SIM Cards in South Korea: Complete Guide for 2025

SIM Cards in South Korea for Travelers: A Complete, In-Depth Guide

South Korea is known for its world-class technology, including a mobile network that boasts incredible speed and reliability. Whether you’re visiting the country for tourism, business, or to explore, staying connected is essential. Fortunately, South Korea provides an array of options for international visitors to obtain a SIM card, with excellent coverage and service available across the country. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about SIM cards in South Korea, including the top mobile network providers, how to choose the best plan, the best places to buy a SIM card, activation instructions, and everything else to ensure your connectivity throughout your visit.

Overview of Mobile Networks in South Korea

South Korea is home to three major mobile carriers: SK Telecom, KT (Olleh), and LG U+. These providers offer reliable coverage, high-speed internet, and various SIM card packages catering to travelers. The country is known for its top-tier 4G and 5G mobile networks, making it one of the best destinations globally for internet speed and data coverage.

Let’s look in detail at each of the major providers and their offerings for tourists.

1. SK Telecom (SKT)

SK Telecom is the largest and most popular mobile network provider in South Korea. With its extensive coverage, high-speed internet access, and strong customer service, SKT offers an excellent experience for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re in Seoul, Busan, or rural areas, SK Telecom provides reliable service.

• Largest Network Provider: Covers all major cities and rural areas.
• 5G Network: SKT provides cutting-edge 5G services in major cities such as Seoul, which ensures ultra-fast internet speeds for heavy data users.
• Tourist Packages: SK Telecom offers a variety of prepaid SIM cards, including data-only plans, combo packages, and those with talk-time included.

Popular Tourist SIM Plans:

SK Telecom offers a variety of SIM plans for tourists, ranging from short-term data-only options to more comprehensive plans with talk time included. These packages are available for purchase at the airport, convenience stores, and online.

SK Telecom Tourist SIM Plans:

• 1-Day Plan: 5,000 KRW – 1GB data, 30 minutes of talk time. Valid for 1 day.
• 5-Day Plan: 15,000 KRW – 3GB data, 100 minutes of talk time. Valid for 5 days.
• 10-Day Plan: 20,000 KRW – 5GB data, 200 minutes of talk time. Valid for 10 days.
• 30-Day Plan: 30,000 KRW – 10GB data, 300 minutes of talk time. Valid for 30 days.

2. KT (Olleh)

KT (Korea Telecom), commonly known as Olleh, is another major provider in South Korea. KT is known for providing some of the fastest data speeds in the country and excellent coverage. Its mobile services are widely used by locals and tourists alike. KT offers both prepaid and postpaid plans, but for travelers, the focus is on prepaid SIM cards with flexible data and talk time options.

• Excellent Data Speed: KT is known for offering fast 4G and 5G mobile services.
• Wide Coverage: KT has comprehensive coverage across South Korea, especially in popular tourist areas and cities.
• Affordable and Flexible Packages: KT offers affordable SIM cards with different data, talk time, and validity options, making it suitable for tourists who need flexibility.

Popular Tourist SIM Plans:

KT offers packages tailored to tourists, which can be purchased at Incheon International Airport, mobile stores, or online.

KT (Olleh) Tourist SIM Plans:

• 3-Day Package: 5,000 KRW – 1GB data, 50 minutes of talk time. Valid for 3 days.
• 5-Day Package: 10,000 KRW – 2GB data, 100 minutes of talk time. Valid for 5 days.
• 10-Day Package: 15,000 KRW – 4GB data, 150 minutes of talk time. Valid for 10 days.
• 30-Day Package: 25,000 KRW – 7GB data, 200 minutes of talk time. Valid for 30 days.

3. LG U+

LG U+ is the third major mobile network provider in South Korea. LG U+ is known for its high-quality customer service and fast 4G/5G network coverage in urban and rural areas. For international visitors, LG U+ is an excellent choice for data-heavy users, especially for those who need to use the internet extensively for navigation or business.

• Fast Internet Speeds: LG U+ offers fast mobile data speeds for browsing, streaming, and using apps.
• International Roaming Options: It’s ideal for those who wish to use their South Korean SIM card while traveling abroad.
• Great Value for Money: LG U+ offers some of the most competitive pricing for tourists.

Popular Tourist SIM Plans:

Similar to SK Telecom and KT, LG U+ provides various prepaid SIM options to meet the needs of travelers.

LG U+ Tourist SIM Plans:

• 3-Day Plan: 5,000 KRW – 1GB data, 30 minutes of talk time. Valid for 3 days.
• 5-Day Plan: 10,000 KRW – 3GB data, 100 minutes of talk time. Valid for 5 days.
• 10-Day Plan: 15,000 KRW – 5GB data, 150 minutes of talk time. Valid for 10 days.
• 30-Day Plan: 25,000 KRW – 10GB data, 300 minutes of talk time. Valid for 30 days.

