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All About Korea SIM Card 2023

Trazy Crew

Do you want to stay connected 24/7 in Korea? Check out the best SIM card options in Korea on Trazy!

Preparing the right SIM card for you is one of the most essential things you should do before flying to Korea. Especially because of COVID-19, it is more important to get your SIM card ready in advance! Find the right SIM card that suits you the best, including quarantine options.

Before Getting a SIM Card

1. Check whether your phone is unlocked or not. If your phone is locked, call your mobile phone carrier to unlock it.

*If you are from the US, Canada, or Japan, make sure you check with your carrier before traveling to Korea. If your phone device is locked, you won’t be able to use some of the prepaid SIM Cards.

2. Make sure your device supports GSM network frequencies. You can find all the info about your phone device via the GSM Arena website, or to see if your mobile is compatible with Korean mobile carrier networks, click here. Then see if your device supports one of the GSM network frequencies below:

  • 4G LTE Bands: Band 1(2100MHz), Band 3(1800MHz), Band 8(900MHz)
  • 3G Bands: HSDPA 2100MHz/HSDPA+

Where to Buy a SIM Card

The most convenient and easiest way to buy a SIM Card is to buy it online in advance.

To buy it offline, you can purchase it at Incheon Airport or outlets run by Korean mobile service providers: KT, SKT, LG U+. Major convenience stores, such as GS25, CU, Seven Eleven, also provide SIM cards.

Choosing the Right SIM Card Type


Usually, most iPhone devices use a Nano-SIM and most Android phones use a Micro or Nano SIM, but it’s best to check the specifications of your phone.

Nevertheless, we highly recommend you buy a universal type USIM Card, which is compatible with phones using any type of SIM card (Standard, Micro, or Nano-SIM).

Steady-Selling Korea SIM Cards that Suit You the Best

1. Unlimited Data Only

| Ideal for: short-term visitors & business travelers who only need data

For those of you who are staying in Korea for a short term and only need unlimited data, there are three options you can choose according to your pick-up location and the duration of your stay in Korea. You’ll stay connected anywhere in Korea, including Jeju Island, Nami Island, DMZ, and use the LTE network of KT (Olleh), the largest wireless operator in Korea.

Option 1: Unlimited Data + Optional Voice & SMS (3~30 day)

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Unlimited data for days you choose after pick up the SIM card
    *Credit charging is required before using Voice or SMS. If you don’t charge voice & SMS credits upon picking up the SIM card, your SIM card will ONLY support incoming calls & SMS.
  • Pick up locations: Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1 & 2), Myeongdong Office, Gimpo International Airport, Gimhae International Airport (Busan), Busan Port

Option 2: Unlimited Data Only (1~30 day)

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Unlimited data for days you choose after pick up the SIM card
    3) Incoming local calls
    4) Incoming local text messages
  • Pick up locations:
    1) Available: Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1 & 2), Gimpo International Airport, Gangbyeon Station (Technomart), Gimhae International Airport (Busan), Busan Port International Passenger Terminal, Daegu International Airport

2. Unlimited Data + Voice call + SMS (up to 30 days) 

| Ideal for short-term visitors & business travelers who need to receive/send voice calls 

For those who want to use an all-in-one package with high-speed data, voice calls, and SMS, this SIM Card with Unlimited Data and KRW 11,000 Credit for Voice Call & SMS is the perfect option.

Unlimited Data + KRW 11,000 Credit for Voice Call & SMS

  • Options:
    5- day / 10-day / 20-day / 30-day SIM Card
  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Unlimited data at 4G/LTE speeds
    3) KRW 11,000 basic credit: You can make calls and send SMS from basic credits as soon as you activate the SIM card.
  • Pick up locations:
    1) Available: Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 & 2, Gimpo International Airport, Gimhae International Airport (Busan)
    2) Unavailable until further notice: Busan Port International Passenger Terminal

3. Unlimited Data + Voice Call + SMS (30~90 days) 

| Ideal for: long-term visitors, international/exchange students

If you are planning on staying in Korea for the long term, this 30-day 4G/LTE SIM card is perfect for you. With this SIM Card plan, you can enjoy phone calls, text messages, and 4G/LTE data for 30 days after activation.

Option 1: 30-day Unlimited Lite Data

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) KRW 36,300 credit (KRW 1,210 usage fee deduction each day)
    3) Unlimited local calling for 30 days (dialing)
    4) Unlimited local text messages (sending)

Option 2: 30-day Unlimited Data + 100 Min Voice + 100 SMS

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) KRW 39,600 credit (KRW 1,320 usage fee deduction each day)
    3) 100-minute of local calling (dialing)
    4) 100 local text messages (sending)

Option 3: 30-day Unlimited Data/Voice/SMS

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) KRW 58,500 credit (KRW 1,950 usage fee deduction each day)
    3) Unlimited local calling for 30 days (dialing)
    4) Unlimited local text messages (sending)
  • Pick up locations:
    1) Available: Myeongdong Office

4. Prepaid SIM Card: Data + Voice + SMS (90 days)

| Ideal for long-term visitors who are looking for pay-as-you type plans and want to pick up from Seoul

For those who are looking for a perfect SIM card for a long-term stay and pay-as-you type plan, this 90-day Prepaid SIM Card is highly recommended! You can choose from KRW 50,000 or KRW 100,000 credit and have credits deducted only when you use your phone.  

Prepaid SIM Card: Date + Voice + SMS (90 days)

  • Options:
    KRW 50,000 Won Credits / KRW 100,000 Credits SIM Card
  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Credits: KRW 50,000 or 100,000
    3) Data: KRW 20.84 per MB
    4) Voice: KRW 1.98 per second (Incoming calls are free of charge)
    5) SMS: KRW 22 per SMS (Incoming SMS is free of charge)
  • Pick up locations: Myeongdong Station

5. Unlimited Data + Voice + SMS (30~120 days)

| Ideal for: exchange students who are looking for a long-term SIM card for one semester at an affordable price

This long-term SIM card is especially recommended to international exchange students who are planning to stay in Korea for one semester. It’s the perfect SIM card for people who are looking for a prepaid long-term SIM card with unlimited data and everything! It’s super cost-effective and you can choose the data speed (speed-up plan & basic plan) and the period.

Option 1: Speed-up Plan

  • Validity: 30 days / 60 days / 90 days / 120 days
  • Data: 10GB at 4G/LTE speeds  per 30 days (after you use all of the 10GB of monthly data allowance, you will be able to use 2GB of data at 4G/LTE speeds per day.)
  • Voice: unlimited dialing/outgoing (local calls only / incoming calls are free of charge)
  • SMS: unlimited sending/outgoing (local SMS only / incoming SMS is free of charge)
  • SIM Card Extension: only available for 90-day & 120-day plan users

Option 2: Basic Plan

  • Validity: 30 days / 60 days / 90 days / 120 days
  • Data: 300MB at 4G/LTE speeds per 30 days (after you use all 300MB at the full LTE speeds, you can use unlimited data at 3Mbps speeds.)
  • Voice: unlimited dialing/outgoing (local calls only / incoming calls are free of charge)
  • SMS: unlimited sending/outgoing (local SMS only / incoming SMS is free of charge)
  • SIM Card Extension: only available for 90-day & 120-day plan users

6. Unlimited Data Only Sim Card (5~60 days) + T-money (Transport Card)

| Ideal for: short-term & long-term visitors who will frequently use public transportation

For those who want to stay connected 24/7, and conveniently travel by public transportation, this data-only SIM card and T-money combo is perfect for you! With this SIM card, you can get access to super fast 4G/LTE data anywhere in Korea. Also, you can top up the credits for T-money at any subway station or convenience stores, such as GS25, CU, Seven-Eleven.

