📌 A Complete Guide to Mobile Plans, Documents, Carriers, and Tips
If you’ve just landed in Korea and you’re wondering how to get a working phone, you’re not alone.
Whether you’re an international student, a digital nomad, or moving here long-term, one of the first tasks you’ll face is setting up a Korean SIM card or mobile plan. This process can feel overwhelming due to language barriers, ID checks, or payment requirements—but don’t worry.
This 2025 guide will walk you through:
- Prepaid vs. Postpaid: Which one suits you?
- Required documents
- Best SIM options for tourists & residents
- Trusted telecom providers
- Where to buy a SIM card (airports, stores, online)
- eSIM, hidden fees, and real expat tips
✅ Can Foreigners Get a Korean SIM Card?
Yes, absolutely. But the process differs depending on your visa type and length of stay.
- Tourists (≤ 90 days) → Prepaid SIM cards (no ARC needed)
- Long-term residents (with ARC) → Postpaid plans available
- eSIM options are now growing for iPhones and Samsung models.
💡 No Korean bank account? Then go with a prepaid plan.
📄 Required Documents
| Plan Type | Documents Needed |
|---|---|
| Prepaid | Passport, Visa, Temporary Korean address |
| Postpaid | Passport, ARC (Alien Registration Card), Korean bank account/card |
🔄 Prepaid vs. Postpaid: What’s Better?
| Feature | Prepaid | Postpaid |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Tourists | Long-term expats |
| ID Needed | Passport | ARC + Bank Info |
| Payment | Upfront | Monthly billing |
| Contract | None | Often 24 months |
| Price Range | ₩20,000–₩60,000 | ₩30,000–₩100,000+ |
📡 Best Mobile Carriers in Korea (2025)
- SK Telecom (SKT)
- Korea’s biggest network
- Widely available
- Some English service
- KT (Korea Telecom)
- Strong airport presence
- Great eSIM support
- Reliable for visitors
- LG U+
- Affordable student plans
- Good for data-heavy users
- Less English support
💡 Look for MVNOs like EG SIM, Chingu Mobile, or Hello Mobile. They’re cheaper and often more foreigner-friendly.
🛒 Where to Buy a SIM Card
- Airports (Incheon, Gimpo, Busan)
- KT Roaming Center, SKT Desks
- English support
- Fastest option
- In City (Seoul, Busan, Daegu)
- Carrier stores (Olleh, SKT, LG U+)
- Bring all documents
- Expect 30–60 min process
- Online (Pre-arrival)
📱 Best SIM for Your Needs
✈️ Tourists
- KT Visitor SIM: Unlimited LTE
- EG SIM: Data + Voice options
- Price: ₩30,000–₩60,000/month
🎓 Students / Expats
- LG U+ Student Plan: Discounts with ID
- KT Data On Plan: Unlimited 5G
- SKT T Plan: Family bundles
💳 Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Activation fees (₩5,000–10,000)
- SIM card fees
- Contract cancellation penalties
- Porting your number (“번호이동”)
📶 Can You Get an eSIM in Korea?
Yes! Especially for:
- iPhone 13+
- Galaxy Z series
- Compatible carriers: KT, SKT, Airalo
Great for dual-SIM users or digital nomads.
😱 Lost Your SIM or Phone?
- Visit a nearby carrier store
- Bring ID (Passport or ARC)
- Ask for SIM replacement or device lock
- For help, call Dasan 120 (multilingual)
🙋♀️ Real FAQs
Q: Can I use my phone from home?
A: Yes, if unlocked and LTE/5G compatible.
Q: Can I pay with a foreign card?
A: Yes for prepaid. No for postpaid—Korean card required.
Q: Can I keep my number when switching plans?
A: Yes. It’s called 번호 이동 (number porting).
🔚 Final Thoughts
Getting connected in Korea doesn’t have to be stressful.
Start with a prepaid SIM, then upgrade once you have your ARC and Korean bank account.
Stay connected, download Korean apps, and explore this amazing country—without worrying about your phone plan.
