If you are traveling to Korea anytime soon, you should be looking into a Korean sim card or a portable WiFi router solution (MiFi). They’re the best options for getting online on the go while you explore Korea so that you can keep in touch with family and friends, share your journey on social media, and stay in touch with the office.
We’ve gone through the long list of service providers to find the best deals, connections, and services for your Korean Internet needs. We will also show you the pros and cons of Korean sim cards and portable WiFi routers, allowing you to decide which is best for your situation and travel style. Both have distinct advantages, which you can see in the summary in the next section.
Why Get A Korean Sim Card Or Portable WiFi Router?
Korea, the home of Samsung and LG, is a high-tech country that makes full use modern technology to make people’s lives easier. From QR code menus, mobile-based hotel keys, and app-based payment systems prevalent throughout the country, there are so many ways to use your phone as you travel in Korea.
Of course, these modern conveniences all require a connection to the Internet – something a lot of travelers lose once they leave their home country and switch their phones to airplane mode.
Sometimes you can get a good international deal through your cellular service provider, but most people find that the best option a trip to Korea longer than a few days is to get a Korean sim card or portable WiFi router.
Mobile data speeds are the fastest in the world, reaching over 93 Mbps (the USA has around 43 Mbps), and surfing the Internet on your phone or mobile device is a real pleasure with download and streaming speeds both amazing. These two options will both give you access to the internet in most places in Korea, a country that has the world’s best mobile internet coverage with more than 97% of the country able to access 4G services.
Korean Sim Cards Vs. Portable WiFi Routers
What’s the difference between getting a Korean sim card vs. a portable WiFi router? They both offer access to high speed Korean mobile networks with reliable service and great coverage. However, Korean sim cards and portable WiFi routers have a few unique differences that can make one a must-buy over the other.
The table below is a summary of the main benefits of Korean sim cards vs. portable WiFi routers to show you the main differences.
Korean Sim Card | Korean Portable WiFi Router |
---|---|
Korean phone number | No Korean phone number |
Secure cellular connection | Secure connection via WiFi |
Connects 1 device | Connects multiple devices |
High speed 4g service | High speed 4g service |
Requires unlocked phone | Works with locked or unlocked phones |
Fits in your phone | External device to carry with you |
Fixed pre-paid cost | Flexible costs. |
If you want to know the best mobile internet option in Korea, take a look at this table and see which features apply to your travel needs.
Requirement | Best Option |
---|---|
Lower short-term cost | Portable WiFi Router |
Flexible usage policy | Portable WiFi Router |
Connect multiple devices | Portable WiFi Router |
Korean phone number | Korean Sim Card |
Use Korean apps | Korean Sim Card |
Make bookings online in Korea | Korean Sim Card |
High speed Internet access | Both |
Secure mobile connection | Both |
The benefits and advantages of Korean sim cards and portable WiFi routers will be discussed in more depth later in this article. Both are great options to keep you connected in Korea and will offer you secure, high-speed mobile Internet access.
Whether you prefer a Korean sim card or portable WiFi router, don’t forget that you’ll need to bring a travel adapter with you when you travel to Korea. Korea uses Type F travel plug adapters, which are the same 2-pin plugs used in Europe. A European Type F travel adapter will work in Korea perfectly fine. You can pick up a travel adapter for Korea right here.
Best Of Korea Sim & WiFi Recommendations
If you already know whether a Korean sim card or portable WiFi router will be best for you and just want to go and buy one, here are our top recommendations for you. These are based on personal experiences, online reviews, and balancing price, ease of use, and service quality.
The biggest benefit with these two options is that they can be collected at Incheon Airport (24 hours a day) so you can connect to the world the moment you arrive in Korea. These Korean sim cards and portable WiFi routers are provided by Klook, one of the best travel and services companies operating in Korea.
Other great options for connecting to the Internet in Korea can be found from Trazy, Viator, and Get Your Guide.
Korean Sim Cards: Essential Info
Korean sim cards are the best option to use your phone to its fullest when traveling in Korea. This will give you the same services and functionality as if you were in your own country and allow you to make and receive calls, send text messages, and use data-based services such as surfing the Internet, streaming, and updating social media.