Unlimited Data (5~60 Days) + T-money

  • Options:
    5- day / 10-day / 20-day / 30-day / 40-day / 60-day SIM Card
  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Unlimited 4G/LTE Data
    3) Prepaid T-money Transportation Card
  • Pick up locations:
    1) Available: Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 & 2, Gimpo International Airport, Gimhae International Airport (Busan)

7. Korea eSIM: Unlimited Data Only

| Ideal for: short-term visitors who want to avoid the hassles of picking up a SIM card

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a new type of SIM card, where you can download a SIM card to your phone without needing a physical SM card. You just have to download your eSIM to your phone using the provided QR code. You don’t have to visit a pickup booth or change out your current SIM card, which is absolutely hassle-free and untact!

4G/LTE Korea eSIM by KT: Unlimited Data Only for iPhones

  • Options:
    1) Premium Unlimited Data Only (5~30 Days)
  • This data-only sim card does NOT come with a Korean local phone number.
  • This eSIM is for unlocked iPhones ONLY.

4G/LTE Korea eSIM by SKT: Unlimited Data for both Android & iPhone

  • Options:
    1) Premium Unlimited Data Only (1~30 Days)
  • This data-only sim card does NOT come with a Korean local phone number.
  • This eSIM is for unlocked eSIM-compatible phones ONLY.

8. Monthly Plan SIM Card: Data + Voice Call + SMS (No Contract)

| Ideal for: expats living in Korea

For those who are living in Korea, simply purchase a monthly pay SIM card on Trazy, and don’t worry about topping up credits. You just have to follow 3 simple steps to purchase and activate this SIM card.

Monthly Post Pay SIM Card: Data + Voice Call + SMS

  • Process:
    Step 1.     Purchase “Monthly Plan SIM Card” on Trazy.
    Step 2. Visit the SIM card activation office located near Hongik Univ. Station. (Details will be sent to you in the booking confirmation email)
    Step 3. At the office, simply choose a monthly plan and activate your SIM card.
  • Pick up location: Myeongdong Office

9. Post-Paid Smartphone Rental Service

If you need a smartphone while staying in Korea, simply rent a smartphone and get access to data, voice, and SMS text right away! Your phone number will be issued to you before picking up your phone, making it possible for you to let people know your number in advance.

4G/LTE Post-Paid Smartphone Rental Service

  • Included:
    1)     Smartphone & charger rental (Galaxy S7/Galaxy Note 5)
    2) Daily Fee: KRW 3,300 per day
    3) Unlimited Data (Included in daily fee)
    4) Local outgoing/dialing: KRW 11 per second
    5) SMS local outgoing/sending: KRW 110 per SMS
    6) Photo MMS local outgoing/sending: KRW 1,100 per photo MMS
    7) Video MMS local outgoing/sending: KRW 2,420 per video MMS
  • Pick-up locations: Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1 & 2), Gimpo International Airport, Gangbyeon Station (Technomart), Gimhae International Airport (Busan), Busan Port International Passenger Terminal, Daegu International Airport

Hassle-Free SIM Card Delivery Service 

1. Korea SIM Card International Delivery Service

If you want to get your Korean SIM card and your Korean phone number before flying to Korea, order this Korea SIM card international delivery service! It’s a reliable delivery service with a tracking code to every country using EMS, German Post, CJ, and USPS. Topping up or extending the SIM card is available via an app (Android/iOS) or website.

4G/LTE Korea SIM Card International Delivery Service: Data + Voice + SMS

  • Options:
    1) Medium Plan (30 Days): Data (1GB of 4G/LTE Data), Voice & SMS (Included credits: KRW 3,000)
    2) Large Plan (30 Days): Data (2GB of 4G/LTE Data), Voice & SMS (Included: KRW 3,000)
    3) Premium Plan (30 Days): Unlimited Data (12GB of 4G/LTE Data), Voice & SMS (Unlimited incoming/outgoing calls & SMS within Korea)
    4) Premium Plus Plan (30 Days): Unlimited Data (100GB of 4G/LTE Data), Voice & SMS (Unlimited incoming/outgoing calls & SMS within Korea)
  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) International shipping fee
  • Pick up locations: at your shipping address

2. Receive SIM Card by Postal Parcel in Korea Only  (30~90 days)

For those who want a SIM card to be delivered to an address in Korea, conveniently use a postal parcel service. Please keep in mind that the SIM card delivery service is not available on Jeju Island.

Option 1: 3/7 Day Unlimited Data Only

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Postal parcel shipping fee
    2) Unlimited data at 4G/LTE speeds

Option 2: 30-Day Unlimited Data/Voice/SMS

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Postal parcel shipping fee
    3) KRW 58,500 credit (KRW 1,950 usage fee deduction each day)
    4) Unlimited local calling for 30 days (dialing)
    5) Unlimited local text messages (sending)

Option 3: 30-Day Unlimited Data + 100 Min Voice + 100 SMS

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Postal parcel shipping fee
    3) KRW 39,600 credit (KRW 1,320 usage fee deduction each day)
    4) 100-minute of local calling (dialing)
    5) 100 local text messages (sending)

Option 4: 30-day Unlimited Lite Data/Voice/SMS

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Postal parcel shipping fee
    3) KRW 36,300 credit (KRW 1,210 usage fee deduction each day)
    4) Unlimited local calling for 30 days (dialing)
    5) Unlimited local text messages (sending)

Option 5: 90-day Prepaid SIM Card

  • Included:
    1)     Mobile SIM Card (universal type)
    2) Postal parcel shipping fee
    3) KRW 50,000 or 100,000 credit

3. Long-Term SIM Card Delivery Service in Korea Only (30~120 days)

If you staying in Korea for up to 120 days, this cost-effective long-term SIM card is highly recommended! You can simply receive your SIM card from home in Korea with easy & reliable delivery service. You can choose from the speed-up plan and a basic plan.

Option 1: Speed-up Plan

  • Validity: 30 days / 60 days / 90 days / 120 days
  • Data: 10GB at 4G/LTE speeds  per 30 days (after you use all of the 10GB of monthly data allowance, you will be able to use 2GB of data at 4G/LTE speeds per day.)
  • Voice: unlimited dialing/outgoing (local calls only / incoming calls are free of charge)
  • SMS: unlimited sending/outgoing (local SMS only / incoming SMS is free of charge)
  • SIM Card Extension: only available for 90-day & 120-day plan users

Option 2: Basic Plan

  • Validity: 30 days / 60 days / 90 days / 120 days
  • Data: 300MB at 4G/LTE speeds per 30 days (after you use all 300MB at the full LTE speeds, you can use unlimited data at 3Mbps speeds.)
  • Voice: unlimited dialing/outgoing (local calls only / incoming calls are free of charge)
  • SMS: unlimited sending/outgoing (local SMS only / incoming SMS is free of charge)
  • SIM Card Extension: only available for 90-day & 120-day plan users

Extending Your SIM Card Plan

For those who want to extend the expiry date of their SIM Card plan, visit the operator’s outlets or contact them directly.

If your SIM Card terminates, any recharge or extension is not feasible, so make sure you check and recharge your plan from time to time before your card expires and terminates.

Do You Want WiFi Instead of SIM Card?

If you don’t have to make voice or phone calls or send text messages, then renting a portable WiFi egg (1~17 days) is the perfect option for you. If you want to rent one, click here.

For those who are planning a long-term stay in Korea, rent long-term pocket wifi (18 days or more) with an unlimited data plan. You can pick up from Incheon International Airport (Terminals 1 & 2), Gimpo International Airport, Gimhae International Airport (Busan), and Busan Port International Passenger Terminal.

Read more: An Ultimate Guide to Pocket Wifi Rental in Korea

If you want to have all the travel essentials upon arriving at the airport, check out this blog to enjoy your Korea trip without hassle!

Visit Korea’s #1 Travel Shop, Trazy.com, for the most up-to-date travel information and destinations in Korea!

208 thoughts on “All About Korea SIM Card 2023”

  2. Pingback: Prepaid SIM Cards VS Pocket WiFi South Korea: Which Is Best? – TRAZY.COM

  3. Is there a pre-paid SIM card where the data is usable after the first 30 days unlike EG SIM? I travel to Korea several times a year and would prefer to not have to buy a card every time a I go.

