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Which network provider should you choose for your South Korea trip, and how do you pick the right SIM card? Save these handy tips for purchasing a Korean SIM card by reading this article!
South Korea attracts millions of visitors annually with its stunning landscapes, diverse cuisine, and vibrant culture. When traveling to South Korea, having a travel SIM card is essential. It’s a crucial tool that helps tourists maximize their trip by quickly accessing information about attractions, dining spots, and special promotions.
Let’s explore how to choose and purchase a Korean SIM card quickly and conveniently with Mytour Vietnam!
Reliable Providers of Korean Travel SIM Cards
South Korea is renowned for its advanced telecommunications infrastructure, with the three major providers offering travel SIMs being SK Telecom, KT Corporation, and LG U+. Each provider has unique strengths and tailored plans to suit different user needs.
1. SK Telecom - The Largest Network Provider in South Korea
SK Telecom (T World) is South Korea's largest network provider, known for its extensive coverage and high-quality service. SK Telecom offers three affordable travel SIM packages:
- Korea SIM Gold: Provides unlimited data starting at $4.5 for 1 day up to $49.9 for 30 days.
- Korea SIM Purple: Data-only plan without a phone number, priced from $91.6 for 60 days to $274.8 for 180 days.
- Korea eSIM Red: Similar to SIM Gold but in eSIM format, also starting at $91.6 for 60 days.
2. KT - High-Speed 5G Network
KT is the second-largest provider, renowned for its robust 5G infrastructure. Their travel SIM, Korea SIM Blue Plus, is available at many airports, with prices ranging from $22.9 for 5 days to $109.9 for 60 days, all offering unlimited data and domestic calls.
3. LG U+ - A Cost-Effective Choice
Ranking third in market share, LG U+ offers the Korea Blue Sky SIM and Korea eSIM Sky, boasting the fastest 4G/LTE upload speeds. Their SIM packages are reasonably priced, with a 5-day plan costing around $17 and a 30-day plan priced at approximately $45. However, LG U+ SIMs can only be purchased online or at airports, which may inconvenience some travelers.
Overall, SK Telecom stands out for its extensive coverage and affordable short-term SIM plans. On the other hand, LG U+ excels in pricing but has a more complicated purchasing process.
Where to Buy a Korean Travel SIM Card?
Travelers can purchase a Korean travel SIM either in South Korea or in advance in Vietnam, depending on their needs and personal circumstances.
1. Buying a Travel SIM in South Korea
Korean SIM cards come in two main types: data-only SIMs and SIMs with call functionality. You can choose the one that best suits your needs. Popular purchase locations include airports and convenience stores.
- Airport: At Incheon Airport, you’ll find KT SIM counters in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with flexible operating hours. Staff members usually speak English well, making the purchase and activation process straightforward. You’ll need to present your passport and follow the staff’s instructions. For call-enabled SIMs, the process is slightly more complex, requiring you to input information via a link and enter a SIM password to activate it.
- Convenience Stores: Purchasing SIMs at stores like 7/11 is another option. However, the main challenge is that most staff don’t speak English, which can be difficult if you don’t know Korean.
2. Buying a Korean SIM in Vietnam
Another convenient option is purchasing a travel SIM in Vietnam. Local providers collaborate with South Korea’s SKT to offer affordable SIM packages. Buying a SIM in Vietnam not only saves costs but also ensures the security of your personal information. You can order SIMs online via Mytour without needing to present a passport, saving time upon arrival in South Korea.
Best-Selling Korean SIM Products on Mytour
Mytour is one of the most reliable platforms for travelers to easily find and purchase Korean travel SIMs with attractive offers. Explore these diverse SIM packages to choose the perfect connectivity solution for your journey through the Land of the Morning Calm!
1. SKT 4G SIM for South Korea
The SKT 4G SIM offers a convenient and comprehensive connectivity solution for your travels in South Korea.
Product Details of SKT 4G SIM for South Korea:
- Validity: Options range from 1 to 30 days.
- Internet Speed: High-speed 4G/LTE.
- Services Included: Data and call-enabled SIM (with optional top-ups), and 4G SIM without call or messaging capabilities.
- Data Allowance: 1GB/day at 4G speeds (up to 150Mbps) + unlimited data at 5Mbps.
- SIM Size: Available in Nano, Micro, and Standard sizes, compatible with most devices.
- Hotspot Support: Can be used as a mobile hotspot.
Pickup Locations for SKT 4G SIM in South Korea:
Upon arrival at airports and seaports in South Korea, you can easily collect your SIM at SK Roaming Centers by presenting your voucher and passport.
Seoul:
- Incheon Airport T1: 1st Floor, between Exit 9 and Exit 10. Operating hours: 06:00-22:00.
- Incheon Airport T2: 1st Floor, between Exit 2 and Exit 3. Open 24/7.
- Gimpo Airport: 1st Floor, Exit 1. Operating hours: 06:30-23:00.
Busan:
- Gimhae Airport: 1st Floor, Gate 3. Operating hours: 06:00-22:00.
