Guide to Internet & Mobile Phone Plans in Korea
As a foreigner living in or moving to South Korea, one of the first things you’ll want to set up is reliable internet and a mobile phone plan. Korea is known for having some of the fastest internet in the world, and its mobile networks are well-developed with 5G coverage in most cities. However, navigating the Korean telecommunications system can be confusing due to language barriers, contract terms, and the variety of providers. This guide will walk you through how to get internet and mobile phone services in Korea, what documents you need, and the best options based on your needs.
1. Major Internet & Mobile Service Providers in Korea
There are three main telecom companies in South Korea.
- SK Telecom (SKT) – Largest and most widely used, known for strong nationwide coverage.
- KT (Korea Telecom) – Government-affiliated with excellent customer service and wide coverage.
- LG U+ – Competitive pricing and strong data plans, especially popular with younger users.
Each company provides internet (home broadband), mobile plans, TV packages, and even bundled services at discounted prices.
2. Setting Up Home Internet
Types of Home Internet Services
Most Koreans use fiber-optic broadband, which delivers incredibly fast speeds. Plans typically offer speeds between 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
Internet Plan Options:
| Speed | Monthly Price (KRW) | Notes |
| 100 Mbps | ₩22,000–₩30,000 | Good for light users |
| 500 Mbps | ₩30,000–₩40,000 | Ideal for streaming and WFH |
| 1 Gbps | ₩40,000–₩50,000 | Best for gamers and large households |
Required Documents for Foreigners:
- Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Korean phone number
- Bank account (for auto-debit)
📝 Tip: Visit a physical store for setup help, or ask your landlord to help with installation.
3. Choosing a Mobile Phone Plan in Korea
Prepaid vs. Postpaid:
- Prepaid SIM Cards: No contract, great for short-term visitors.
- Postpaid Plans: Monthly billing, better data deals, may require ARC and bank account.
Common Mobile Plans:
| Data Limit | Monthly Fee (KRW) | Provider Options |
| 1–3GB | ₩11,000–₩22,000 | Prepaid SIM, MVNO |
| 10GB+ | ₩33,000–₩55,000 | KT, SKT, LG U+ |
| Unlimited | ₩60,000–₩80,000 | SKT/KT (5G support) |
Many foreigners use MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) like EG Mobile, U+알뜰폰, or KT M Mobile to save money. These providers offer cheaper SIM-only deals using the main carriers’ networks.
4. Where to Buy a SIM Card
- At the Airport – Incheon and Gimpo airports have kiosks offering prepaid SIM cards.
- Convenience Stores – GS25 and CU sometimes sell travel SIMs.
- Online – Order a SIM via websites like Trazy, Klook, or local MVNO sites.
- Retail Shops – Visit SKT, KT, or LG U+ stores for contracts or device plans.
🛑 Contracts are typically 24 months, and early cancellation incurs penalties.
5. Using an Unlocked Phone or Buying a New One
If you already own an unlocked smartphone, you can use it with a Korean SIM card. Just make sure it supports Korea's LTE and 5G frequencies.
If not, you can:
- Buy a phone outright at a retail store.
- Get a phone on contract (24 months) with a postpaid plan.
📱 Most locals use Samsung Galaxy, Apple iPhones, or LG smartphones.
6. Bundle Deals: Save with Internet + Mobile + TV
Korean telecom providers offer bundle packages that combine:
- Home internet
- Mobile service
- IPTV (Korean cable TV)
These bundles can save you ₩10,000–₩20,000/month depending on the provider. If you're settling long-term, ask about bundled discounts.
7. Tips for Foreigners
- 📑 Always bring your Alien Registration Card (ARC) for contracts.
- 💳 Set up automatic payments to avoid late fees.
- 💬 Some stores offer English-speaking support, especially in Seoul or expat areas like Itaewon or Gangnam.
- 🔄 If you're staying less than 90 days, go with a prepaid SIM instead of signing a contract.
Whether you’re in Korea for a short visit, studying, or living long-term, understanding how to set up internet and mobile services is essential. With affordable, high-speed internet and competitive mobile phone plans, staying connected in Korea is both easy and efficient—once you know where to look. Use this guide to choose the best telecom provider, avoid unnecessary fees, and make the most of Korea’s tech-forward infrastructure.
⚠️ Plan availability and rates may vary between providers. It is highly recommended to compare offers and ask store staff about foreigner-friendly services before signing a contract.