If you need to have a connection to the world 24/7 or want to share updates with friends and family as you travel, a Korean sim card is probably the best option for you.
In order to use a Korean sim card, you should make sure that your phone meets the following requirements:
- Your phone is a WCDMA device (3G and newer).
- Your phone is unlocked and can accept a new sim card.
- You haven’t used another Korean sim card recently.
- You can use a normal | nano | micro sim card.
As long as your phone is unlocked and at least 3G compatible, it should be fine to use a Korean sim card in your phone when you travel to Korea. Not sure if your phone is unlocked? Contact your cellular company or visit this website to check.
If you’ve never used your phone in another country, it might be worth contacting the Korean sim card vendor to check compatibility for your phone’s model and IMEI number.
Requirements To Buy A Korean Sim Card
Here are some of the most common requirements to buy a Korean sim card online or in Korea. If you buy the sim card online (recommended), there may be additional requirements when you collect and activate the sim card in Korea.
- Passport
- Contact details
- Address (in Korea)
- IMEI number of your phone.
Korean phone accounts are used as a form of identity in Korea and, even if you’re using it as a tourist, it is still necessary to provide identification to use the sim card.
Pre-ordering and collecting a Korean sim card at Incheon Airport is the best option for travelers for two main reasons. Firstly, travelers arriving at Incheon Airport will have their passport with them. Secondly, staff at Incheon Airport’s collection desks are used to dealing with travelers in English and can set up and check the sim card immediately.
Advantages Of Korean Sim Cards
There are several reasons why you might want to purchase a Korean sim card when you travel to Korea. The benefits of having a Korean phone number have increased in recent years as mobile services grow and travel restrictions have required contact numbers when traveling. Below is a summary of the key advantages of getting a Korean sim card.
Korean Phone Number
The biggest advantage of having a sim card is the ability to get a Korean phone number, which opens up a world of apps and services that aren’t available to other travelers. The biggest uses of a Korean phone number are for mobile apps such as Coupang Eats (food delivery) and Kakao Taxi (taxi service), as well as the ability to make online bookings and reservations in Korea.
If you want to book tickets for a concert or attractions like the Haeundae Sky Capsule, you need a Korean phone number to complete the reservation. When you buy a Korean sim card, make sure that the sim comes with a phone number – some data-only cards don’t.
Always Connected
Korea’s network coverage is amazing and you’ll almost never find yourself without an internet connection, even if you’re climbing up a mountain or walking in the countryside. Having a Korean sim card gives you full access to Korea’s wide phone network.
Less To Carry
A sim card easily slips into your phone and weighs almost nothing. Portable WiFi routers aren’t heavy, and most can be tucked into a bag or purse, but they do need to be carried as well as your phone.
Disadvantages Of Korean Sim Cards
Although sim cards are the most convenient and useful option when traveling in Korea, they do also have some downsides when compared to Portable WiFi routers. Here are a few of the most common problems with sim cards, including one that might surprise you.
Fixed Usage Period
When you order a Korean sim card, they’re typically fixed for a certain amount of time. For example, 1 day cards, 3 day cards, 5 day cards, etc. This is fine if you’re traveling in Korea for a time that matches those fixed periods, but it can often leave you paying more if you’re traveling outside those times.
Travelers who need a sim card for 8 days may find themselves having to choose between a 7 day card and a 10 day card. Pay more for 8 days of coverage, or lose a day and go for the 7 day card. Portable WiFi routers are charged per day, so you always pay for what you use.
Fortunately, sim cards can be extended beyond their original time limit by contacting the service provider, which is a good option if you plan to stay in Korea for a reasonably long amount of time.
Limited To 90 Days
Travelers can only use Korean sim cards for a maximum of 90 days. This won’t be an issue for most travelers who visit for a week or two, but could be a problem for students studying for 3 to 4 months at a time. As mentioned, you can extend your Korean sim card from its original time limit, but only to a maximum of 90 days. It can only be extended beyond this if you have an Alien Registration Card (for long term residents).
Hard To Use Another Sim
Again, this isn’t a problem most travelers will face, but it’s something to consider if you’re planning to visit Korea often or stay in the country. Once you’ve signed up for a sim card, you’re tied to that company and sim and you might be blocked from signing up for another sim soon after. This is mostly due to Korean security laws.
