Are you traveling to South Korea?
With its blend of futuristic cities, ancient temples, and stunning natural landscapes, it offers an unforgettable travel experience. A Korean eSIM can be your perfect travel buddy to stay connected without searching for physical SIM cards or relying on pricey roaming fees.
Stay connected instantly and effortlessly, whether you’re in Seoul or venturing into the countryside, with this guide.
Picture by Aleksandar Pasaric, Ethan Brooke and Pixabay on Pexels
What is an eSIM and How Does it Work?
An eSIM is like a SIM card, but it’s already inside your phone, tablet, or other device. You don’t need to put in a physical SIM card. Instead, you turn it on by scanning a QR code or typing in some info your eSIM company gives you. The best thing about an eSIM is that you can switch between different phone companies right away, without having to change any cards.
This is great for people visiting South Korea. You can get a local data plan as soon as you arrive, so you don’t have to pay expensive roaming fees. Plus, if you need two phone numbers (like one for work and one for personal use), you can manage them both on one device. To learn more, check out this guide about what an eSIM card is. More and more phones, tablets, and even smartwatches are starting to use eSIMs. As technology gets better, eSIMs will probably become the normal way to connect, because they’re easy and let you do more.
eSIM vs. Prepaid SIM Card in South Korea
Deciding between an eSIM and a traditional prepaid SIM card involves weighing the benefits of each option relative to your specific travel needs. Here’s a detailed comparison to assist you. You can also check out this article to find out more about it.
| Feature | eSIM | Prepaid SIM Card |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Instant activation via QR code or app | Requires visiting a local store; may require ID verification |
| Flexibility | Easily switch between plans/providers remotely | Changing plans requires physical SIM swap |
| Initial Internet | Requires Wi-Fi or existing data connection for activation | Works immediately upon insertion |
| Availability | Purchase online anytime, before or upon arrival | Readily available in major cities but may require registration |
| Device Compatibility | Works only on eSIM-compatible devices | Works on any unlocked phone |
| Convenience | No physical handling of SIMs required | Must visit a vendor in person; SIM card can be lost or damaged |
| Environmental Impact | Reduces plastic waste | Contributes to plastic waste |
You Might Also Like to Read: eSIM vs. Physical SIM 2025: Which One Should You Use?
Why Choose an eSIM for Traveling in South Korea?
Pictures by Unplash and Ancient Stock photos by Vecteezy
Spend Less on Roaming Fees
Traditional international roaming charges can be incredibly high. With an eSIM, you gain access to local data plans at significantly reduced rates. For example, using standard roaming in South Korea might incur charges as high as $5 per megabyte, which means just a few minutes of using maps or social media could lead to a large bill. However, an eSIM allows you to pay local rates instead of those expensive international fees.
A tourist using a traditional roaming plan could easily spend over $300 per month, whereas an eSIM plan providing the same data might cost around $30, offering savings of up to 90%. Take a look at this easy guide to learn more.
Set Up in Seconds
Forget the hassle of searching for a SIM card vendor at the airport or wasting time swapping tiny SIM cards. An eSIM allows you to set up your phone’s data plan even before you arrive in South Korea. By activating your eSIM prior to your trip, you ensure that you’re connected from the moment you land. This eliminates downtime spent searching for local SIM cards and provides immediate access to essential services like maps, ride-sharing apps, and communication platforms.
Multi-Country eSIM Solution
If your itinerary includes visits to multiple countries in Asia, an eSIM can simplify your connectivity needs. Many eSIM providers offer multi-country plans covering various destinations, allowing you to stay connected without purchasing a new SIM card at each border. This is particularly useful if you’re planning a backpacking trip throughout Southeast Asia.
Sustainable Travel Option
Every year, billions of plastic SIM cards are manufactured, with most being discarded after a single use, contributing to global waste. eSIMs offer an environmentally friendly alternative by eliminating the need for plastic SIM cards. Choosing an eSIM helps reduce plastic waste and promotes a more sustainable approach to travel.
Connected in Remote Locations
Korea boasts bustling cities and remote natural landscapes. A reliable eSIM provider ensures you stay connected, even in areas like the scenic countryside, national parks, or coastal regions outside major cities. With robust 4G and 5G coverage, you can share experiences, access essential travel information, and stay in touch, wherever your adventures take you.
How to Choose the Best eSIM for South Korea
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Will You Have Signal Wherever You Travel?
Given South Korea’s diverse geography, it’s crucial to choose an eSIM that offers reliable network coverage across your intended destinations. If you’ll spend most of your time in major urban areas like Seoul, Busan, or Incheon, most eSIM providers will offer adequate coverage. However, if your plans include visits to more remote regions like the rural areas or mountainous national parks, make sure your chosen eSIM partners with strong local networks like SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+.