Where to Buy SIM Cards in South Korea

SIM cards for tourists can be easily purchased in various places across South Korea. Some of the most convenient locations are listed below:

1. Incheon International Airport (ICN)

Incheon International Airport is South Korea’s main international gateway, and it’s where most travelers arrive. The airport is home to dedicated kiosks and counters selling SIM cards from SK Telecom, KT (Olleh), and LG U+. These counters are specifically set up for tourists, offering assistance in multiple languages and providing the best SIM packages for short-term visitors.

How to Buy:

• Visit the Tourist SIM Card counters located at the airport’s arrival halls.
• Show your passport to register for the SIM card (South Korean law requires SIM cards to be registered with a valid passport).
• Choose the appropriate SIM package based on your data and call requirements.

2. Convenience Stores

Convenience stores such as GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven are scattered across South Korea in all major cities. These stores offer prepaid SIM cards, and they are a convenient option if you want to buy a SIM card after you’ve left the airport.

How to Buy:

• Visit a convenience store and ask for a tourist SIM card.
• Present your passport for registration (all SIM cards need to be registered under your name).
• Choose your preferred plan and pay at the counter.

3. Mobile Shops

In larger shopping districts and malls, you will find mobile stores such as SK Telecom, KT Olleh, and LG U+. These stores provide more detailed assistance and allow you to pick the plan best suited to your needs. If you prefer to speak to someone in person, this is an excellent option.

4. Online Platforms

Some websites cater specifically to tourists visiting South Korea. You can buy SIM cards in advance and have them shipped to your hotel or designated address in South Korea. This option is ideal for those who want to avoid buying a SIM card upon arrival.

Activation of Your SIM Card

Once you’ve purchased your SIM card in South Korea, you’ll need to activate it. Activation is typically straightforward, but there are a few key steps to follow.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Insert the SIM Card: Place the SIM card into your unlocked phone.
2. Activation Process:
   • For most SIM cards, activation is automatic once inserted.
   • If needed, follow the instructions provided by the SIM card provider at the time of purchase. In some cases, you may be required to call a specific number or use an app.
3. Verify Your Phone Number: After activation, make sure your phone can access the internet and make calls. Test by browsing the internet or sending a text.
4. Confirm Data Settings: In some cases, you may need to manually set up APN (Access Point Name) settings. The settings are generally provided by the provider, and most modern smartphones will automatically configure them.

Customer Support and Recharging

If you run into any issues or need to top-up your data, each provider offers multiple ways to manage your account.

SK Telecom

• Customer Service Number: Dial 1599-0011 for support.
• Balance Check: Dial *121# to check your balance and data usage.
• Top-Up Methods:
  • Available through the SK Telecom website or app.
  • Top-up vouchers are available at convenience stores and mobile shops.

KT (Olleh)

• Customer Service Number: Dial 080-022-8282 for support.
• Balance Check: Dial *100# to check your balance.
• Top-Up Methods:
  • Top-up options are available through KT’s website and app.
  • Vouchers are available at convenience stores across South Korea.

LG U+

• Customer Service Number: Dial 1544-0010 for assistance.
• Balance Check: Dial *100# to check your remaining balance.
• Top-Up Methods:
  • Recharge through the LG U+ app or their website.
  • Vouchers can be bought at major convenience stores or mobile shops.

---

Data Usage and Coverage in South Korea

South Korea is widely known for its ultra-fast internet and exceptional mobile network coverage. Whether you are in the bustling streets of Seoul or visiting more rural locations like Jeju Island, you’ll find that the mobile data speed is consistently impressive.

Data Speed and Coverage:

• 4G LTE: South Korea boasts one of the most advanced 4G networks in the world, with widespread coverage in both urban and rural areas. You’ll rarely experience slow speeds, even in smaller towns.
• 5G Network: In addition to 4G, South Korea has been rapidly rolling out its 5G network, especially in cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon. The availability of 5G means you can access faster download speeds for streaming and gaming, even on mobile devices.

How Much Data Do You Need?

The amount of data you need largely depends on your usage habits. If you plan to use your phone mainly for navigation, messaging, and checking emails, a lower data plan (around 1-3 GB) should suffice. However, if you want to stream videos or play online games, a higher data plan (10GB or more) might be a better fit.

Here’s a breakdown of estimated data usage for common activities:

• Web browsing: 60MB per hour
• Streaming music: 40MB per hour (depending on quality)
• Streaming video: 1GB per hour (for standard HD quality)
• Online gaming: 100MB per hour (varies depending on the game)
• Social Media: 60MB per hour (depending on the platform and content)

Coverage in Rural Areas:

Even though South Korea’s urban centers offer top-notch data speeds, rural areas like Jeju Island, mountain regions, or small towns may experience slightly slower speeds. However, the general mobile network coverage remains reliable across the country, and finding Wi-Fi hotspots in rural areas is not difficult.

