Exploring South Korea — from hyperconnected Seoul to the serene temples of Jeju — requires continuous, high-speed internet. With one of the most advanced 5G infrastructures in the world, the country offers exceptional coverage, but traditional roaming is still expensive and physical SIM cards require bureaucratic registration. eSIMs (virtual SIM cards) emerge as the ideal solution: instant activation, transparent pricing, and total flexibility. This guide details the best global and local options for you to browse, translate, and share every moment of your Korean journey.
Read also: Essential eSIM Guide for Tourists in Japan
Table of Contents
Holafly
Holafly leads for those who prioritize unlimited data. Its plans (5 to 30 days) operate on the SK Telecom network, covering 99% of South Korean territory — including subway stations, rural areas, and islands like Jeju. Ideal for streaming K-dramas, live broadcasts in Bukchon Hanok Village, or heavy GPS usage. A 10-day plan costs US$ 34, with 24-hour in Portuguese via the app.
Activation is simplified: buy online, receive the QR code by email, and scan it upon landing in Incheon. Unlike Japan, Korea requires compatibility with 5G bands (n78/n79) for maximum speeds — check if your phone s it (iPhone 12+ or Android flagship post-2021).
Airalo
Perfect for itineraries that include Korea + Japan or China, Airalo offers the Asialink plan (10GB/30 days for US$ 24), covering 19 Asian countries. In Korea, it uses the KT Olleh network, which is stable in crowded places like Myeongdong or festivals like the Boryeong Mud Festival. Its app allows you to manage data, top up packages, and activate up to 5 eSIMs simultaneously.
For short stays, the 1GB/7 days plan costs US$ 5. The loyalty program offers cashback of 5% in credits for future trips.
Ubigi
Ubigi dominates in the ultrafast segment: offers free 5G in Seoul, Busan, and Daegu with minimal latency (1~3ms). Plans start from US$ 12 for 3GB/30 days, using the LG U+ network — the only one with full coverage in subway stations and KTX trains. Ideal for online gaming, 4K calls, or augmented reality in digital museums like the MMCA.
Your differentiator is the integration with Naver Map (a superior Korean map app to Google Maps), which consumes less data with offline navigation. Automatic activation occurs when local networks are detected, eliminating the need for manual configuration.
Saily
In a country with strict data legislation, Saily's integrated VPN protects your browsing on public networks. Plans start at US$ 4.50 for 1GB, using SK Telecom. The app blocks ads and trackers — crucial for avoiding malware when accessing K-pop sites or shopping on local platforms like Coupang.
Recommended for those using Wi-Fi at guesthouses or cafes in Hongdae. The responds in less than 5 minutes for APN adjustments or connection issues.
Nomad
Specializing in regional coverage, Nomad offers the Asia-Pacific (APAC) plan, valid simultaneously in Japan and Korea – perfect for those including both countries in the same itinerary. With 10GB for US$ 26 (valid for 30 days), it operates on the networks KT Olleh (Korea) and SoftBank (Japan), ensuring automatic transition when crossing borders.
The differential is the "add-ons" system: when you exhaust the data, it is possible to purchase additional blocks of 5GB (US$ 12) without changing the original plan's validity.
Roamless
Revolutionary by the concept of "Single Global eSIM", Roamless works in 200+ countries – including Japan and Korea – with a single virtual chip. It offers two models:
- RoamlessFlex: Pay only for what you use (US$ 0.10/MB), ideal for occasional use;
- RoamlessFix: Pre-defined packages (e.g., 20GB/30 days for US$ 59).
The great innovation is the integration with VoIP calls: through the app, it is possible to make international calls at US$ 0.01/minute, using eSIM data. Free 5G in Seoul and Tokyo.
Local Operators (LGU+ / SK Telecom)
Upon arriving in Korea, find kiosks from the operators LGU+ and SK Telecom at Incheon and Gimpo airports. They offer tourist eSIMs with a temporary local number (useful for restaurant reservations like Gwangjang Market). Prices start at ₩30,000 (US$ 22) for 10GB/30 days, including unlimited local calls.
Advantages:
- On-site for immediate setup.
- Exclusive benefits (discounts on attractions like Lotte World).
- Simplified registration with a port (no ARC required).
Disadvantage: Plans are only available in Korean or English.
eTravelSim: Temporary Local Numbers
For those who need to make local calls, eTravelSim provides eSIMs with a temporary South Korean phone number (prefix +82). This makes it easier to reserve traditional restaurants in Seoul or to receive SMS confirmations for services like KakaoTalk.
Plans combine data and minutes: 5GB + 60 minutes of calls cost US$ 24/15 days. The main network is LG U+, performing well in rural areas such as Jeju Island. Attention: port registration is required for activation, according to local laws 16.
Conclusion
Choose based on your itinerary:
- Unlimited data and 24h : Holafly
- Multi-country itineraries + economy: Airalo
- 5G and low latency: Ubigi
- Security in public networks: Saily
- Local number and cultural discounts: Local operators (LGU+/SK)
✨ Strategic tip: Korea offers free Wi-Fi on buses, subways, and public squares (network "Public Wi-Fi Safe"). Combine a moderately sized eSIM (e.g., 5GB) with these spots to save.
With 98% in the territory covered by 5G, you will always be connected to capture every mukbang, translate signs in hangul, or find the best cosmetics store in Myeongdong. Hello and have a good trip!