    Reply

    1. All the pre-paid SIM Cards have an expiration date, so you will have to buy the SIM Card every time you visit Korea. While the EG SIM Card can be used up to 30 days and is rechargeable, there is a prepaid 4-G LTE Data SIM Card, which is suitable for long-term foreign visitors to Korea, and you can use it up to 90 days after activation. Perhaps this can be a good option for you if you travel to Korea frequently. Please refer to the link for details: https://goo.gl/LOfZw0.

      Reply

  4. Hi, I’m looking for a post paid SIM card that is less the 7,000won per month with 100mins of calls and 500mb of data. My Korean partner has one with annextel but it’s not available for foreigners. Are there options for us foreigners who want to live in Korea permanently?

    Reply

    2. Hi,
      I will be an international student in Korea for 6 months. I would only use data when I don’t have access to wifi, and probably won’t use the text/call features.
      For the Basic long-term plan, I looked at the price on the Website, but it is unclear whether a 120 days Sim card is 80,000 KRW total OR 36,000 KRW per month (so around 216,000 KRW total) . If it’s the first, then it would be worth it, but not if it’s the second.
      Thank you!

      Reply

  5. Hey! I will be going to Seoul shortly as an exchange student for four months. The 90 sim care you linked sounded ideal, however I will be in Korea for more than 90 days. Are there any other sim cards that you could recommend? I am mainly looking for data, yet messaging/call options would be great too! Thanks 🙂

    Reply

    1. Hello Eloise! We believe that buying this long-term prepaid 4G-LTE Data SIM card is the best option since you are staying more than 90 days. 🙂 This one is catered to international students and long-term travelers staying in Korea, which allows you to make phone calls and use text messages and 4G/LTE data for up to 90 days. You can top up the balance at the customer center near Hongik University or any GS25, CU or 7-Eleven convenience stores around you. Since you are staying more than 90 days, you will have to extend the expiration date and you can do that by visiting the customer center with your alien registration card and change the SIM Card before the expiration date. The phone number will remain the same, so no worries. Hope this answers your question, and if you wish to make a purchase, here’s the link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-international-student 🙂

      Reply

  6. Hello,

    I’m planning to get the Prepaid 4G-LTE Data Sim Card for International Students. Can I check what do you mean by making sure the phone is unlocked? Personally I don’t have a passcode on my phone so is that ok?

    Also, I will be extending the usage to 120 days instead of the default 90 days. Can I ask at what additional price will the extension cost?

    Thanks 🙂

    Reply

    1. Hello, Gynn Leow! Please refer to the below for your inquiries:
      1. Lock is meant to ensure that the phone can’t be used on any other operator’s network. If you would like to use your phone in other countries, you have to make sure your phone is a unlocked phone. You can simply check by calling the carrier in your home country and ask whether your phone is unlocked.
      2. To use the SIM card over 90 days, you have to visit the sim card office with an alien registration card. There will be an additional cost of 20,000 KRW for changing the registered information and extending the expiry date. Hope these answer your questions! 🙂

      Reply

      1. Thanks for the reply.

        In my home country, I’m currently using a 4G plan with 4 GB data per month and did my calculations. Under the international plan, it is KRW 20.48/MB, that translates to KRW 20,480/GB.
        If I use my phone as per normal, I will use about 3.5 GB at the minimum. That means i’ll be paying KRW 71,680 to KRW 81,920 per month just for data.

        That is actually quite expensive! :O

        I would like to know if the KT operator has wireless that we can tap into throughout the country and not just in Seoul. Does the wireless extend to Busan, Jeju and the like? If it does, then I will be able to save on my 4G data usage.
        Thanks!

        Reply

  7. Ok thank you for the reply!

    I do have one more question actually. This international student sim card does not have access to KT free wifi network, correct?
    What other plans are available that do have access to the KT free wifi network, then?

    I also saw on this website https://seoulsally.wordpress.com/tag/olleh/
    that says that you can get a prepaid LTE 2GB for 19,800 won which is alot cheaper than this international student one. So now I am abit uncertain about this.

    Reply

    1. Hi Gynn Leow!
      Unfortunately, all the prepaid SIM cards on Trazy does not have access to KT free WiFi network. Also, regarding the article that you have mentioned, we doubt that the same SIM card plan is still available since the post was written in 2015. We recommend you to visit KT Olleh in Korea and get more detailed information. Instead, let me summarize the SIM cards on our website for you. Please take your time and compare with other SIM cards and choose the best one for you.
      1. Prepaid 4G-LTE Data SIM Card for International Students
      – It can be used up to 90 days after activation. (You can extend the days by visiting SIM card office with alien registration card)
      – 40,000 won balance is included in the price.
      – Rates:
      Local calls (dialing) – 1.98won/min
      Local SMS (sending) – 22won/message
      Receiving calls/SMS – free
      Data (4G LTE) – 20.48won/MB
      2. Unlimited 4G LTE Data Pacakge
      – You can choose between 5-day, 10-day, and 30-day option.
      – Enjoy unlimited data anywhere throughout Korea
      Hope this info helps! 🙂

      Reply

      1. Hi Trazy crew!

        Thanks for writing up this blog post — definitely a life saver! 🙂 I will be studying for 3 months without an ARC. I am considering the 4G LTE SIM for International Students but am hesitant given I am a heavy data-consumer.

        Can I just clarify:
        For EG Sim Card and Unlimited 4G LTE Package options, there is a max of 1 SIM per person, with the longest time period being 30 days. Is it possible to recharge/renew for 3- 30-day SIMs, or are foreigners limited to 1- 30-day subscription?

        Thanks!

        Reply

        1. Hello Vivian! Thank you for your compliment and we are glad that you find this post helpful. At any rate, regarding your question, the maximum days of use for our EG SIM Card (with a mobile data and voice plan only) and unlimited LTE Data Only SIM Card are 30 days. But whenever you recharge the EG SIM Card upon your need during 30-day period, you will be able to use it 30 days more per 10,000 KRW of recharge. However, we also have a 4G-LTE Data SIM Card for international students and long-term travelers, which can be used for up to 90 days. In terms of cost, we recommend you to purchase this SIM Card instead of purchasing one EG SIM Card ($23) or three 30-day Unlimited 4G LTE Data Only SIM Card (3 x $57 ea = $171) as it only costs $26 USD and already includes a balance of 40,000 KRW. You can top up this SIM Card upon your need during the 90-day period, but please do take note that since you don’t have an alien registration card you will not be able to extend the SIM Card when it expires. You can purchase the SIM Card for international students and find more info via this link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-international-student Hope this answers your question! 🙂

          Reply

  8. Hi. I’m actually leaving Korea with my Galaxy S 5. I was wondering if you sell phone cards and a sim card that I can use when I’m back in the US?

    Reply

  9. HI THERE I JUST WANT TO ASK IF I GET THE UNLIMITED DATA ONLY SIM WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY VIBER APP? JUST WONDERING BECAUSE I WILL BE NEEDING A KOREAN NUMBER AT THAT TO USE VIBER APP. NOT SURE THOUGH FOR ALL DATA SIM CARD. PLEASE HELP THANK YOU

    Reply

    1. Hi memee manalo! The unlimited data only SIM Card does not provide you a local phone number, so in order to use Viber, we advise you to make the account and log in with your home country phone number first. Then, you will be able to use Viber with the data SIM Card you have purchased from us.

      Reply

  10. hello, i was wondering. I have already owned a TP-Link 4G-LTE mobile wifi. I will be going for vacation with 2 friends for 5-6 days in Seoul. Will be going to Nami island and some other places not too far from Seoul. What is your recommendation and how can I do my reservation. thank you

    Reply

  11. I am going to be in Korea for 30 days and I have a Iphone 7 Plus, which required a Nano Sim Card. Does the “Universal Sim Card” work on my phone?