Camera Shutter Noise
In Korea, all phones must make a shutter sound when using the camera, including screen shots. This is due to laws to prevent unwanted photography and people taking secret pictures with their phone. When you use a Korean sim card, your phone settings will automatically be changed to turn on the camera shutter sound. You can’t change this while you’re using the sim card. Once you leave Korea and change your sim, the camera sound will go back to normal.
Always Read The Fine Print
When buying a Korean sim card online, be sure to check whether or not the sim card will do everything you want it to. Some data-only sim cards give you just that – data. They won’t provide a Korean phone number, which is one of the main reasons for getting a sim card in the first place.
Also check whether or not the sim comes with any credit, or if this needs to be purchase on top of the cost of the sim. Are there additional costs for going over your data limit or daily limits on how much you can use?
The sim cards recommended below are all traveler-friendly and come with a Korean phone, all-inclusive data services, and are from reputable companies that have provided safe and reliable phone services in Korea for years.
What About Korean E-Sims?
An alternative type of sim is the eSim – an electronic sim card that is stored on your phone like an app and doesn’t involve changing your sim card. You can download these to your phone and switch between your regular and Korean phone services. Although these have been popular in other countries for a few years, Korea only started to embrace them since summer 2022 (due to pushback from Korean phone companies).
Korean eSims can be a convenient option for travelers with newer models, but if your phone is more than a few years old, it might not be compatible. Also, some eSims don’t come with a Korean phone number, negating one of the big advantages of getting a Korean sim card.
You can buy Korean eSims online from Klook and other companies operating in Korea.
Where To Buy Korean Sim Cards
There are dozens of places to buy Korean sim cards online and offline, but not all of them are reputable, well priced, or convenient. To save you the hassle of finding a good quality sim card that you can reliably use in Korea, Best of Korea has selected some of the best sim card providers for you.
This section will include details about recommended online companies offering Korean sim cards, as well as information about the various price plans and sim card lengths.
It’s best to book online before you travel to Korea. These are usually cheaper and more convenient that trying to find one when you arrive. That’s why all of these options are ones you can buy online before you travel. Getting a sim card in Korea on arrival at the airport is also possible.
Korean Sim Cards From Klook
Klook offers sim cards from KT, one of the big 3 phone companies in Korea. These are one of the most popular options for travelers to Korea and their sim card service has a rating of 4.8/5 for customer satisfaction and over 8,800 reviews for their main sim cards.
Here’s a summary of the key information about this Korean sim card from Klook.
Sim Details | Information |
---|---|
Sim Type | Normal | Nano | Micro Sim |
Service Plan | Data or Data + Calls & Texts (top up needed)* |
Data Allowance | Unlimited |
Internet Speed | 4G / LTE |
Hotspot Sharing | Yes |
Below is a list of prices for the various sim plans on offer. The time runs from the moment you activate until that many days later. When you collect the sim card at the airport, the staff at the help desk will help you install it and check the sim card to make sure it’s working.
Sim Plan | Cost (KRW) |
---|---|
1 Day | 5,900 |
5 Days | 24,800 (4,960 p/d) |
10 Days | 34,700 (3,470 p/d) |
20 Days | 60,500 (3,025 p/d) |
30 Days | 64,400 (2,147 p/d)* |
*Staying more than 30 days? You can extend your sim card for another 30 days with a 50% discount as long as you register on the KT renewal site and extend your contract before your current 30 day plan expires. Extensions of 5 & 10 days are also possible.
These sim cards can be collected at Incheon Airport in either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 and the collection desks are open 24 hours a day.
Here are the details about where to collect the Klook sim cards.
Pick-up Location | Details |
---|---|
Terminal 1 | 1/F Gate 10-11, KT Roaming Center, open 24 hours, daily |
Terminal 2 | 1/F Gate 2-3, KT Roaming Center, 24 hours, daily |
When you collect the sim cards, show your mobile voucher or printed voucher at the collection desk along with your ID (passport) and complete the short application form.
Korean Sim Cards From Trazy
Trazy also offers sim cards from KT, one of the big 3 phone companies in Korea. This service also has a rating of 4.8/5 and more than 750 reviews for the sim card. Trazy is a Korea-based travel company and tour operator that has some great prices for locals services and provides the widest selection of tours in Korea.
