Staying Connected in South Korea: A Guide to SIM cards, E-SIM cards, and WiFi Eggs for Foreigners
- Irina Radu
- May 6
- 4 min read
Basic knowledge about the Korean SIM cards – how to start:
When travelers arrive in Korea, they need a different SIM from their usual one. There are several types of SIMs for foreigners. One can get a Korean SIM or an E-SIM.
One fact that first-time travelers need to learn is that Korean SIM cards for tourists and Korean E-SIMs are slightly different. The Korean SIM is usually physical, while the Korean E-SIMs are digital.
The usual recommendation from people who have traveled in South Korea more often is that SIMs should be bought beforehand.
But, travelers can also get them from selling points located in the main Korean airports like: Incheon airport, Jeju airport, Daegu Airport, or Gwangju Airport.
Main companies that sell such SIM cards:
Some major providers are: SK Telecom, KT (Olleh), and LG U+ .
SK Telecom: It is a leading, long-standing provider offering standard and tourist-specific
mobile data plans.
KT : They offer a wider variety of SIM plans (mostly unlimited data with free
incoming calls) despite less extensive coverage than SK Telecom. They also support 4G LTE and 5G speeds.
LG U+: They provide extensive coverage and a range of SIM plans. They are unique for offering data
in bundled hours instead of daily limits. They support 4G LTE and 5G speeds.
Ways to purchase Korean SIM cards:
First, you have to find a kiosk or store, which should be in the arrival hall. They should also be found outside the baggage claim.
The next step is choosing your plan. There are a few things you have to take into consideration when you decide on your plan: the traveling period and the amount of data needed.
Then, you have to show your passport to the employee so that you will be able to buy your SIM card. This legal requirement has identification reasons.
Afterwards, you can purchase your SIM card by either paying for it using Korean WON, or through a cash or debit card. The prices usually vary depending on the chosen provider. The last step is to install and activate the SIM card. Employees can help you with the process.
Another way to purchase Korean SIMs is through websites. It is more efficient this way and saves time and energy.
Korean SIMs are extremely easy to set up, and you can use your device.
One downside of online acquisition is that delivery takes a certain amount of time.
Korean SIMs usually require a compatible, unlocked phone. The system's coverage is limited to the local network provider's area. The process could be impacted by potential language barriers.
Hot facts about E-SIM cards
As stated earlier, an eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card, directly built into your device (smartphone, tablet, smartwatch). This means you can activate a mobile plan without needing a physical card.
E-sims enable you to switch between plans. Another advantage is that you can activate it before arriving in Korea. Also many devices with eSIM support also have a physical SIM slot. This allows you to keep your home country's SIM active for calls/texts while using a local Korean eSIM for data.
SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+ not only provide Korean sims but they also offer E-sims. Other trustful providers can be: Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and GigSky.
Check these services for more plans:
Korea eSIM: Unlimited Data & Voice eSIM (15~180 days) - 46.8$/30 days (more discounts for more days)
WiFi eggs or pocket WiFi:
WiFi eggs are small, battery-powered devices that create a personal WiFi hotspot. They connect to a cellular network (like 4G or 5G) and then broadcast a WiFi signal through which multiple devices (smartphones, laptops, tablets, etc.) can connect to simultaneously.
Some good companies which provide such services are: SKT, KT, LGU, Chingu Mobiles, Woori Mobile, Kimbap Mobile.
They are good for traveling since they are portable and easy to carry around.
To get your hands on such pocket WiFis, usually requires booking it online. After you rent it, you can pick up the mini router from locations like airports.
At the specific locations, you must have prepared your passport and credit card. For the security deposit, a credit card with your name must be presented. Debit card payments are not accepted. In case you lose or damage the device or accessories, you must pay for it.
Once your trip ends, you can return it at any location, no matter where it was picked up.
You can find some of the plans on the following websites:
Since technology has evolved, purchasing or renting has become more efficient. Plus, many people are more than ready to help you, so you do not need to worry.
Realli needed this information. Always helpfull. Thanks