All about Korea tourist SIM card: Where and how to buy Korean travel sim card, activate & best Korean eSIMs

October 23, 2025

Do I need a sim card in Korea, When traveling to Korea, which network should you buy a SIM card from and how to choose a SIM card, how to get Korean sim card, how to activate sim card in Korea? “Pocket” the guide on how to buy Korean sim card for tourists (Korea tourist sim card, Korean travel sim card) right through the following article!

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Korea attracts millions of tourists every year because of its beautiful scenery, diverse cuisine, and vibrant culture. When coming to Korea, owning a tourist SIM card is indispensable. This is an important support utility that helps tourists make the most of their trip when they can quickly find information about tourist attractions, dining places, and special promotions.

Let’s learn how to choose and buy a Korean SIM card quickly and conveniently with Living Nomads!

Trusted Network Providers of Korean Tourist SIM Card

Korea is famous for its modern telecommunications infrastructure, and the three largest network providers providing tourist SIM cards for tourists are SK Telecom, KT Corporation, and LG U+. Each carrier has its own advantages and service packages, suitable for different needs of users.

SK Telecom – The Largest Carrier in Korea

Unlimited Data eSIMs for South Korea from SKT

SK Telecom (T World) is the largest carrier in Korea, known for its wide coverage and high quality service. SK Telecom offers three travel SIM packages at reasonable prices:

Korea SIM Gold: Provides unlimited data from 4.5 USD for 1 day to 49.9 USD for 30 days.
Korea SIM Purple: Data only, no phone number, priced from 91.6 USD for 60 days to 274.8 USD for 180 days.
Korea eSIM Red: Similar to SIM Gold but in the form of eSIM, also priced from 91.6 USD for 60 days.

KT – High-Speed 5G Network

5G eSIM South Korea | SKT

KT is the second largest carrier, known for its strong 5G infrastructure. KT’s travel SIM plans, Korea SIM Blue Plus, are available at many airports, with prices ranging from $22.90 for 5 days to $109.90 for 60 days, all with unlimited data and unlimited domestic calls.

LG U+ – The Cost-Effective Option

Ranking third in market share, LG U+ offers the Korea Blue Sky SIM and Korea eSIM Sky, with the fastest 4G/LTE upload speeds. LG U+ SIM plans are quite affordable, with a five-day plan costing around $17, and a 30-day plan costing around $45. However, LG U+ SIMs can only be purchased online or at the airport, which can be inconvenient for travelers.

Overall, SK Telecom is the best option in terms of coverage and affordable short-term SIM plans. Meanwhile, LG U+ has the advantage in price but the SIM purchase process is more complicated.

Where to buy SIM card in Korea?

To buy a Korean travel SIM, visitors can choose to buy it right in Korea or buy it in advance in Vietnam, depending on their needs and personal conditions.

Buy a Korean Tourist SIM

Modern space inside Incheon airport. | korea tourist sim card

South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT

There are two main types of Korean SIMs: data-only SIMs and call-enabled SIMs. You can choose the type that suits your needs. Two popular places to buy SIMs are the airport and convenience stores.

Airport: At Incheon Airport, you will find KT SIM counters in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with flexible opening hours. The staff usually speaks English quite well, making it easy for you to go through the SIM purchase and activation process. You need to present your passport and follow the staff’s instructions. For call SIMs, the process is a bit more complicated as you have to enter information into a link and enter a password on the SIM to activate it.

Convenience Stores: Buying a SIM card at stores like 7/11 is also an option for you. However, the big difficulty is that most of the staff do not speak English, so it will be a bit difficult for those who do not know Korean.

Buy a Korea tourist sim card in Vietnam

Korea Visa Application Service For Vietnamese

Another more convenient option is to buy a tourist SIM card in Vietnam. Network operators cooperate with Korea’s SKT to provide SIM packages at affordable prices. Buying a SIM card in Vietnam not only helps you save money but also ensures the safety of personal information. You can book a SIM card online through Klook without having to present your passport, helping to save waiting time when arriving in Korea.

Best-selling Korean SIM Cards on Klook

Klook is one of the reputable platforms that helps tourists easily search and buy Korean tourist SIM cards with many attractive offers. Explore these diverse SIM packages now to choose the perfect connection solution for yourself during your journey to explore the land of kimchi!

SKT 4G SIM Card for Korea

[LOCAL data] eSIM for South Korea with 4G/LTE Unlimited data (LG U+)

SKT 4G SIM Card provides a convenient and comprehensive connection solution when you travel to Korea.

SKT 4G SIM Card Product Information:

Validity: Optional from 1 to 30 days.
Internet speed: High-speed 4G/LTE.
Services include: Data SIM and calls, messages (can be recharged or not), and 4G SIM
without calls, messages
Data capacity: 1GB/day at 4G speed (up to 150Mbps) + Unlimited data at 5Mbps.
SIM size: Full Nano, Micro and Standard sizes, easily compatible with most devices.
Support connection sharing: Can be used as a hotspot.

eSIM South Korea 3-15Days Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB/3GB Unlimited 4G Data

Where to get a Korean 4G SIM from SKT Network:

When arriving at airports and seaports in Korea, you can easily get a SIM at SK Roaming Centers by presenting your voucher and passport.