Here’s a summary of the key information about this Korean sim card from Trazy.
Sim Details | Information |
---|---|
Sim Type | Normal | Nano | Micro Sim |
Service Plan | Data or Data + Calls & Texts (top up needed)* |
Data Allowance | Unlimited |
Internet Speed | 4G / LTE |
Hotspot Sharing | Yes |
Below is a list of prices for the various sim plans on offer. The time runs from the moment you activate until that many days later. When you collect the sim card at the airport, the staff at the help desk will help you install it and check the sim card to make sure it’s working.
The 10 | 20 | 30 day plans from Trazy are all slightly cheaper than Klook. If you’re traveling in Korea for 10 days of more, this could be the best option for your mobile Internet needs.
Sim Plan | Cost (KRW) |
---|---|
1 Day | 5,900 |
5 Days | 24,800 (4,960 p/d) |
10 Days | 33,000 (3,300 p/d) |
20 Days | 54,500 (2,725 p/d) |
30 Days | 62,000 (2,067 p/d)* |
*Staying more than 30 days? You can extend your sim card for another 30 days with a 50% discount as long as you register on the KT renewal site and extend your contract before your current 30 day plan expires. Extensions of 5 & 10 days are also possible.
These sim cards can be collected at Incheon Airport in either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 and the collection desks are open 24 hours a day. There are also collection points in Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gimpo Airport and Busan Gimhae Airport. Most travelers arrive to Korea via Incheon Airport, but the extra locations makes this a practical option for travelers who want to pick up and activate a sim card after they arrive.
Here are the details about where to collect the Trazy sim cards.
Pick-up Location | Details |
---|---|
Incheon Airport Terminal 1 | 1/F Gate 10-11, KT Roaming Center, open 24 hours, daily |
Incheon Airport Terminal 2 | 1/F Gate 2-3, KT Roaming Center, 24 hours, daily |
Myeongdong Station | Link Korea Sim card office (1 min from Myeongdong Station, Exit 10) |
Hongik Uni. Station | Link Korea Sim card office (1 min from Hongik Uni. Station, Exit 2) |
Gimpo Airport | 1/F Gate 1, KT Roaming Center, 6:30am to 6:00pm, daily |
Busan Gimhae Airport | 1/F Gate 3, KT Roaming Center, 6:00am to 8:00pm, daily |
When you collect the sim cards, show your mobile voucher or printed voucher at the collection desk along with your ID (passport) and complete the short application form. The sim card will be activated immediately and the timer will start on your plan.
If you want to avoid starting the sim card as soon as you arrive, it’s recommended to collect it in Seoul instead.
Buying Korean Sim Cards In The USA
If you want to make sure a Korean sim card works in your phone before you travel to Korea, you could order a Korean sim card from Amazon. The benefit of ordering a sim card from the USA is that you can register and activate (with certain cards) your sim card before you travel. That means there are no complications when you arrive in Korea. To see what sim cards are available in the USA, click the link below.
However, there are some down sides to ordering a Korean sim card in the USA before you travel. As with any sim card you buy, you should check to make sure the sim card is compatible with your phone before you order it. Returns may not be possible once opened.
The total price of the sim card and phone services is likely to be higher than you pay when you buy online from a company operating in Korea like Klook or Trazy. Also be sure to check that all the services you want (Korean phone number, data, calls, etc.) are available.
Korean Portable WiFi Routers: Essential Info
Portable WiFi routers are a family and group-friendly option for connecting to the Internet when traveling in Korea. One mobile WiFi router can be used to connect multiple devices without the need for a sim card.
Portable WiFi routers connect to mobile services provided by Korea’s 3 phone networks and essentially work the same as a sim card without the need to plug it into your phone. You get the same secure connection and wide network coverage, too.
Portable WiFi routers can be purchased on a day-by-day basis, which is a big advantage over Korean sim cards which have fixed time limits. As long as you declare which days you’ll book the router from, you will pay the same daily fee.
If you want to hire the router for extra days, you can simply pay for the extra usage when you return the router. There may be a higher daily cost for using the router longer than originally declared.
Please note: Even if you only use a portable WiFi router for half a day, it will still count as a full day’s rental.
