Best SIM Cards and eSIM Options for Tourists in Korea

Traveling to South Korea soon? Staying connected is crucial for navigating public transportation, using translation apps, and sharing your adventures. This guide breaks down the best SIM card and eSIM options for tourists, including pricing, where to buy them, and what to consider before choosing one.

Why You Need a Local SIM or eSIM in Korea

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in Korea, but it’s not always reliable or secure. Having a local SIM or eSIM allows you to:

• Use navigation apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap
• Order food or taxis using local apps
• Stay connected with friends and social media
• Avoid expensive international roaming fees

📍 Where to Buy SIM/eSIM in Korea

• KT Olleh: Available at Incheon Airport Terminal 1 (Arrival Gates A and F) and Terminal 2 (Gates 4–5). Some locations operate 24/7. Customer service: +82‑2‑2190‑0901. Passport and unlocked phone required.
• SK Telecom: Booths located opposite Gate 13 at Terminal 1 and between Gates 6–7 at Terminal 2 (24 hours). Online reservation and pickup available. Supports eSIM via QR code.
• LG U+: Located near Gate F (24h) and Gate A at Terminal 1, and Gates 4–5 and 6–7 at Terminal 2. Offers data + voice plans. Advance reservation recommended.
• Convenience Stores & Vending Machines: SIM cards also available at GS25, CU, 7‑Eleven, and vending machines inside the airport lobby.

🌐 Buy Online & Pickup or Delivery

• Airalo / Nomad / Gigago: eSIMs available for 1 to 30 days, with 1–20GB or unlimited data plans (starting from $4.5).
• KoreaSIM (krsim.net): Unlimited eSIM/USIM with airport pickup options.
• KT, SK, LG: Purchase via official eSIM apps or websites. Pickup at the airport or immediate installation via QR code available.

Best Prepaid SIM Cards for Tourists

Provider	Data	Validity	Price (USD)	Where to Buy
KT Olleh	Unlimited	5 / 10 / 30 days	$20–$60	Incheon Airport, online
SK Telecom	Unlimited	3 / 7 / 30 days	$15–$50	Incheon Airport, kiosks
LG U+	10 GB or Unlimited	5–30 days	$25–$65	Online, airports

eSIM Options for Travelers

eSIM is a great alternative if your phone supports it. It eliminates the need to swap physical SIM cards and allows instant activation.

Provider	Data	Validity	Price (USD)	Buy Online
Airalo (Korea Data)	1–20 GB	7–30 days	$4.5–$26	airalo.com
Nomad	1–20 GB	7–30 days	$5–$30	getnomad.app
Korea SIM eSIM	Unlimited	5 / 10 / 30 days	$19–$49	krsim.net

Things to Consider

• Phone Compatibility: Make sure your device supports Korean networks and eSIM if applicable.
• Activation Time: SIMs at the airport can be activated immediately. eSIMs may take a few minutes to set up.
• Hotspot Usage: Most SIMs and eSIMs allow tethering, but check terms to confirm.

📌 Final Thoughts

Staying connected in Korea is easy with the wide range of SIM and eSIM options available to tourists. Whether you choose a physical SIM at the airport or install an eSIM before departure, you’ll enjoy fast and reliable internet throughout your trip. Choose the option that best fits your travel length and budget—and enjoy Korea without worrying about Wi-Fi.