The point is that even his father who is not familiar with Lady Gaga, another famous pop icon, is familiar with Psy and comfortable using the meme created by his song.
His father interpreted his free upgrade as "Gangnam style".
He knew the meme well enough to know that "Gangnam style" meant "living large" more or less.
For someone who usually takes a pass on all things pop culture, this was unexpected to say the least and speaks to the enormity of the influence this music video has had on all layers of society.
Gangnam is the part of Seoul known for the number of rich people who live there. It's associated with luxury. Getting to fly first class is definitely Gangnam style.
Not sure what you mean? Can you please elaborate? How is the Gangnam Style video related to your father getting to fly 1st class?