Requirements To Rent A Portable WiFi Router
To rent a Korean portable WiFi router, you will need to have a valid credit card. Here are details about credit card requirements.
- More than 3 months validity remaining
- Visa or Mastercard only
- Must use the same card to book and collect.
- Must be in the same name as the person booking and collecting
- Debit cards are not accepted.
Basically, make sure you book the portable WiFi router in your own name and with your own card. Bring that credit card with you when you travel to Korea and present it when you collect the router. Some conditions may be different depending on which company you rent your WiFi router with, but these are the most common rules.
The credit card will be used to secure the deposit on the router in case it gets lost or damaged. You will be charged any extra usage costs if you went over your agreed time limit when you return the router at the end of your journey.
Advantages of Portable WiFi Routers
There are several reasons why you might want to purchase a Korean portable WiFi router when you travel to Korea. The benefits of being able to connect multiple devices for one fixed cost and at a lower initial cost than a sim card makes it ideal for short-term travelers.
Can Share With Other People
Portable WiFi routers can connect up to 3 devices simultaneously, which is perfect for families or travelers with multiple electronic devices, such as a phone, tablet, and laptop. There is no restriction on which devices are connected, as long as there are only 3 at one time. You can connect mobile phones during the day as you travel, then tablets at night when you want to relax or work in the hotel.
Lower Daily Cost For Short-Term Travel
Portable WiFi routers are cheaper per day for short-term travel than sim cards. The daily cost of a portable WiFi router is around 3,300 KRW per day, whereas a 1 day sim card costs 5,900 KRW and 5 day sim cards are just under 5,000 KRW per day.
If you’re traveling in Korea for 10 days or less, a portable WiFi router will cost less than a sim card. When you consider that up to 3 people can connect their devices to one router, it’s even cheaper per person.
Easy To Extend Usage Time
The rental plans on portable WiFi routers are flexible so if you need to use it for longer than you expected, you can keep using it and pay for the extra rental time at the end. This is useful if you change flights, get delayed, or don’t want to commit to renting the router for a long period when you first arrive.
Disadvantages Of Portable WiFi Routers
Portable WiFi routers are cheaper and more flexible than Korean sim cards, but there are also some disadvantages of using these devices, such as additional weight and charging requirements for the extra device. You also won’t get a Korean number.
No Korean Phone Number
The biggest disadvantage of portable WiFi routers is that they don’t come with a Korean phone number. That means you can’t use features in some Korean apps, make online bookings within Korea, and can’t call or send texts. Of course, there are alternatives for calling, such as using messaging apps.
Requires Carrying & Charging An Additional Device
Portable WiFi routers aren’t that heavy, but they certainly add to the weight you need to carry each day if you want Internet access as you move around. They’re certainly heavier than sim cards. There’s also the need to charge them, as well as the other devices you want to connect them to. This isn’t a big issue as most good hotels in Seoul will provide plenty of sockets to charge your devices.
Remember, you’ll need a Type F plug adapter for Korea. Fortunately, some WiFi rental companies will include a charger for the router that can also be used for certain phone models, reducing the number of travel adaptors you need.
Everyone Using The Router Must Be Nearby
While connecting to 3 devices with a portable WiFi router is easy and provides a reliable Internet connection to those users, they will all need to be nearby. This isn’t a problem if one person is using the router for multiple devices, but can be an issue for families traveling in Korea who might split up and do different activities, such as exploring Lotte World Theme Park or walking around Nami Island.
Where To Rent Korean Portable WiFi Routers
Unlike Korean sim cards, which can be found online from sites like Amazon, there are fewer places to rent portable WiFi before you travel to Korea. Fortunately, the same companies that offer Korean sim cards also offer competitive portable WiFi routers, too.
To save you the hassle of finding a good quality portable WiFi router that you can reliably use in Korea, Best of Korea has selected some of the best portable WiFi router providers for you.
This section will include details about our recommended companies offering portable WiFi routers, as well as information about the various price plans and sim card lengths.
It’s best to book online before you travel to Korea. These are usually cheaper and more convenient that trying to find one when you arrive. That’s why all of these options are ones you can buy online before you travel. Getting a portable WiFi router in Korea on arrival at the airport is also possible.