    Reply

    1. Hi, Heather Hong. All of the prepaid SIM Cards available on Trazy.com provide you with a universal type SIM, which is compatible with phones using standard, micro and nano SIM. If you are looking for a data-only SIM Card, you can purchase it via this link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/korea-sim-card-unlimited-data. If you would like to make phone calls, send SMS and use data, this prepaid SIM Card is recommended: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-international-student. Hope this info helps! 🙂

      Reply

  12. Hi there,

    I’ve just arrived in Korea and will be staying for a year. I already have an unlocked iPhone from South Africa and would like to buy a prepaid SIM card – that has a local number and data. Went into a few stores today and they weren’t able to assist. What would you suggest is the best option? Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Hello Jenna! We recommend this Prepaid SIM Card that you can use up to 90 days, and it is the best for long-term travelers. You can make phone calls, text messages and use 4G/LTE data with this SIM Card. You can find more details or buy the SIM Card via this link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-international-student. You can extend the expiration date for your SIM Card by visiting the customer center near Hongik University Station with your alien registration card. Hope this info helps! 🙂

      Reply

  13. Hi there!
    Thank you so much for the comprehensive review but I have a few questions I hope you can help clarify! 🙂
    I am going on a summer exchange with a group of friends for ~35 days and I’m not sure which one of the two is the most cost effective option and I would love to hear your input!
    Do both the unlimited 4G SIM card and EG Prepaid card provide instant connection to wifi spots in Korea? (Which do not require constant logging in etc?) We are all generally heavy data users (esp on Facebook!), but with the various wifi hotspots in Seoul, the EG Prepaid card does seem like a cheaper alternative!
    Plus, we are expected to arrive at Incheon at 6am, and do you suggest purchasing it in Korea or purchase it before we arrive?
    Hope to hear a reply soon, and thanks again for clarifying all of my doubts!
    Sabrina
    (First timer in Korea!)

    Reply

    1. Hi, thank you for contacting us.
      Here’s our comment for your questions.
      1. With EG Sim Card, you can use free wifi service from KT (Olleh). However if you use data constantly, it will be much convenient for you to use Unlimited Data Sim Card. The speed of 4G data is 5mbps and it will be suitable for your daily usage.
      2. If you would like to purchase the sim card at a discounted price on Trazy, please complete the payment in advance.
      We hope this answers your question. If you need further assistance, please let us know 🙂
      Thank you.

      Reply

  14. Hi
    I’m going for a 12 days trip to both Busan and Seoul in July. May I ask if the unlimited data SIM card is still available to date? My friends are now in Seoul and they went to visit the booth at the INC airport but they told me that there were no data-only sim cards available.

    Also, I have an iPhone 6S – how do I check if it is locked? Previously I went to Bangkok and I managed to change to their local sim card.

    Thank you.

    Reply

  15. when using a sim card purchased in korea for the duration of your visit (i.e. 30 days), do they supply a local (korean) number (i.e. 010-xxxx-xxxx) or do i continue to use my phone number from home? and if so, does that mean people in korea has to dial my foreign number to reach me even though i am in korea?

    Reply

    1. Hello esbyly, you will be provided with a local Korean phone number if you purchase our “Korea SIM Card – Mobile Data (3G data) & Voice Plan (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/510)” or “Prepaid 4G/LTE Data Sim Card: 90 Days or More (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1575)”. Please make sure to purchase either two as there is a “data-only” SIM Card as well, such as “Korea Sim Card – Unlimited 4G/LTE Data Package (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1109),” with which you can only use data and are unable make or receive any calls. Hope this answers your question!:)

      Reply
  16. Pingback: Travel: Seoul Korea! (Data plans) | Notepadscribbles

  17. I’m looking to stay in Seoul for 14 days. Unlimited data sim is ideal for me, but it jumps from 10 day to 30 day plan. Is there a way to get a 14 day plan? Or would I be able to get both a 10 day unlimited sim and a 5 day unlimited sim, but activate my 5 day sim after I finish up 10 days?

    Reply

    1. Hello kitkat671! If you are staying in Korea for 14 days, we highly recommend you to purchase 1 (one) 10-day SIM Card and 1 (one) 5-day SIM Card to save the money. 🙂
      However, only 1 (one) Sim Card can be purchased per person due to policy.

      Therefore, in this case, you will first have to make your reservation for the 10-day SIM Card (Select “Incheon Airport”) and then purchase the 5-day SIM Card (Select “Hongik University Station Office”) on any date before the first 10-day SIM Card gets expired.

      *You will be given a manual from Hongik University Station branch so that you can activate the sim card on your own.
      *For details on pick-up locations, please click this link: http://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1109

      Reply

  18. I plan to go to Korea for 14 days. Unlimited data plan is ideal, however, it jumps from 10 day plan to 30 day plan. Would I be able to purchase both a 10 day unlimited sim and 5 day unlimited sim, but activate the 5 day unlimited sim after my 10 days are up?

    Reply

    1. Hello katbayson! If you are staying in Korea for 14 days, we highly recommend you to purchase 1 (one) 10-day SIM Card and 1 (one) 5-day SIM Card to save the money. 🙂
      However, only 1 (one) Sim Card can be purchased per person due to policy.

      Therefore, in this case, you will first have to make your reservation for the 10-day SIM Card (Select “Incheon Airport”) and then purchase the 5-day SIM Card (Select “Hongik University Station Office”) on any date before the first 10-day SIM Card gets expired.

      *You will be given a manual from Hongik University Station branch so that you can activate the sim card on your own.
      *For details on pick-up locations, please click this link: http://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1109

      Reply

  19. Hello,
    If I get a prepaid sim card for my phone at a local 7-Eleven in Seoul, how much should I top off if I want to use data for 30 days? The 4G Unlimited Data plan sounds ideal but I cannot go back to the airport to purchase one, so what would be the best equivalent with an EG sim card?

    Reply

    1. Hello ByronZ! If you purchase a SIM Card at a convenience store, the amount of money you would like to top up your SIM Card would vary depending on how much data you use. Our “Korea SIM Card – Unlimited 4G/LTE Data Package” does offer a 30-day SIM Card that you can pick it up from Hongik University Station Office, so please click this link http://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/korea-sim-card-unlimited-data if you want to purchase the SIM Card. 🙂

      Reply

  20. Hello,

    I am interested in purchasing the Korea Sim Card – Unlimited 4G/LTE Data Package for 30 days. However, I still want the ability to be able to call. Is there an option where I would have unlimited 4G/LTE data + voice call? Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Hello Grace Wang! The SIM Cards available on our website that provide you with a voice plan are EG Sim Card with 3G mobile data and voice plan (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/korea-sim-card-prepaid-mobile-data-eg-sim-card), which you can use up to 30 days, and a SIM Card with 4G/LTE data and voice plan (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-long-term), which you can use up to 90 days. If you would like to make voice calls, you may want to purchase either the two types of SIM Cards aforementioned. 🙂

      Reply

  21. Hi Trazy,

    Thanks for the informative post! It’s really useful. For the Prepaid 4G-LTE Data Sim Card for International Students, are there any monthly data plans that I can purchase with the available balance? Or is it strictly charged based on the given rates as shown below?

    Local calls (dialing) – 1.98won/min
    Local SMS (sending) – 22won/message
    Receiving calls/SMS – free
    Data (4G LTE) – 20.48won/MB

    Reply

    1. Hello 123! We’re glad to hear that you find this blog post helpful. 🙂 Regarding your inquiry, the rates are fixed for the Prepaid 4G-LTE Data SIM Card for International Students as well as for all the other prepaid SIM Cards available on our website. Hope this answers your question! 😉

      Reply

  22. I move to Korea two weeks ago and still haven’t bought a SIM card. So I can just go into a GS25 and buy my SIM. I want the Unlimited 4G/LTE Data – No Voice Calls (Up to 30 days). Will the SIM card state this on the packaging?

    Reply

    1. Hi IU! You can buy SIM Cards at Korean convenience stores, but we cannot assure you that you will find the SIM Card that you want to buy, which is a SIM Card with 4G LTE Data. The SIM Card with unlimited 4G LTE data (no voice calls) is available on our website and you can purchase it online via this link: http://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1109. After your purchase is made, you can pick it up at the KT SIM Card office near Hongik University Station, which is the most accessible pick-up location within the city of Seoul. If you want a SIM Card with 4G LTE data (with voice calls) instead, please check out this link: http://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1575. 🙂

      Reply

  23. Hi there. Im staying in korea for about 40 days. I was planning get the 4g lte data with calls, so i wondering
    1. does this me its unlimited data with 4g speed?
    2. Can i make and receive calls from broad?
    3. Which plan would recommend that has unlimited data for 40days.
    Thanks.