How Much Data Suits Your Trip?
The amount of data you need depends on your usage. For basic tasks such as using Google Maps, checking emails, and light browsing, 1GB to 3GB per week should be adequate. If you intend to use social media, stream videos, or engage in frequent video calls, a plan offering 5GB to 10GB over two weeks should suffice. Those who work remotely, stream high-definition video content, or rely heavily on cloud-based services should consider an unlimited plan or one with at least 20GB+ per month.
Many providers also allow topping up data, so starting with a smaller plan and upgrading as needed can be a good approach.
Duration of Your Stay?
eSIM plans typically vary in duration, catering to diverse travel schedules. For shorter trips of one to seven days, a weekly plan with a minimum of 1GB per day should suffice. For longer visits of two weeks to a month, you should evaluate plans offering 5GB, 10GB, or unlimited data. Frequent travelers may want to consider multi-country or regional plans that cover multiple Asian countries for seamless connectivity.
Do You Require Calls, Texts, or Only Data?
Be aware that most eSIM plans are primarily data-centric. You’ll likely need to rely on applications like WhatsApp, Telegram, or KakaoTalk to make calls and send texts. However, some providers offer plans with a local phone number for inbound and outbound calls, as well as SMS functionality. Ensure you confirm availability before finalizing your purchase.
Is an eSIM Hotspot Necessary?
If you plan to share your mobile data connection with other devices, confirm whether your eSIM provider permits hotspot usage (tethering). While some eSIM plans expressly permit hotspot sharing, others might prohibit it.
Pricing
The pricing structure for eSIMs in Korea depends primarily on the provider’s data allowance, the coverage plan’s duration, and the specific carrier’s services. Budget travelers can find smaller data options for limited usage starting at affordable rates. Compare different options to get the best value and monitor providers for promotional deals or bundle discounts.
Best eSIM Providers for South Korea in 2025
Yoho Mobile
Yoho Mobile is one of the best eSIM providers for travelers looking for affordable, flexible plans. They offer a 3GB plan for just $4.75 (7 days), which is one of the most cost-effective data plans in Korea. Their plans support both 4G and 5G networks, ensuring high-speed connectivity whether you’re streaming videos in the capital or in remote areas.
One of the biggest advantages of Yoho Mobile is its hotspot support, which allows you to share your connection with other devices. This is a great feature for digital nomads, or those who travel frequently with multiple gadgets. This provider also offers 24/7 customer support in multiple languages via live chat and email, so help is always available if you run into issues.
Picture by Irtiza Hussain on Pexels
Flexiroam
Flexiroam is a great choice for those who plan to travel beyond Korea. Their eSIMs work across multiple countries, allowing seamless connectivity without needing to swap SIM cards. In Korea, a 1GB plan costs around $15 for 7 days, which is on the higher side. Flexiroam runs on 4G networks, providing reliable speeds in urban areas like Seoul and Busan. It also supports hotspot tethering, which is useful for those who need to share their connection.
However, note that Flexiroam does not disclose carrier information until after a plan is purchased, so you can’t check the coverage quality in advance. While their customer service is generally reliable, response times can be slow, especially during peak hours, which could be a problem if you need urgent assistance. Additionally, Flexiroam’s setup is more complicated than other eSIM providers, especially when switching or reconnecting, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.
Jetpac
Jetpac offers straightforward, budget-friendly eSIM plans, making it a good option for tourists who need just basic connectivity. Their 3GB plan costs around $11 for a week, giving travelers a low-cost way to stay online while exploring Korea. The eSIM operates on stable 4G networks with consistent speeds in most major cities. Jetpac also has hotspot support, allowing users to connect laptops or other devices without restrictions.
However, for heavy data users who require large amounts of data for streaming or gaming, Jetpac does not offer unlimited data plans, which may be a drawback. So, it’s best to carefully review the plan details before purchasing to avoid any surprises.
Saily
Saily is another option for travelers staying in Korea for an extended period. Their 3GB plan is priced at $7.99 for 30 days, making it a solid choice for those who want a longer-lasting data plan. They offer 4G connectivity, and hotspot sharing is supported.
However, Saily does not offer unlimited data plans either, which may be a dealbreaker for heavy users. Additionally, while generally affordable, Saily eSIM can be slightly more expensive than purchasing a local SIM card for longer stays. While Saily is generally a reliable service, internet speeds can be inconsistent depending on the network provider, meaning you might experience slower speeds in certain areas. Another issue is that customer support response times can be slow outside of business hours, which may be inconvenient if you need immediate assistance.