Rent Korean Portable WiFi Routers From Klook
Klook offers portable WiFi routers from KT, one of the big 3 phone companies in Korea. These are one of the most popular options for travelers to Korea and their rental service has a rating of 4.7/5 for customer satisfaction and over 15,000 reviews for their main portable WiFi routers.
Here’s a summary of the key information about this portable WiFi router from Klook.
WiFi Details | Information |
---|---|
Connections | Maximum 3 devices |
Upload Speeds | Up to 50 Mbps |
Download Speeds | Up to 150 Mbps |
Data Allowance | Unlimited |
Cost Per Day | 3,200 KRW |
Additional Days | 3,300 KRW per day |
These WiFi routers can be collected at Incheon Airport in either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 and the collection desks are open 24 hours a day. Here are the details about where to collect the Klook portable WiFi routers.
Pick-up Location | Details |
---|---|
Terminal 1 | 1/F Gate 10-11, KT Roaming Center, open 24 hours, daily |
Terminal 2 | 1/F Gate 2-3, KT Roaming Center, 24 hours, daily |
When you collect the router, show your mobile voucher or printed voucher at the collection desk along with your ID (passport) and credit card. Remember, debit cards can’t be used for the booking. The staff will activate the router and check it’s working.
When you return the router, bring it back to either of these locations at Incheon Airport and pay any extra costs if you rented the router for longer than agreed.
Return Location | Details |
---|---|
Terminal 1 | 3/F Check In Counter D-E |
Terminal 2 | 3/F Check In Counter D-E |
Please note: You can’t return the routers from overseas and you must return them before flying. Portable WiFi routers include batteries, which can’t be posted internationally.
Rent Korean Portable WiFI Routers From Trazy
Trazy also offers portable WiFi routers from SK, one of the big 3 phone companies in Korea. This service also has a rating of 4.7/5 and more than 580 reviews for the sim card. Trazy is a Korea-based travel company and tour operator that has some great prices for locals services and provides the widest selection of tours in Korea.
Here’s a summary of the key information about this portable WiFi router from Trazy.
WiFi Details | Information |
---|---|
Connections | Maximum 3 devices |
Data Speed | Up to 20 Mbps |
Data Allowance | Unlimited |
Max Rental Days | 17 Days* |
Cost Per Day | 3,300 KRW |
Additional Days | 3,300 KRW per day |
30 Day Rental Cost* | 55,000 KRW (1,833 p/d) |
*If you want to rent a portable WiFi router from Trazy for 18 days or more, check out their 30-day rental plan for 55,000 KRW per month.
These WiFi routers can be collected and returned at Incheon Airport in either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 and the collection desks are open 24 hours a day. They can also be collected and returned at other locations in Korea, which can make them more convenient than the Klook options. Here are the pick-up locations at Incheon Airport and throughout Korea.
Pick-up Location | Details |
---|---|
Incheon Airport Terminal 1 | 1/F Gate 9-10, SK Roaming Center, open 24 hours, daily |
Incheon Airport Terminal 2 | 1/F Gate 4-5, SK Roaming Center, 24 hours, daily |
Gangbyeon Station (Seoul) | Technomart, Near Gangbyeon Station, 9:00am to 6:00pm |
Gangnam | Near Yeoksam Station, Gangnam, 9:00am to 6:00pm |
Suwon City | Near Suwon City Hall Station, 9:00am to 6:00pm |
When you collect the router, show your mobile voucher or printed voucher at the collection desk along with your ID (passport) and credit card. Remember, debit cards can’t be used for the booking. The staff will activate the router and check it’s working.
When you return the router, bring it back to either of these locations and pay any extra costs if you rented the router for longer than agreed.
Return Location | Details |
---|---|
Incheon Airport Terminal 1 | 1/F Gate 9-10, SK Roaming Center, open 24 hours, daily |
Incheon Airport Terminal 2 | 1/F Gate 4-5, SK Roaming Center, 24 hours, daily |
Incheon Airport Terminal 2 | 3/F Check In Counter D-E |
Gangbyeon Station (Seoul) | Technomart, Near Gangbyeon Station, 9:00am to 6:00pm |
Gangnam | Near Yeoksam Station, Gangnam, 9:00am to 6:00pm |
Suwon City | Near Suwon City Hall Station, 9:00am to 6:00pm |
Please note: You can’t return the routers from overseas and you must return them before flying. Portable WiFi routers include batteries, which can’t be posted internationally.