    Reply

    1. Hi Sindy! At this moment, a prepaid SIM Card that can suit all of your needs is not available. So we recommend you getting the Prepaid 4G/LTE Sim Card (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1575), which can be used up to 30 days or 90 days.

      If you choose the 90-day option, you will be provided with a balance of 40,000 KRW and 4G-LTE data, however the data and voice calls and messages are limited.
      On the other hand, the 30-day option provides you with unlimited calls and messages but the data is limited (10GB of 4G-LTE data) and you will also have to extend another 30-day period by topping up 58,500 KRW, which is not highly recommended since you are going to stay for 40 days.

      Therefore, it’ll be best for you get the Prepaid 4G/LTE Sim Card with a 30-day option, and then additionally get the data-only Unlimited 4G/LTE Sim Card (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1109) for your next 10 days during your stay in Korea.

      Hope this helps!

      Reply

  24. Hi!
    I have a question, I am planning to get the 5 days 4G/LTE data on my trip. Although i’m staying for 6 days, how can I extend my subscription for a day? Is it possible? Thank you!

    Reply

  25. Hi
    I am going to Seoul for 9 days.
    However, I need to use Google Maps on my phone to get around in Seoul – and at the same time I would like to be able to make calls.
    What is the best option for me regarding SIM card?

    Reply

    1. Hello, Bodil Bering! We do have a prepaid SIM Card with a 10-day option, however voice calls are not available for this SIM Card. Therefore, the best option for you is our Prepaid 3G Sim Card with Data, Voice Call and SMS, which you can use up to 30 days. You can make your purchase via this link: http://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/510 Hope this helps!

      Reply

  26. Hello! What is the cheapest way to get internet for just a day? I just have a 15hr layover and need internet to get around the city. Please and thank you!

    Reply

  27. Hello… I’ll be visiting south korea next week.. I just wanna know if i am allowed to buy a phone in seoul if i am just a tourist. Hope to hear from you guys. Thanks in advanced.

    Reply

    1. Hello, Belle. You can buy a phone in Korea even if you are a tourist, but you will have to pay full price for the phone. So instead of buying, renting a phone or buying a prepaid SIM Card can be a better option. You can purchase your prepaid SIM Card (www.trazy.com/experience/detail/1109) on our website or if you’d like to rent a phone in Korea, please contact SK Telecom (+82-02-6343-9000 from abroad or 080-2525-011 from domestic) or visit their website for more details (www.skroaming.com/reserve/reserve_phone.asp). Hope this info helps!

      Reply

    1. Hello Nic! We cannot guarantee that our prepaid SIM Cards will be compatible with your Wi-Fi router. The SIM Card might work if it is compatible with your device, however you will able to find out once you purchase and receive your SIM Card and insert into your WiFi router. Please take note that the prepaid sim cards are non-refundable once you receive. Hope this answers your question. 🙂

      Reply

  29. Hi, If I have an wifi egg (Huawei) device that covers 4G/LTE for Korea, can I just buy a prepaid sim and put it into the wifi egg to use data?

    Reply

    1. Hello John! We cannot guarantee that our prepaid SIM Cards will be compatible with your Wi-Fi router. The SIM Card might work if it is compatible with your device, however you will able to find out once you purchase and receive your SIM Card and insert into your WiFi router. Please take note that the prepaid sim cards are non-refundable once you receive. Hope this answers your question. 🙂

      Reply

  30. Hi, I am planning to purchase a 5 day SIM card. If I pick up the SIM card at Incheon Airport at 18:00 on 1st Jan, does the 120 hours start from 18:00 1st Jan? If so, does that mean the SIM will expire at 17:59 on 6th Jan? Thank you.

    Reply

    1. Hello Charlie! Yes, you are correct. It is calculated on a 24-hour basis from the moment of activation and so the 5-day SIM Card is valid up to 120 hours upon activation. Hope this answers your question! 🙂

      Reply

  31. If all I want is to just send/receive SMS, which pre-paid SIM is the best option? I’d like it to last for as long as possible. Thanks 🙂

    Reply

    1. Hi Fambi! Regarding your question, There are 2 options for you: Prepaid 4G/LTE Sim Card: Data+Voice call+SMS (up to 30 days) or Prepaid 4G LTE Sim Card: Data+Voice call+SMS (30 days or more). Please refer to the below for the details:

      1. Prepaid 4G/LTE Sim Card: Data+Voice call+SMS (up to 30 days)
      1) 1GB Prepaid Sim Card
      – 275 minutes of calls to the U.S. (or 1GB of 4G LTE Data)
      – Unlimited incoming calls and SMS
      2)2GB Prepaid Sim Card
      – 550 minutes of calls to the U.S. (or 2GB of 4G LTE Data)
      – Unlimited incoming calls and SMS

      2. Prepaid 4G/LTE Sim Card: Data+Voice call+SMS (30 days or more)
      1) 30-day Unlimited SIM Card
      – Unlimited domestic calling for 30 days
      – Unlimited domestic SMS messages for 30 days
      – 10GB of 4G LTE Data valid for 30 days

      For further details, please check this link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/korea-sim-card-prepaid-4g-mobile-data / https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-long-term
      Thank you!

      Reply

  32. Hi,

    I would be sharing a WiFi router with my traveling partner but because I need to have a Korean number I would need to get a Sim Card as well. Is there any card that lets me make local calls and sms but has no or minimum data so that it is not costly?

    Thank you!

    Reply

  33. Hi trazy,
    I just bought KT sim. I am new about Korean telecom. I have 2 questions:
    1. I want to make sure it contains prepaid service. How to check with my phone to know prepaid service is activated?
    2. How to check my balance?

    Reply

    1. Hello sopheak, as soon as the prepaid sim card is activated on your phone, you will be able to use the service with the prepaid amount. Please make sure to check and see if your sim card is working successfully before leaving the booth.
      The ways of checking the balance may differ depending on the sim card company. We recommend you to check with the staff at the booth upon collecting the sim card for more details 🙂

      Reply

  34. Hi Trazy Crew,
    For the 90 days Pre-Paid Sim Cards, does it mean that when we paid USD 26, it will come with 40,000 KRW of balance to be used. It is equivalence to around 1.953GB of data usage or 337 hours talk time or 1818 SMS? What is this statement as indicated in the 90 days Pre-paid SIM Card mean “*If you buy the SIM card separately without balance, it is 8,800 KRW.”?

    Thanks as your help.
    Best Regards,
    KW

    Reply

  35. Hello! I will be in Seoul for 30 days in April and wonder what’s best for me. I want to have lots of data and be able to call within the country. Is it true that I can’t use wifi if i buy these pre-paid cards? thank you

    Reply

    1. Hi Fanny, in that case, we highly recommend you to check out the 30-day Unlimited SIM Card from this link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-long-term
      The SIM Card will provide you 10GB of 4G/LTE Data along with unlimited domestic calls/SMS messages valid for 30 days.
      *This SIM card does not have access to KT (Olleh) free wifi network but you can still use non-carrier free wifi networks such as free wifi networks provided in Starbucks or at some tourist destinations.

      Reply

  36. I will be in Korea from April 12 to May 2. I would like to make domestic phone calls in Korea. Also I would like to send text messages to my family in the United States. Also how can I use the internet on my IPad. What are my best options.

    Reply

    1. Hi Luis 🙂
      Regarding your inquiry, international texts are available only with 90-day SIM Card. If you need to use domestic phone calls as well as international texts, we recommend you to purchase this sim card. However, please note that this one is not suitable for people who use data more than 1GB per month.
      If you are planning to use more data, 30-day Unlimited SIM Card (59 USD) may suit you better.

      Reply

  37. Hi, thank you for the very informative post. I was hoping for some advise, are there differences in the speed of the prepaid SIM and the wifi egg? Also, if I get the prepaid SIM, I can use my phone as a hotspot, right?

