Korea eSIM & SIM Comparison
Compare eSIM and local SIM options for Korea to find the best plan for your trip.
Quick Recommendation by Scenario
| Scenario | Pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Short trip (7 days or less) | Airalo or Nomad eSIM | Easy setup before arrival, competitive price |
| Long stay (14+ days) | KT or SKT physical SIM | Unlimited data, local number option |
| Need a Korean phone number | KT or SKT SIM with voice plan | For AirBnB check-in, booking SMS verification, etc. |
| Rural / countryside travel | SKT Tourist SIM | Best nationwide coverage including remote areas |
Detailed Plan Comparison
Airalo
eSIMNetwork
KT / LG U+
Data
1 GB – 20 GB
Validity
7 – 30일
Price
From $4.50 (1 GB, 7 days)
+Buy and install before arrival
+Multi-region Asia plans available
+World's largest eSIM marketplace
–Data-only (no calls or texts)
–eSIM-compatible device required
Nomad
eSIMNetwork
SKT / KT
Data
1 GB – 50 GB
Validity
7 – 30일
Price
From $4.99 (1 GB, 7 days)
+Top-up supported within the plan
+5G plans available
+Real-time data monitoring in app
–Data-only (no calls)
–Can be slightly pricier than Airalo
KT 로밍 SIM
물리 SIMNetwork
KT 5G
Data
무제한 (속도 제한 있음)
Validity
5 – 30일
Price
From ₩33,000 (5-day unlimited)
+Voice call plans available
+Available at airport arrivals immediately
+Unlimited data plans
–Speed throttled after daily threshold (3 Mbps)
–Requires physical SIM swap
–Only available after arrival in Korea
SKT 여행 SIM
물리 SIMNetwork
SKT 5G
Data
무제한 (속도 제한 있음)
Validity
7 – 30일
Price
From ₩38,000 (7-day unlimited)
+SKT nationwide coverage (excellent in rural areas)
+Voice call plans available
+SKT roaming center at airports
–Slightly more expensive than KT
–Requires physical SIM swap
How to Set Up an eSIM (Step by Step)
- 1
Check eSIM compatibility — Settings → General → About → look for 'Digital SIM' (iPhone), or Settings → Connections → SIM Manager (Galaxy)
- 2
Install the Airalo or Nomad app and create an account
- 3
Select a Korea plan → checkout (foreign credit cards accepted)
- 4
Scan the QR code you receive or tap 'Install' in the app
- 5
Go to Settings → Mobile Data → activate the installed eSIM
- 6
After landing in Korea, confirm data roaming is enabled — it usually connects automatically
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Korea — eSIM or physical SIM?
eSIM (Airalo or Nomad) is best if you want convenience and data-only. Physical SIMs from KT or SKT are better if you need a local Korean phone number for voice calls, or if your device is older and doesn't support eSIM.
Does my phone support eSIM?
Most iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer support eSIM. Check Settings → General → About on iPhone (look for 'Digital SIM') or Settings → Connections → SIM Manager on Galaxy to confirm.
Can I keep my home number while using a Korean eSIM?
Yes — eSIM is a second line that coexists with your physical SIM. Your home number stays active (roaming charges may apply for calls/texts). Use the Korean eSIM line for data only, and disable roaming on your home plan to avoid charges.
Where can I buy a KT or SKT SIM at the airport?
Both KT and SKT have booths at Incheon Airport arrivals hall (T1 and T2), and in Seoul at Gimpo Airport. They are also available at convenience stores (CU, GS25) nationwide, but airport counters are the most convenient for first-time visitors.
Is 5G available for tourists in Korea?
Yes — Korea has excellent 5G coverage in major cities. Nomad and SKT Tourist SIM offer 5G plans. For most travel use cases, LTE is sufficient and plans are cheaper.