Airhub
Airhub is a strong option for those traveling not only to Korea but also to nearby regions. They offer multi-country eSIM plans, making them a great choice for travelers moving between Korea, Japan, and other Asian destinations. Their 12GB plan costs around $15.50 for a month, providing both 4G and 5G access for fast and stable internet. One of Airhub’s benefits is its hotspot compatibility, which allows easy internet sharing.
Despite its benefits, Airhub has some drawbacks. The single sign-on functionality can be problematic, and the app itself can feel clunky at times. Checking data usage is not intuitive, as it requires multiple clicks to view, unlike other eSIM providers that display this information more prominently. Another issue is that data usage is not clearly visible, and it may show “Activating” for a long period if the eSIM is not activated in the destination country.
How to Buy & Activate an eSIM for South Korea
Step 1: Pick the Best eSIM Provider
Before buying, make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible by checking this list. Yoho Mobile is a reliable provider with great coverage across South Korea. Compare different plans and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Step 2: Visit the Yoho Mobile Store
Head over to the Yoho Mobile website or download the Yoho Mobile app from the App Store. This makes it easy to browse and purchase your eSIM from anywhere.
Step 3: Select Your Destination
Choose South Korea as your travel destination. If you’re also visiting nearby countries like Japan or China, consider a multi-country plan that covers multiple destinations to stay connected seamlessly.
Step 4: Choose the Right Data Plan
Pick a plan that matches how long you’ll stay and how much data you need:
- Short stays (1-3 days): A 3GB plan is enough for maps, messaging, and browsing.
- Longer trips (5-10 days): A 10GB or unlimited plan works better for video calls and streaming.
- Business travelers & remote workers: Unlimited data is the best choice for uninterrupted internet access.
Step 5: Purchase Your eSIM
Buy your eSIM directly from the website or app:
- Enter your email to receive the QR code for activation.
- Use a promo code to save money. Get 12% off with the code YOHO12.
- Pay with your preferred method: credit card, WeChat, Amazon Pay, Alipay, or Cash App Pay.
Step 6: Install & Activate Your eSIM
After purchase, you’ll get an email with a QR code to activate your eSIM. Follow these steps to set it up:
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Open your phone’s settings → Go to **Mobile Data → Select Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code provided by Yoho Mobile.
- Wait a few seconds for activation. Your plan will start immediately or on your chosen activation date.
Want more flexibility? Check out how to create a personalized eSIM plan to customize your experience.
Final Thoughts: Is an eSIM Worth It in South Korea?
An eSIM is the easiest way to stay connected while traveling in South Korea. It removes the need to search for a SIM card, helps you avoid expensive roaming charges, and ensures fast internet access as soon as you arrive. Whether you’re exploring Seoul’s busy streets, working remotely, or traveling across the country, an eSIM gives you reliable 4G and 5G coverage without interruptions. As more networks expand their eSIM support, this technology is becoming the best option for travelers looking for a quick, simple, and cost-effective way to stay online.
FAQs About Using an eSIM in South Korea
How much data do I need for my trip to South Korea?
The amount of data you need depends on how often you use the internet. If you just need maps and messages, 3GB to 5GB per week should be enough. If you browse social media and make video calls, a 10GB to 15GB plan for two weeks is a better choice. For remote work or frequent streaming, an unlimited plan is the safest option.
Does South Korea support eSIM?
Yes! South Korea fully supports eSIM technology, with major networks like SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus offering great coverage. Whether you’re staying in Seoul, visiting Jeju Island, or exploring smaller towns, eSIM providers offer stable and fast connections without the need for a physical SIM.
Can I make calls and send texts with a South Korea eSIM?
Most eSIM plans in South Korea are data-only, meaning you’ll need apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or FaceTime for calls and messages. Some providers do offer eSIMs with local numbers for calling and texting, so it’s worth checking before you buy. Look at this guide to get more information.
What is the best eSIM for South Korea?
The best eSIM depends on your travel needs:
- Yoho Mobile: Great for budget-friendly and flexible plans.
- Flexiroam: A good choice for travelers visiting multiple countries, though slightly pricier.
- Jetpac: An affordable option for short trips, but may not have large data plans.
- Saily: Easy to set up for tourists, but speeds may vary depending on location.
- Airhub: Ideal for those traveling across Asia, but service quality depends on the provider’s partnerships.
Choose the right provider based on your usage and travel plans, and enjoy a stress-free trip with instant connectivity.