    Reply

    1. Hi Josh,
      All SIM cards and portable wifi device provides speed at a 4G/LTE speed. However, there may be a limitation on data speed depending on the package.
      – Unlimited Data ONLY SIM card: Unlimited data at a 5mpbs speed
      – Data&Voice calls&SMS (5/7/10/15/30 day): After using 10GB of 4G/LTE data, the speed will slow down to 400kbps (unlimited)
      – Portable wifi device: After using 1GB of 4G/LTE data, the speed will slow down to 400kbps (unlimited)
      – Data&Voice call&SMS (for 30 days or more): No limitation
      +)You can use your phone as a hotspot with the prepaid SIM card. Please note that the speed may get lower.

      Reply

  38. Hi for the Prepaid 4G/LTE Sim Card: Unlimited Data+Voice call+SMS (5/7/10/15/30 days) package, will we be able to call with whatsapp as well?

    Reply

  39. Hello, I will be travelling to Jeju next week. Is there any voice call SIM card options that can be picked up there. I’ve checked the KT website but they require credit-card deposit and SIM card return so it’s kinda troublesome. Thank you.

    Reply

    1. Hello Mi Nguyen,
      Unfortunately, the local SIM Card company does not provide pickup service for voice SIM card options at Jeju Airport at the moment. We are sorry about that ;(

      Reply

  40. Hi.
    I will be staying in Korea for 80 days, and I need unlimited data card.
    Can I rent a Data SIM card for more than 30 days?
    The issue I am finding is that for regular SIM card I need credit card (which I dont have – only debit).
    And if it is not possible to get Data SIM card for more than 30 days, would it be possible to simply rent one for 30 days, then another one after that for another 30 days?
    Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Hi Milos 🙂
      Regarding the data SIM card, it is not possible to extend it. If you would like to use more than 30 days, we recommend you to purchase another SIM card (pickup is available at Hongik Univ. Station branch) after the first one expires.

      Reply

  41. hi,
    I will in Korea for 15days by next week, i abit confuse EG Sim and the data+voice plan diffrent. if mostly only use for GPS navigation and FB uploading which plan are suitable? If I buy the sim from Trazy will be require return the SIM while i leave Korea?

    Reply

  42. I got a data only plan at the airport for 5 days with LG U+. When the phone was active the increasing bars that indicate cellular strength filled up all the way. After the expiration date the bars all went away. I expected myself to no longer use data on my phone but I am actually still able to. It’s been 2 days and I have been constantly on my phone on Instagram, Browser, Etc.

    I am worried because I am staying here for another 2 months and was wondering if I will be penalized. I did provide my credit card to them but so far I have not been charged for anything. Do I have anything to worry about?

    Reply

    1. Hi Jeremy 🙂
      In that case, we highly recommend you to contact the local SIM card company where you activated or purchased the SIM card. They will be able to check your current status and assist you further.

      Reply

  44. Hello, how can I get in touch with someone about recharging my 30+ day sim card by bank transfer??

    How much is it to recharge and extend the expiry date? I paid 24000 won originally.

    Reply

    1. Hi hz 🙂
      Please contact us at ‘experience@trazy.com’. Our crew will check your booking and assist you further.

      Reply

  45. Hello, i will be going to korea to study KR language for 1 year + depending on the progress.
    Dont seem to have that information in your post. do you know which value SIMcards or which telco is best for this duration?

    Reply

  46. Hi, if I buy the 10 day sim card, Prepaid 4G/LTE Sim Card: Unlimited Data+Voice call+SMS, can i make skype calls with it?

    Reply

    1. Hi Neil,
      Yes, with the SIM card mentioned, MVoIP calls via LINE, Kakao Talk, Whatsapp, Skype or etc. is available.

      Reply

  47. Hi, I’m going to Seoul from July 12th 2018 to January 2019 and I’m wondering what is the difference between Prepaid card and “normal” card ? Like the advantages and disadvantage.
    Also, I would like to know, if with this kind of prepaid card, can I register to things like Melon which requires “Korean phone or I-pin” ?

    Thank you

    Reply

    1. Hello Manon,
      There’s no technical difference between the prepaid and postpaid SIM card 🙂 If you are planning to sign up on websites, which requires the verification process, you can simply do so by activating the SIM card with your Alien Registration Card (ARC) instead of the passport.

      Reply

  48. Hi,
    My sister and I will be traveling to Seoul, South Korea from 6/26-7/13, and want to know the best phone plan options. Is it better to purchase the sim card or to get a “cheapie” separate phone for that time period? If we chose the phone option, where could we purchase a phone inexpensively in Korea? My current phone is on the T-Mobile network, and I read online that the network is compatible in South Korea…is this true?

    Thanks, in advance!

    Reply

    1. Hi Phil 🙂
      Yes, the payment can be done via credit/debit card or cash on Trazy. However, regarding the portable wifi device rental, please make sure you must present your credit card at the pickup booth. The staff will hold your credit card open for the security deposit during your rental.

      Reply

  50. i will be doing my internship in south korea for 75 days, i am mostly looking for data. What sim card
    do u suggest for me to use?

    Reply

  51. Hi,
    I’m moving to Korea on a 2=year contract, is there a SIM that you could recommend to me, please?
    Thank you for your help, Sarah

    Reply

    1. Hi Sarah 🙂
      First, you can purchase one of the long-term SIM cards upon arrival, which can be used up to 90 days. Then, once you have your alien registration card, you can extend it for a longer period of time by visiting the office before the SIM card expires.

      Reply

  52. My son is in Seoul now to study language. He’s 18, born January, 2000, but by Korean convention won’t be 18 until January. He’s having trouble getting a SIM card through usual outlets. Can you provide him a prepaid SIM card before then?

    Reply

  53. Hi, I’m looking for the best way to be connected during my stay in South Korea. From August 29th till September 11th I’ll be touring through the country and i’d like to use internet especially for the GPS on my iPhone. From August 27th till August 29th and September 11th till September 14th I’ll be visiting Seoul but I’ll probably don’t need internet. What would you advice?

    Reply

  54. Hi, I am a foreign student who is now studying in Korea. My phone was a gift from an acquaintance and it is unlocked samsung s7 edge of lg u+. May I ask that is my phone able to use these sim cards?

    Reply

    1. Hi Long H Vu, if the device is from LG U+, KT SIM cards may not work properly. It is recommended for you to visit the office located near Hongik University Station office and check with the staff for the exact information. For further questions, please contact Trazy customer service at ‘experience@trazy.com’.

      Reply

  55. I have a Moto G XT1032 which is 3G. You mention 3G Bands: HSDPA 2100MHz/HSDPA+ but there is no mention of you selling a 3G sim card. Do you sell such a card and where can I pick it up. I fly into Seoul Inchion on Friday 19th in the morning. Thanks

    Reply

  56. Hi there,
    I’m in Seoul for the next ten days and have a US cell phone that give me unlimited data here for free. However, calls are pretty expensive. I’ll be making 5-10 calls a day. Are there any SIM card options for calls only? I know may be a hassle but I don’t mind switching cards to make calls.

    Or does Korea have any inexpensive prepaid “burner” phone options?

    Reply

    1. Hi Nana! At Trazy, we don’t have any sim card package that is only for phone calls. At the moment, we don’t have any “burner phone” package but SK Telecom has a phone rental service. If you would like to rent the phone, visit any of their branches and get the assistance of the staff on-site.

      Reply

  57. Hi, my travel trip is 3d2n at Busan from Incheon and Busan back Seoul. Total travel 14days. In my trip, I would wish to have internet and make local calls. What do you recommend for me? Thank you.

    Reply

  58. I am currently in Daegu and want to buy SIM for more than 90 days. Requirement is only Data occasionally. Could you please provide the details along with the pickup location details etc.
    Thanks in advance

    Reply

  59. Hello,

    If you didn’t recharge your prepaid sim card (Sim Red or Blue for example) after whatever limited days you got (5, 10, 30). Can you still receive calls and texts from friends in Korea? Or does your phone number or sim ever expire itself to stop incoming calls and texts?