Korean Sim Card & Portable WiFi FAQs
Finally, here are a few FAQs about the best Korean sim cards and portable WiFi routers that should cover any other questions you may have.
Will my phone work in Korea?
Most modern cellphones should work in Korea. Any phone compatible with 3G technology or later will be able to use Korean phone networks through a Korean sim card or portable WiFi router. As long as your phone is a WCDMA device and is unlocked by your carrier, you can use a Korean sim card. If your phone isn’t unlocked, you can still use a portable WiFi router in Korea.
Can locked phones access the Internet in Korea?
Yes, locked phones can still access the Internet in Korea through portable WiFi routers and by connecting to free WiFi found in Seoul and other cities.
Does Korea have good mobile phone coverage?
Korea has the world’s best mobile phone coverage and network speeds. Speeds are double those found in the USA on average.
Are Korean sim cards expensive?
Korean sim cards can be relatively expensive compared to costs in the USA for short term visits. This is due to the high costs of network access in Korea for all phone users that has come from high investment in 5G infrastructure and the world’s best network coverage and speeds.
How much do Korean sim cards cost?
Korean sim cards start from around 5,900 KRW per day for a 1 day card, but get cheaper the longer you use them for. Monthly sim card costs in Korea can be as low as 62,000 KRW for unlimited data for 30 days.
What is the benefit of having a Korean phone number?
There are several benefits of having a Korean phone number. The three main reasons are to be able to make and receive calls and texts within Korea. Also, a Korean phone number allows travelers in Korea to use local Korean apps for food delivery, transportation, and such like. Finally, a Korean phone number is a requirement when booking things online, such as tour reservations, attractions, and tickets.
Is it possible to extend a Korean sim card?
Korean sim cards can be extended beyond their original fixed-date term up to a maximum of 90 days total. However, the sim card should be extended before the current term finishes and can’t be extended after it finishes.
Traveling To Korea Soon?
Are you traveling to Korea soon and want to know about more than just the best Korean sim cards and portable WiFi routers? Need information about the current travel restrictions and regulations? Or maybe you want to know what else there is to see and do in Korea, and what other unmissable experiences there are be had in Seoul and beyond?
If so, be sure to check out our South Korea Travel Guide for more info about what to see, where to stay, when to visit, and everything else you need to plan your trip to Korea. And be sure to brush up on Korean Etiquette and Culture to avoid making any cultural faux pas. Learn some Korea before you travel with our guide to the Best Ways To Learn Korean and travel more easily.
The best time to visit Seoul is definitely in spring or fall, where you can see cherry blossoms and fall foliage respectively. January and February are good if you want to enjoy winter sports and possibly see snow. Summer is best spent on Korea’s sandy beaches.
Now, here are a few more tips to help you make your trip to Seoul more comfortable and guarantee you a great stay in the Land of Morning Calm. Check out these hotel recommendations and some of our favorite Korea travel essentials.
Where To Stay In Seoul To See Beautiful Places
Want to know where to stay to see these beautiful places in Seoul? Want to be close to the royal palaces and traditional hanok houses, or in the heart of modern Korean culture, street food, and fashion? Not sure of the most convenient places to stay with good subway connections, great nearby restaurants, or lively nightlife?
Whether you’re traveling on a budget, want to spend on the best service available, or want to balance both, we’ve selected 9 of the best Seoul hotels that you’ll love. Click on the name of each hotel to check prices.
Luxury Hotels
If you want the best the Seoul has to offer, then these three hotels are for you. Located in Seoul’s wealthy neighborhoods of Gangnam and Itaewon, these hotels are in walking distance of Michelin-starred restaurants, chic boutiques, galleries and museums, and the finest shopping experiences available.
Signiel Hotel Seoul ★★★★★
One of the best hotels in Korea, if not the world, the Signiel Hotel Seoul is inside the world’s 6th tallest building – the Lotte World Tower – and will give you an incredible stay in Seoul. Experience unbeatable views from the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 117th floor.
