Staying Connected in Korea
Korea has the fastest internet in the world, and staying connected is essential for navigation, translation, and communication. Here are your best options.
Option 1: Korean SIM Card
A local SIM card gives you a Korean phone number and high-speed data.
Where to Buy
- Incheon Airport: KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+ booths in arrivals (open until late)
- Online pre-order: Klook or KKday β pick up at airport
- City shops: Any phone carrier store in Seoul
Popular Plans
| Provider | Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| KT (olleh) | Unlimited (5GB full speed) | 5 days | β©22,000 |
| SK Telecom | Unlimited (3GB full speed) | 5 days | β©20,000 |
| LG U+ | Unlimited (5GB full speed) | 10 days | β©33,000 |
Note: "Unlimited" plans throttle speed after the full-speed allowance (typically to 3 Mbps), which is still fine for maps and messaging.
Option 2: eSIM (No Physical Card Needed)
If your phone supports eSIM (iPhone XR and later, most recent Android phones), this is the most convenient option.
Top eSIM Providers
- Airalo: Korea plans from $5/1GB. Easy app setup. Popular with travelers worldwide.
- Ubigi: Data-only eSIM, good coverage on KT network.
- KT eSIM: Available on the KT Roaming website. Premium Korean network.
Pros
- Activate instantly β no waiting in line at the airport
- Keep your home SIM active for calls/texts
- Easy to top up if you need more data
Cons
- No Korean phone number (some Korean apps require one)
- Slightly more expensive per GB than physical SIMs
Option 3: Portable WiFi (Pocket WiFi)
A small device that creates a WiFi hotspot β perfect for groups traveling together.
Where to Rent
- Incheon Airport: WiFi Dosirak, KT WiFi booths (pick up & return at airport)
- Online: Klook, KKday, or WiFi Dosirak website
Cost
- β©3,000ββ©5,000 per day (unlimited data)
- Cheaper per person when sharing with travel companions
Pros
- Connect multiple devices (usually 5β10)
- Truly unlimited data at full speed
- No SIM swapping needed
Cons
- Need to carry an extra device and keep it charged
- Must return it before your flight
Free WiFi in Seoul
Seoul has extensive free WiFi coverage:
- Seoul Free WiFi: Available in all subway stations, many buses, and public areas
- Cafes: Nearly every cafe offers free WiFi (ask for the password)
- Convenience stores: GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven have free WiFi
However, free WiFi alone isn't enough for navigation while walking around β you'll want your own data connection.
Our Recommendation
| Traveler Type | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Solo traveler (tech-savvy) | eSIM | Instant setup, no extra devices |
| Solo traveler (simple) | Airport SIM card | Staff helps with setup |
| Couple or group | Pocket WiFi | Share one device, save money |
| Short trip (1β2 days) | eSIM (Airalo 1GB) | Cheapest option |
