If you’re new to Korea, one of the first things you’ll need is a local mobile phone number — for banking, deliveries, school registration, and even entering buildings with QR codes.
As a Korean local, I’ve helped several international friends set up their phones here, so here’s a simple guide with a few tips to save you time and money.
1. Prepaid SIM vs. Contract Plan – What’s Right for You?
Option 1: Prepaid SIM (선불 유심)
Best for short-term stay (less than 6 months)
- No alien registration card (ARC) required
- Great for tourists or students waiting for ARC
- Pay in advance for data and calls
- Usually available at the airport or online
Option 2: Monthly Plan (후불 요금제)
Best for long-term residents (6+ months)
- ARC required (foreign registration number)
- Lower cost per month than prepaid
- Auto-payment with Korean bank account or credit card
- Comes with a Korean phone number for full use of services
Tip: If you’re a new student, you can start with a prepaid SIM and switch to a contract after you receive your ARC.
2. Where to Buy a SIM Card or Phone Plan
At Incheon Airport:
- Convenience stores or SIM booths near Arrivals
- Easy to set up, but prices can be higher than city options
- Good for immediate use on Day 1
In the City (Seoul, Busan, etc.):
- Major carriers: SK Telecom, KT, LG U+
- SIM providers for foreigners: EG SIM, Chingu Mobile, Woori Mobile, The Arrival Store
- Some stores offer English support and even online registration
Tip: Ask if the store offers plans for foreign students — they often include discounts or simpler registration.
3. Required Documents
For prepaid:
- Passport
For contract (monthly):
- Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Korean bank account or credit card
- Korean address (dorm or apartment)
Note: Some providers now allow you to register online even before entering Korea (you pick up the SIM after arrival).
4. Using a Foreign Phone in Korea
- Make sure your phone is unlocked
- Most Korean SIMs work on GSM and LTE bands
- iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel phones usually work well
- If your phone doesn’t work here, you can buy a basic smartphone locally for KRW 100,000–300,000
5. What Apps to Install Right Away
Once your phone is working, here are some useful Korean apps:
- KakaoTalk – Must-have messenger app (everyone uses it)
- Naver Map or Kakao Map – Better than Google Maps in Korea
- Papago – Excellent for Korean-English translation
- Coupang or Gmarket – For online shopping
- Naver Pay or Toss – Mobile payments and bank transfers (requires Korean phone number)
Final Tips
- Don’t rush into a long contract if you’re not sure how long you’ll stay
- Ask your university if they have mobile partners — some offer group deals for students
- Keep your passport and ARC safe — they’re needed again if you want to change plans later