Grand Hyatt Seoul ★★★★★
This sleek hotel is tucked away in a peaceful residential area with trendsetting fashion boutiques, cozy cafes & upmarket restaurants, all within sight of the N Seoul Tower. The views from the hotel are spectacular.
InterContinental Seoul Parnas ★★★★★
The hotel is adjacent to COEX Mall with convenient access to one of the topmost shopping, entertainment, and business complexes in Korea. Guest rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a sophisticated ambiance to unwind and relax.
Mid-Range Hotels
Families, couples, and other travelers that want to experience the best of Seoul without breaking the bank can sleep easy with these next three hotel recommendations. Discover stylish accommodations in these popular districts, each with fantastic city views. These hotels are all conveniently located for sightseeing, shopping, and eating out. Great hotels with reasonable prices.
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon ★★★★★
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon is an immersive lifestyle destination fueled by bold, captivating designs expressed through a playful mindset–an ideal choice both for forward-thinking locals and for international visitors who are looking for fresh and exciting cultural experiences.
Four Points by Sheraton Seoul ★★★★
Explore vibrant Gangnam and famous local attractions including Apgujeong and Garosugil, the Han River, museums and the Hyundai Department Store. Immerse yourself in K-pop culture and K-beauty experiences, great shopping, trendy restaurants and famous lounge bars and clubs.
Lotte Hotel Seoul ★★★★★
Step outside the hotel and you’ll find yourself in Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most popular district for tourists, with royal palaces, famous markets, street food stalls, and a wealth of shopping all a few footsteps away. This hotel is a great base for busy travelers.
Budget Hotels
Seoul has a wealth of budget accommodation options that will help make your money go further. These hotels are all under $100 but offer comfort and convenience. One hotel even has a beautiful rooftop pool. Although these hotels are cheaper, don’t lower your expectations. You’ll always find great service in Korea. Save on sleeping to spend more on shopping, souvenirs, sights, and all the other fun things there are to do in Seoul.
L7 Hongdae by Lotte ★★★★
L7 Hongdae is a delightful cultural station, filled with chic and artistic decorations and colorful rooms that resonate with the stylish inhabitants of the neighborhood. Travelers looking for a relaxing place to stay in a trendy area will love this hotel.
Rosana Boutique Hotel ★★★★
The Rosana Boutique Hotel is a stylish hotel that offers a comfortable night’s stay at budget prices. Located under the shadow of the world’s 6th tallest building – The Lotte World Tower, this is a great hotel for bargain hunters who want beautiful surroundings without 5-star prices.
Mercure Ambassador Hongdae ★★★★
Well known for urban arts, indie music, clubs, restaurants and various entertainment offerings, Hongdae is where you can experience the beating heart of Seoul’s creativity. Watch local students perform at night and try out cutting-edge youth fashion in the boutiques.
Our Recommended Seoul Travel Essentials
From mobile internet to travel passes that save you time and money getting around, here are some of our top tips for when you visit Seoul.
Flights To Korea: Check prices on flight search sites like Skyscanner and Expedia before booking your flights. You can find some amazing discounts and flights to match your schedule from 100s of different airlines.
Getting To Seoul From Incheon Airport: Ride the Airport Express high-speed train to Seoul Station and connect to the subway system and local taxis. However, if you’re traveling as a group, or have a lot of luggage, an Incheon Airport Private Transfer direct to your hotel is a lot more comfortable.
Transportation: Grab a T-Money Card as soon as you arrive at Incheon Airport. You can use it to ride the subway, buses, and pay for purchases in shops, cafes, convenience stores, and more.
Mobile Internet: Internet access makes traveling so much easier these days. Check the weather, get around, order food, book tickets, and so much more. Best of Korea recommends a Korean Sim Card if you want to use Korean apps (you need a number), or a Portable WiFi Router if you just want Internet access without the number. Preorder online and collect at the airport.
Discover Seoul Pass: If you want to see some of Seoul’s hottest attractions, definitely buy a Discover Seoul Pass. This will get you free entry to the N Seoul Tower, COEX Aquarium, Lotte World, Royal Palaces, and lots more. You even get a free T-Money Card and Airport Express Ride with the card.
Keep checking Best of Korea for all of the latest travel recommendations and travel advice.
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