- Busan Harbor: 2nd Floor, International Port. Operating hours: 06:30-19:30.
Daegu: Daegu Airport: 1st Floor, near Gate 1. Operating hours: 06:00-22:00.
Jeju: Jeju Airport: 1st Floor, Exit 5. Operating hours: 09:00-19:00.
2. Unlimited Data 4G SIM for South Korea + T Money Card (LG U+)
The unlimited data 4G SIM for South Korea is an ideal choice for international travelers, offering stable and unrestricted internet access nationwide. Additionally, once the SIM is installed, it can also function as a T-Money card for public transportation payments (additional charges apply).
Product Details of Unlimited Data 4G SIM for South Korea + T Money Card (LG U+):
- Validity: 3-60 days, depending on the plan you choose.
- Internet Speed: 4G/LTE with speeds of 5mbps if exceeding 3GB daily.
- Service Type: Unlimited data, with optional call and messaging support (requires additional top-up).
- Network Support: LG U+, with nationwide coverage.
- SIM Size: Multiple options – Mini, Micro, Nano.
- Hotspot Support: Can be used to share the network with other devices.
Pickup Locations for Unlimited Data 4G SIM + T Money Card (LG U+):
You’ll need to present your voucher, passport, and boarding pass to collect the SIM.
Seoul - Incheon International Airport
- Terminal 1: LG U+ counters near Gate A (06:00 - 22:00) or Gate F (24 hours).
- Terminal 2: LG U+ counters between Gate 4 and 5 (06:00 - 22:00) and between Gate 6 and 7 (00:00 - 23:59).
- Supported Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese.
Gimpo International Airport
- Location: LG U+ counter near Gate 1, operating from 06:30 - 23:00.
- Note: Cash payments are not accepted at this counter.
Busan - Gimhae International Airport
- Location: LG U+ counter between Gate 2 and 3, operating from 06:00 - 22:00.
- Supported Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese.
3. KT Prepaid 4G SIM for South Korea
KT Olleh’s prepaid 4G SIM is an excellent choice for travelers to South Korea who need unlimited internet access along with domestic calls and messaging. The SIM supports robust 4G/LTE speeds, ensuring seamless connectivity wherever you go.
Product Details of KT Prepaid 4G SIM for South Korea:
- Validity: 3 to 30 days
- Internet Speed: 4G/LTE
- Data: Unlimited
- Service Type: Internet-only or includes domestic calls and messaging
- Coverage: Nationwide
- SIM Size: Micro, Nano, Standard
- Hotspot Support: Yes, ideal for users needing to share data with other devices
Pickup Locations for KT Prepaid 4G SIM in South Korea:
When collecting your SIM, please bring your voucher and a photo ID for quick processing.
Incheon Airport, Seoul
- Terminal 1: Arrival Hall, 1st Floor, near Gate A (06:00 - 22:00) and Gate F (24/7)
- Terminal 2: 1st Floor, Gate 4-5, KT Roaming Center, open 24 hours daily
Gimpo International Airport, Seoul: 1st Floor, Gate 1 at KT Roaming Center (06:30 - 23:00)
Gimhae International Airport, Busan: 1st Floor, Gate 3 at KT Roaming Center (06:00 - 22:00)
Busan Port: 2nd Floor, Gate 4 at KT Roaming Center. Opening hours: Monday - Friday (10:30 - 19:30) and Saturday - Sunday (06:30 - 19:30)
4. 4G SIM for South Korea (Pickup at SGN Airport)
Booking and receiving your Korean travel SIM at Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) is a convenient option for those who want to stay connected immediately after landing in South Korea without spending time on additional procedures.
Product Information for 4G SIM in South Korea (Pickup at SGN Airport):
- Usage Duration: 5 to 15 days
- Internet Speed: 4G
- Service: Internet Only
- Coverage Area: Nationwide in South Korea
- SIM Size: Nano, Micro, Mini (compatible with most phone models)
Pickup Location for 4G SIM in South Korea (Pickup at SGN Airport):
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
- Mobifone Counter, International Arrival Hall
- Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday, 07:30 - 23:00
(*) Note: To ensure SIM availability for same-day bookings, please place your order at least 3 hours before the expected pickup time. Upon pickup, present your booking voucher to complete the process.
Traveling to South Korea? An eSIM is a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards, allowing travelers to connect to the internet instantly without needing to insert a SIM card. Simply scan a QR code to activate it. However, before purchasing an eSIM, make sure your phone supports eSIM technology.
Here are some popular South Korea eSIM options available on Mytour that you can book and activate immediately via QR code, saving you time.
5. KT's Unlimited Data eSIM for South Korea (QR Code Sent via Email)
KT Telecom's eSIM is the perfect solution for those who need continuous connectivity with unlimited data in South Korea. This eSIM is ideal for users who require high data usage and want to receive local calls and messages within South Korea.