    Reply

    1. Hi, ct! It’s possible to use the sim cards for the app verification. But please be noted that it depends on the circumstances.

      Reply

  61. Hi, If I get a SIM card, what will happen to my text messages, phone calls and voicemails on my original number while I am traveling in Korea with a Korean SIM card? Also, does the the unlimited data plan fast/strong enough to stream movies?

    Reply

    1. Hi, kt! You can receive only local texts and calls. But you can still receive&send texts and make calls via messenger app using the internet. The speed depends on circumstances but please be noted that the speed can be slow down after using more than certain data amount provided.

      Reply

  62. Hi, I am looking for a long-term simcard (12months or more) for foreigners. I have an ARC card. Any idea where or how to start?

    Reply

  63. Hi,

    I’ve had a korean sim card before for travelling but have a new phone now. Would I still need to provide the IMEI of the old phone or will it all be fine because I have a new phone now?

    Reply

    1. Hi James Park! You can purchase the sim card without ARC but when extending the sim card, ARC is required.

      Reply

  65. Hi, I’ll be staying in Korea for 2 months. I’m currently in Busan. Can you recommend cheapest SIM card option? I don’t need unlimited data, 2GB would be enough. I don’t need calls/sms.

    Reply

  66. Hi my study abroad program requires all students to have a working cell phone while in Korea. I was trying to figure out if any of the prepaid sim cards allow access to send text messages to people back home. I’m coming from the US and want to be able to reach to talk to people at home via text messages and not to always be super dependent on wifi to use KakaoTalk. Will any of these grant me the ability to text back home or should I just use one with an unlimited data plan and use the data to use kakaotalk to message people at home?

    Thank you so much

    Reply

  67. Hi, I will be in Korea for 40 days and I was wondering if I can extend the data+voice+sms (30 days) sim card for just 10 days rather than 30 days (which will cost 37,500won). If possible, how much would the extension cost?

    Also, apart from not being able to connect to KT free wifi is there any other differences between this to the voice+sms+data prepaid card offered by KT olleh themselves? Because I noticed the price between the sim cards are significantly different.

    Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Hi Hayden!
      Unfortunately, the mentioned type of the sim card can be renewed only for another 30-day period by paying a full price of 37,500won. We are not sure which sim card of KT you are referring to but with the sim card you mentioned, you will use the data provided by KT.

      Reply

  68. Which product do I need to get in order to get 010-xxxx-xxxx number instead of 070 number which I remember cannot be used much in Korea.

    Reply

    1. Hi Serin! As long as the sim card has a voice plan, you will receive the phone number starts with 010.

      Reply

  69. Hi, I’m going to Korea for an exchange term and need a SIM card that works for 120 days. I would prefer if the SIM card has unlimited data so I use the internet whenever I want. Which SIM card would you recommend?

    Reply

  71. Hi~
    I have question about Recharge amount and Extension period which I read on this weblink: http://roaming.kt.com/rental/eng/product/presim.asp
    “Prepaid SIM card recharge : You can recharge the credit from 5,500 KRW up to 55,000 KRW (VAT included).
    Prepaid SIM card validity extension : You can extend the validity of an existing SIM card for 5/10/15 days. ”
    Does this means the more days I want to extend the more I have to recharge?
    Can I recharge 5,500 KRW and extend for 10days?
    Thank you !

    Reply

  72. I bought a sim card through SKT and have been using that for 3 months now. I recently bought a new phone, can I just put the sim card into the new phone? Or must I register the new phone for that sim card?

    Reply

  73. Hi.
    I have a question, Im going to stay in Korea for 6 months and i saw your link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-long-term but..
    In the option for 30 days,
    1.- Can I extend the same plan for 5 more months? this before the 30 days ends.
    2.- In the first option of 30 days it say they have a balance for 39,600 wons, but this balance for what its? is this balance only for the calls and texts? because I understand this option have unlimited data.
    In the option for 90 days,
    1.- The option just say it have a balance for 40,000 wons, but this balance for what its? do I have to use it between calls, texts, and data?

    Reply

  76. Hi

    For the wifi egg rental, I assume that in order to work for two people’s devices, their phones should always be within the wifi zone. Correct?
    My husband and I are travelling to Korea and it looks like renting the wifi eff seems most economical as opposed to buying the pre-paid data only sim card.

    Reply

  77. For long duration stay in Seoul (less than 90 days) what would you recommend to make international calls and sms to home country as well as domestic calls and sms ??

    Reply

  78. Hello,

    How do I know if my phone is locked? If i’ve been to korea & purchased such short-term sim cards before and it worked perfectly, can I conclude that my phone is unlocked?

    Thank you!

    Reply

    1. Hi, the best way to find out if your phone is locked is to contact your telecom company that you are currently using in your own country and get the information 🙂

      Reply

  79. Hello! I will be in Korea long term so I plan to get a regular data plan in South Korea after the sim I will purchase here expires. Will I encounter any problems later on when I purchase a regular plan, if I use these airport sims? Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    1. Hi Kim!
      You can buy a 30-day sim card which is extendable or buy a 90-day sim card which will be automatically expired after 90 days.
      Hope this information helps!

      Reply

      1. I really wish you guys explained more in depth how to recharge a SIM card. Mine just expired and I cannot understand Korean to call to recharge it.

        Reply

        1. Hi!

          The information on how to top up the sim card is on/in the deal page/manual provided with the sim card/confirmation email that you received upon booking.
          Please contact the sim card company’s customer center to ask help 🙂

          Thank you!

          Reply

  81. Hi Trazy Crew, barring further pandemic-related delay, my work plans to make me go back and forth to Seoul for at least a year. i would like to have a Korean phone number, but obviously because I won’t be living there, I will not have an ARC card. Is it possible to purchase a SIM (from you or anyone else), and somehow keep the number for that entire year by topping up every 90 days (or however often)? I know I could simply just purchase a SIM card every 90 days but I would like to have the same phone number to avoid complication.

    Thanks for any tips you can provide

    Reply

    1. Hi Jimmy,
      If you don’t have the ARC, you cannot use the same phone number for more than 90 days according to Korean law.
      If you need a sim card with a voice plan or if you need a Korean phone number to use while you don’t have the ARC, you may need to purchase a 90-day sim card every 3 months.

      We hope this answers your inquiry.
      Thank you.

      Reply

  82. Hi Trazy Crew,
    I will be visiting Korea in about one month and stay 30-60 days. Can I purchase this SIM card in US before I start my travel or do I need to buy it once I arrive in Korea? How will the arrangements for pick up of SIM card work if it’s a pick up in Korea with the quarantine in place? Thank you for guidance. Andy

    Reply

    1. Hi Andy!

      You can make online booking even before you depart for Korea by choosing the preferred pickup date or purchase a sim card at the airport upon arrival.
      But please be aware that the price is quite different when you purchase it online or on-site.
      If you book in advance, a voucher with the directions to the booth will be sent to you.
      Even during the pandemic, those who arrive in Korea can stop by a booth to get the sim card at the airport.

      We hope this answers your inquiry.
      Thank you!

      Reply

  83. Hello Trazy. I’m an exchange student who needs to quarantine for 14 days in Korea. I was wondering if I could switch my sim card plan from the self quarantine package to the unlimited 90 day plan after the self quarantine package is done? Would I be able to keep the same korean phone number if I switch the SIM card plans? Thank you!

    Reply

    1. Hi Yulli,
      You can change the plan while keeping the same Korean phone number after the quarantine 🙂
      But you may need to visit a customer center near Hongik University Station.
      If you need the directions to the office, please feel free to contact our Customer Center.

      Thank you!

      Reply

  84. What about e-SIM, is that not an easier alternative? A bit surprised it was not mentioned in the post 🙂 If they are a viable option, do they work with only data or calls/SMS too? Which would you recommend? Thanks! 🙂

    Reply

    1. Hi Marcus,

      Unfortunately, we do not have e-SIM option on sale as of now and it’s not in common use in Korea yet.

