eSIM Korea: Effortless Travel Connectivity with Our Top-Rated Plans

An embedded SIM card, or eSIM, is a digital version of a physical SIM card. There are two main types of prepaid eSIMs available:

1. Data-only eSIMs provide mobile internet access but do not come with a local phone number. They allow using data services like maps, messaging apps, web browsing, etc. However, you cannot make regular calls or send SMS texts without a phone number.
2. Full-service eSIMs work just like a traditional SIM card. They provide a local Korea phone number plus data connectivity. This allows making calls, sending texts, and using mobile internet.

For tourists traveling to Korea, most eSIM options are data-only plans. They give you mobile data to stay connected online, use travel apps, maps, and contact people via Internet messaging. But they do not support voice calls or SMS without a local number.

Travelers can use a Korea data eSIM to access useful apps and services during their trip, like Google Maps, WhatsApp, Skype, travel sites, email etc. While not a full replacement for a SIM card, data eSIMs meet the needs of most tourists who just need connectivity and internet access in Korea. They can be purchased conveniently online before the trip starts.

There are two main categories of eSIM providers that offer plans for travel to Korea:

1. Local Korean mobile operators: The three major cellular networks in Korea are SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+. They each offer eSIM plans directly to tourists visiting Korea.
2. Global eSIM providers: These companies provide eSIMs for multiple countries worldwide, including Korea travel plans. They are not affiliated with specific Korean networks.

The local Korean mobile operators offer eSIM plans on their own networks - SK Telecom, KT or LG U+. This gives you direct access to their network coverage and speeds.

The global eSIM providers generally resell or lease capacity from the Korean mobile networks. They can offer Korea connectivity on SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+ depending on their agreements.

Next, we can explore the specific eSIM plan options, pricing, and features offered by the local Korean mobile operators versus the global eSIM providers for travel to Korea. This will help compare the pros and cons of the two provider categories.

Purchasing eSIM directly from Local Korean Operator has some advantages but also disadvantages for tourists:

Pros:

• Faster network speeds and better connectivity on local networks
• Access to 5G networks
• Local Korean phone numbers
• Wider range of plan options

Cons:

• Require personal registration which can be inconvenient
• Need to go to local stores to purchase and activate
• Limited to only that operator's network

1.1 SK Telecom Korea eSIM

SK Telecom is one of the major cellular network operators in Korea. They offer eSIM plans tailored for tourists visiting Korea.

With SK Telecom's eSIM service, visitors can enjoy fast 5G data speeds, wide coverage, and competitive pricing. SK Telecom provides a 5G Roaming Pass with two options:

• 10GB of data valid for 7 days
• 20GB of data valid for 15 days

The benefit of using SK Telecom's Korea eSIM is direct access to their advanced 5G network. However, you need to provide personal details to register when purchasing.

1.2 KT Korea eSIM

KT is another leading mobile carrier in Korea catering to locals and travelers. Their eSIM plans to provide seamless connectivity across Korea.

To use the KT Korea eSIM, you need to buy a prepaid SIM card and activate it as an eSIM on your device at the same KT store. This eSIM activation is free but requires a compatible device. Personal registration is also needed during purchase.

Benefits of the KT eSIM include:

• Local phone number provided
• Compatible with different prepaid and postpaid plans
• Reliable connectivity on KT's network

1.3 LG U+ Korea 

LG U+ is the third major mobile operator in Korea. Their eSIM offering also enables tourists to stay connected.

You can either buy an LG U+ prepaid SIM card or directly purchase an eSIM plan. After obtaining it, activate the eSIM on your device for use.

Advantages of LG U+ Korea eSIM:

• Local Korean phone number
• Cross-device compatibility with iOS and Android
• Easy to activate and use
• Flexible plans to choose from

So in summary, the local Korean operator eSIMs offer direct network access but require registration. Global eSIMs provide more convenience but may have slower speeds.

Buy and Receive in 5 minutes.

Method 2: Check your phone setting

Check whether your devices support eSIM following these steps.