International Roaming and Using Your Own SIM Card

Some travelers might prefer to use their international SIM card for their South Korea trip. While this is an option, it’s generally more expensive than purchasing a local SIM card. International roaming charges for calls, texts, and data can quickly add up. However, depending on your home country and mobile provider, you might find it more cost-effective to keep your international number active while using a local SIM for data.

Roaming Agreements:

South Korea has agreements with many international mobile providers, allowing you to roam seamlessly on a South Korean network. You can activate international roaming with your current provider before you leave, but you will face higher fees for calls, texts, and data usage.

If you plan to use your home number while in South Korea but want to avoid high roaming fees, consider these options:

1. Get a local SIM card for data: This allows you to use a South Korean network for internet access while keeping your home number active for calls or messaging.
2. Dual SIM phones: If you have a dual SIM phone, you can use both your international SIM and a local South Korean SIM simultaneously.

Renting a Wi-Fi Egg (Pocket Wi-Fi) in South Korea

Another popular option for travelers is renting a portable Wi-Fi device, often called a “Wi-Fi egg” or “pocket Wi-Fi.” This device connects to a 4G network and allows you to use multiple devices simultaneously, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

Advantages of Wi-Fi Egg:

• Multiple Device Connectivity: Perfect if you’re traveling in a group and need internet access for several devices.
• No Need for SIM Card: With a Wi-Fi egg, you don’t need to worry about buying and activating a local SIM card.
• Flexible Plans: Wi-Fi egg rentals typically come with unlimited data or large data packages, making them ideal for heavy data users.

Where to Rent: – You can rent a Wi-Fi egg at Incheon International Airport or book one in advance through websites like Klook, KKday, or Trazy. Rental shops are also available in popular tourist areas, including Myeongdong, Gangnam, and Itaewon in Seoul.

How to Rent:

• Pre-book: Reserve a Wi-Fi egg online for pick-up at the airport or your hotel.
• On the Spot: Rent a device directly at the airport. You’ll need to present your passport for registration.

Pricing: – Daily rental for a Wi-Fi egg typically costs around 5,000 to 10,000 KRW per day, with discounts for longer rental periods.

Benefits of Using a South Korean SIM Card

Using a local South Korean SIM card has several advantages compared to relying on international roaming or renting a Wi-Fi egg:

1. Cost-Effective – Local SIM cards are often far cheaper than international roaming. Whether you’re getting data, voice calls, or text messages, prepaid SIM cards in South Korea offer more affordable pricing compared to roaming services.

2. Convenience – Purchasing a SIM card upon arrival and activating it immediately allows you to stay connected from the get-go. This eliminates the hassle of figuring out how to access Wi-Fi at your hotel or other locations, which may not always be reliable.

3. High-Speed Internet – South Korea is a global leader in internet speeds, and using a local SIM card ensures that you get the best internet service, whether you’re browsing, streaming, or using data-intensive applications.

4. Easy to Top-Up – If you run out of data or need more call time, top-ups are easy to make at convenience stores or online. The ability to recharge whenever you need gives you flexibility during your trip.

5. Local Connectivity – With a South Korean SIM card, you can make local calls, access the internet, and use apps such as KakaoTalk (South Korea’s popular messaging app), Naver, and T-map for navigation, all of which are widely used throughout the country.

Additional Tips for Using a SIM Card in South Korea

1. Check Your Phone’s Compatibility: Before purchasing a SIM card, make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with South Korean mobile networks. Most modern smartphones should work, but older models may not.
2. Language Support: While many mobile stores and counters have staff who speak English, it’s always helpful to know some basic Korean phrases related to mobile plans. Common phrases include:
   • “SIM 카드” (SIM card)
   • “데이터” (data)
   • “전화” (phone)
   • “가격” (price)
3. SIM Card Activation: Some SIM cards require activation through an online form or by calling a specific number. If you’re unsure, ask for assistance at the counter or store where you purchase the card.
4. Refunds and Returns: SIM cards are typically non-refundable, but some providers may allow you to exchange your SIM card if it malfunctions. Always keep the receipt and any packaging in case of issues.
5. Prepaid vs. Postpaid: As a traveler, prepaid SIM cards are your best option because they don’t require a long-term contract or a credit check. They’re easy to top-up and come with flexible options for short stays.

personal Opinion

South Korea offers a wide range of mobile options to stay connected during your visit. Whether you choose a prepaid SIM card from SK Telecom, KT (Olleh), or LG U+, or decide to rent a Wi-Fi egg, you’ll have reliable and fast internet throughout your stay. By purchasing a local SIM card, you can ensure seamless communication and stay connected with ease while enjoying everything this technologically advanced country has to offer.

When you arrive, simply visit one of the many stores at the airport or around the city, pick the best plan for your needs, and enjoy your time in South Korea without worrying about high roaming fees or data limitations. Happy travels!