      Thank you.

      Reply

    1. Hi Alicia,

      It depends on which sim card package you use but you can use non-carrier free wifi networks provided by offices/public organizations or in certain places such as Starbucks when it’s available.

      Thank you.

      Reply

  86. Hello trazy,
    My husband and I just moved to Korea, we will be here around 1-2 years. We usually use 1-3G of data per month. we wont use korean number for calling or text much. what package do you recommend us to get? we spent about $35 per month for 2 in the states. we are willing to spend about the same amount if possible for phone plan in Korea. Thank you.

    Reply

    1. Hi Julia,

      Using a monthly plan which costs 8,800won per month/per person is recommended as it allows you to use 2.4GB data at 4G speed and make 100 minutes of voice calls for a month.
      You can check more details in this link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/monthly-plan-korea-sim-card

      If you don’t have all the required documents to use the monthly plan yet, a 90-day sim card with a 40,000won balance can be your alternative option.
      A specific amount will be deducted from the charged balance when you use the data or make voice calls/SMS. If you need, you can top up the balance.
      You can check the details of it from this link: https://www.trazy.com/experience/detail/prepaid-data-sim-card-long-term

      We hope this helps.

      Thank you.

      Reply

  87. Hi there, I am travelling to Korea as I will be working for a year. I have an iphone that is unlocked and want a sim card that is great for internet usage and calls and text. But is available to use whatsapp, Facetime or skype calls back home in the UK. Please recommend the best option for me.

    Kind regards,
    Faheemah

    Reply

    1. Hi,

      There are numerous sim card packages available to purchase on Trazy.
      As each package has different conditions, we highly recommend you to check each detail to find what’s best for you 🙂

      As long as you have enough data left, MVoIP calls via Facetime, Skype, LINE, Kakao, Whatsapp or Messenger are supported.

      We hope this information helps.
      Thank you!

      Reply

      1. Hi, I ordered one of your 30 day Sim cards before relocating to Seoul from the UK. It proved to be very useful during the airport immigration process and I’m quite pleased I did this. However, I’d like to transfer to SKT directly and have a monthly post-paid contract. Can you please advise if this is possible and how to go about it? I’ll be in Korea for at least two years so want to regularise the sim without losing the number. Thank you

        Reply

  88. I want to block my sktelecom sim card because i am getting unusua call and messages ..how can i block it please help me

    Reply

  89. I want to top up and recharge my LTE USIM Card internet…i want unlimited internet 20G.B where can i buy it for online..i am at the sea

    Reply

  90. Hi, I’m an international student who is looking for a sim card from one of the following carriers: SK Telecom, KT or LG U+. Could you help recommend me one?

    Reply

    1. Hi, James. It would really depend on your needs. All 3 carriers are great; it’s a matter of the type of things you need when purchasing a sim card.

      Reply

  92. I am not happy.

    I am writing this Friday evening. I have the sim in my phone but it won’t work until sometime Monday because there is NO WEEKED SUPPORT AFTER 6 P.M. Friday. This should have explained before the purchase.

    I purchased,
    Korea 4G/LTE SIM Card: Data+Voice+SMS (3~90 days) – Receive by Postal Parcel (Korea Only) 30-day Unlimited Data/Voice/SMS

    Because of Covid, the airport pickup is not available so I decided to mail the sim to where I will be staying.
    Well, to activate the sim, you have to send in 3 photos:
    1) Closeup of your passport page where there is your name and your picture.
    2) A selfie with your passport page where there is your name and your picture.
    3) This is what kills me… the picture of the sim card they just sent you!!!

    You need to send these 3 photos to one of the two popular messenger apps in Korea and Line and KakaoTalk to activate so you can use the phone. Well, they only answer the messenger app from Monday to Friday 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. (They also take lunch break from noon to 1 P.M.!!!)

    So, don’t plan on using the phone with this sim if you in a hurry. As for me, I paid for but can’t use 3-days because this ‘activation’ required hidden rule. (I am in Korea for 28 days. So any days I can’t use in the beginning is not recoverable.)
    I would have paid small extra to picked up a sim at the airport from another vendor if I knew this before hand.

    A better practice would have been to asked for photos 1 and 2 before sending me the sim. That way, they could have sent me the ready to activate sim.

    I doubt I will ever use their service in future.

    Reply

    1. We apologize that you experienced such inconvenience.
      We’ll deliver your issue to the team and make sure it doesn’t happen again in the future.

      Reply

  93. I will be heading to South Korea soon and will be living in country for at least one year….what do you recommend as the best option for a SIM card in this instance? I have an Apple XR and it is unlocked.

    Reply

  94. I’m planning on getting the Korea 4G/LTE Prepaid SIM Card (90 days) and I know I have to pick it up from Hongik University Station and, I know the answer will probably be no but, I was wondering if it were possible to ship it to my home address in USA instead? I’m assuming no which, leads to my next question. I would get the internationally shipped SIM card instead, but I’ll be staying 90 days and was wondering what the process to extend the SIM card is and if there are any additional fees, and if so how much are they.

    Thank you so much!

    Reply

  95. Hi,

    If I purchase one of these sim cards, will I be able to get a Korean phone number from it immediately? So I can sort out Covid related things such as the QR code and/or reserving an arrival test.

    Reply

  96. Hi I’m studying abroad in Korea and will be there for about 4-5 months. Do you have a long term SIM card that includes phone calls and texting?

    Reply

  97. I’m studying abroad in Korea and will be there for about 4-5 months. Do you have a long term SIM card that includes phone calls and texting?

    Reply

  98. Hi, I’m not sure I understand what USAGE FEE DEDUCTION EACH DAY means for the 30 day SIM card contracts. Can you please clarify what it means?

    Reply

  99. Hi I am in Korea for a few months and I have an SK prepaid phone / sim card that I just need to recharge. I just want the bare minimum for both data and calls/texts as I just need a korean phone number (I already have an international plan on my regular phone). I really only need like 20 minutes of calls, 10 texts and 200mb per month, is the very first option you listed (Medium Plan (30 Days): Data (1GB of 4G/LTE Data), Voice & SMS (Included credits: KRW 3,000)) the best one for me or is there a better option for the small amount that I need? How much would this be and can I go to any SK store to do the recharge? Thank you in advance!

    Reply

    2. There are some sim cards that you can pick up in Busan! You can check the pick-up locations on the product page. 🙂

      Reply

  101. Hi Trazy Team,
    I will stay for 45 days in South Korea and I’m planning to have a SIM Card with unlimited data + calls + sms. Which one do you recommend me:
    1. Unlimited Data + Voice Call + SMS (30 days)
    2. Unlimited Data + Voice call + SMS (up to 30 days) – at Incheon airport
    3. Prepaid SIM Card: Data + Voice + SMS (90 days)
    Are options 1 & 2 extendables? If yes, where and how to proceed?
    Are options 1 & 3 can be picked up at the airport? Arriving on a Friday late evening and Hongik University Station Office and Myeongdong Station only open from Monday to Friday.
    Thank you for your reply!

    Reply

  102. Hi,

    I will be coming to Korea (again) soon. I initially intended to buy a prepaid SIM card. My wife will come a bit later. The big difference is that I will be there as a tourist and will not stay, will my wife will come with a 3 years F4-11 visa.

    For example if I come to Korea for a few days in June; take one of your reserved SIM card at Incheon airport and leave Korea to come back 1 week later, what happens to the SIM card? Will it be valid within the validity period 30/90/120 days or will it be voided due to my temporary departure, even if I come back.

    Sorry for the long explanation below; but this will affect the type of card I buy from your website.
    Thank you and Best Regards,
    Franck

    Reply

  103. having an issue with wife’s phone. We converted her T-mobile service to esimm prior to traveling to korea and she got a KT physical simm but it won’t work. I can find no way to show which Samsung galaxy note20’s will work on which networks. it’d be lovely if i could display my phone and show which korea networks on which bands(lte/5g/etc) would work is there such a thing? on the link you provided regarding phones it doesn’t list any phones released in the past 5 years really.

    Reply

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