cheapest ticket. And they have the worst frequent flyer rewards program.[1] They were one of the latest to have a co-branded credit card, I think. In other words, they focus on a consistent, quality product, without trying to hide the ball.

I think they've begun adding more frequent-flyer frills, which I expect to be detrimental to overall quality. I don't doubt it'll boost revenue. They have a long way to fall and hopefully they'll stop short of mimicking the typical industry model.

[1] They're part of SkyMiles but given their point valuations I never found it worthwhile to upgrade. It's been a few years since I cared to check, though.

korean is also the only airline i've ever flown where i thought the food was good (not just "good for airline food", which a handful of other airlines do manage, but good as in i'd have been happy to eat it at any time)

From my experience, Dubai Air has the best food I've ever had on an airplane, bar none. Korean Air and Asiana also have good food, as long as you choose the Korean meal. Their western meals are sometimes hit-or-miss.

Turkish also has good food.

i'd add Swiss Airlines to that list too! sadly you don't really have much choice of destination if you're flying Swiss

I thought Malaysia Airlines had pretty good food.

Singapore Air has quality meals IMHO.