Product Details for KT's Unlimited Data eSIM for South Korea (QR Code Sent via Email):
- Usage Duration: 3-30 days
- Internet Speed: 4G LTE
- Service: Unlimited data + Incoming calls and messages
- Coverage Area: Nationwide in South Korea
- Hotspot Sharing: Yes, supports sharing with other devices
- Provider: KT Telecom
6. South Korea 4G eSIM (Instant Activation via QR Code)
If you're looking for a cost-effective way to stay connected to the internet, the South Korea 4G eSIM is an excellent choice. Enjoy fast and flexible internet access for durations ranging from 1 to 30 days, depending on your selected plan.
Product Details for South Korea 4G eSIM (Instant Activation via QR Code):
- Usage Duration: 1-30 days
- Internet Speed: 4G
- Service: Internet Only
- Coverage Area: South Korea
- Data Limit: Fair usage policy applies; speed reduces to 128 kbps after exceeding the limit
- Hotspot Sharing: Supported
- Provider: SK Telecom / KT Telecom
7. South Korea High-Speed 4G eSIM (Instant QR Code Delivery)
If you need reliable internet access for various purposes during your stay in South Korea, the high-speed 4G eSIM is a must-have. With instant activation via QR code, this eSIM ensures you can enjoy fast internet with ample data capacity.
Product Details for South Korea High-Speed 4G eSIM (Instant QR Code Delivery):
- Usage Duration: 1-30 days
- Internet Speed: 4G
- Service: Internet Only
- Coverage Area: Nationwide in South Korea
- Data Limit: Fair usage policy applies; speed reduces to 128 kbps after exceeding the limit
- Provider: SK Telecom / KT Telecom
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing and Activating South Korea Data SIM
If you're unsure about how to set up and use a data SIM while traveling in South Korea, check out the detailed guide below!
1. Guide to Installing South Korea Travel SIM - Physical SIM
Installing a physical South Korea travel SIM is similar to setting up regular SIM cards in Vietnam. First, ensure the SIM size matches your device: mini, micro, or nano, then remove the plastic frame to fit the SIM tray. After inserting the SIM, enable mobile data to automatically activate the network.
How to Enable Mobile Data on iOS (iPhone):
- Step 1: Open Settings
- Step 2: Select Cellular
- Step 3: Toggle the Mobile Data switch to the right to enable it
- If the network isn't activated, enable Data Roaming as well
How to Enable Mobile Data on Android:
- Step 1: Open Settings
- Step 2: Select SIM Management
- Step 3: Choose the newly inserted SIM (SIM 1 or SIM 2)
- Step 4: Tap on Network Mode
- Step 5: Select LTE/4G/5G to complete the setup
2. Guide to Activating South Korea eSIM
With an eSIM, a QR code will be sent to your email. Simply scan the code to activate it.
For iOS (iPhone):
- Step 1: Go to Settings, then select Cellular
- Step 2: Tap Add eSIM
- Step 3: Scan the QR code or choose Transfer from Nearby iPhone if available
- Step 4: After scanning, tap Add Cellular Plan
For Android:
- Step 1: Open Settings, then select Connections
- Step 2: Choose SIM Manager and tap Add eSIM
- Step 3: Scan the provider's QR code and enter the activation code
(*) Note: After inserting or activating the eSIM, enable mobile data upon arrival in South Korea. If the SIM doesn't connect automatically, turn on Data Roaming or adjust the APN (Access Point Name) as per the carrier's instructions.
Important Tips for Purchasing and Using South Korea Travel SIMs
When purchasing and using a South Korea travel SIM, there are several key points to keep in mind to ensure a stable connection and cost savings throughout your journey:
- Purchase SIM in Vietnam: For convenience during activation, it's advisable to buy the SIM in Vietnam rather than in South Korea, as prices in Vietnam are often significantly lower.
- Choose the right plan and duration: Determine your usage needs in advance, including the length of your stay and the required data volume, to select the appropriate SIM and plan, avoiding unnecessary expenses.
- Prepare a backup charger: Frequent use of 4G/5G mobile data can drain your battery quickly, especially on Android devices, so it's wise to carry a backup charger.
- Select a reputable provider: Opt for a SIM from trusted providers with good reviews, such as Mytour, to avoid potential issues during use.
In your journey to explore the Land of the Morning Calm, a South Korea travel SIM is an indispensable companion. Searching for interesting destinations, making reservations, connecting with friends and family, and updating social media with your photos becomes incredibly easy with a 4G SIM. A travel SIM not only offers convenience but also enhances your journey, providing opportunities for full exploration and experience.
Travel through South Korea with the confidence of a local without worries. Check out detailed reviews on the Mytour Blog: Namsan Tower, A Hot Spot for Scenic Views & Check-ins in Seoul, 20 Best Spots for Autumn Leaves in South Korea, 15 Nighttime Travel Tips for Seoul for Independent Travelers, 18 Best Shopping Destinations in Seoul, What is Mytour Vietnam? How to Order & Hunt for Deals on Mytour Vietnam,...
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