Seoul:

Incheon Airport T1: 1st floor, between Exit 9 and Exit 10. Hours of operation: 06:00-22:00.
Incheon Airport T2: 1st floor, between Exit 2 and Exit 3. Open 24/7.
Gimpo Airport: 1st floor, Exit 1. Hours of operation: 06:30-23:00.

Busan:

Gimhae Airport: 1st floor, Gate 3. Hours of operation: 06:00-22:00.
Busan Harbor: 2nd floor, international terminal. Hours of operation: 06:30-19:30.

Daegu: Daegu Airport: 1st floor, next to Gate 1. Hours of operation: 06:00-22:00.

Jeju: Jeju Airport: 1st floor, Exit 5. Hours of operation: 09:00-19:00.

Korea 4G SIM Unlimited Data + T Money Card (LG U+)

4G SIM Card for South Korea from SKTelecom

The Korea 4G SIM Unlimited Data is an ideal choice for international travelers, allowing stable and unlimited Internet access nationwide. In addition, after installing the SIM, you can also use the SIM card as a T-Money card to pay for public transportation (with separate charges).

Product information Korea 4G SIM Unlimited Data + T Money Card (LG U+):

Validity period: 3-60 days, depending on the plan you choose.
Internet speed: 4G/LTE with 5mbps if exceeding 3GB per day.
Service type: Unlimited data, supports both calls and messages (requires additional top-up).
Supported networks: LG U+, nationwide coverage.
SIM size: Various – Mini, Micro, Nano.
Tethering: Can be used to share the network with other devices.

South Korea｜4G/5G eSIM (Buy and Get QR Code)

Location to pick up Korea 4G Unlimited Data SIM + T Money Card (LG U+):

You need to present your voucher, passport and boarding pass to pick up the SIM.

Seoul – Incheon International Airport

Terminal 1: LG U+ counter near Gate A (06:00 – 22:00) or Gate F (24 hours).
Terminal 2: LG U+ counter between Gates 4 and 5 (06:00 – 22:00) and between Gates 6 and 7 (00:00 – 23:59).
Supported languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese.

Gimpo International Airport

Location: LG U+ counter near Gate 1, operating from 06:30 – 23:00.
Note: No cash at this counter.

Busan – Gimhae International Airport

Location: LG U+ Counter between Gates 2 and 3, operating from 06:00 – 22:00.
Supported languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese.

KT Korea 4G Prepaid SIM

[FREE T-money] SIM Card for South Korea Unlimited Local Data (LG U+)

KT Olleh’s 4G Prepaid SIM is an ideal choice for visitors to Korea who need unlimited internet access and domestic calls and messages. The SIM supports powerful 4G/LTE speeds, allowing visitors to easily connect anywhere.

KT Korea 4G Prepaid SIM Product Information:

Validity: 3 to 30 days
Internet Speed: 4G/LTE
Data: Unlimited
Service Type: Internet Only or Including Domestic Calls and Texts
Coverage Area: All of Korea
SIM Size: Micro, Nano, Regular
Tethering: Yes, suitable for users who need to share data with other devices

KT Korea 4G Prepaid SIM Pickup Location:

When picking up the SIM, please bring your voucher and photo passport for quick check-in.

Incheon Airport, Seoul

Terminal 1: Arrival Hall, Level 1, near Arrival Hall A (06:00 – 22:00) and Arrival Hall F (24/24)
Terminal 2: Level 1, Gates 4-5, KT Roaming Center, open 24 hours a day

Gimpo International Airport, Seoul: Level 1, Gate 1 at the KT Roaming Center (06:30 – 23:00)

Gimhae International Airport, Busan: Level 1, Gate 3 at the KT Roaming Center (06:00 – 22:00)

Busan Port: Level 2, Gate 4 at the KT Roaming Center Opening Hours: Monday – Friday (10:30 – 19:30) and Saturday – Sunday (06:30 – 19:30)

4G SIM Card in Korea (Pick up at SGN Airport)

Ordering and receiving a Korean tourist SIM card right at Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) will be the right choice for you who want to connect to the Internet right after landing in Korea without having to spend time on procedures.

4G SIM Card Product Information in Korea (Pick Up at SGN Airport):

Duration of use: 5 to 15 days
Internet speed: 4G
Service: Internet only
Coverage area: All over Korea
SIM size: Nano, Micro, Mini (compatible with most phone models)

Terminal 3, Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN). source: baolaodong.vn | korea tourist sim card

4G SIM Card Pick Up Location in Korea (Pick Up at SGN Airport):

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

Mobifone booth, International Arrivals Hall
Hours of operation: Monday – Sunday, from 07:30 – 23:00

(*) Note: To ensure availability of SIM when ordering on the same day, please order at least 3 hours before the expected pick up time. When picking up the SIM, you need to present the order voucher to complete the procedure.

Best Korean eSIMS for tourists

eSIM for traveling to Korea is a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards, helping visitors connect to the Internet quickly without having to insert a SIM card. Just scan the QR code to activate it immediately. However, before purchasing an eSIM, double check to see if your phone supports eSIM.

Here are some popular Korean eSIMs on Klook that you can order and activate right away via QR code, saving you time.

KT Unlimited Data eSIM for Korea (QR Email)

Unlimited Data eSIMs for South korea (QR delivered via email) by KT

KT Telecom’s eSIM is the perfect solution for those who want to stay connected with unlimited data in Korea. This eSIM is suitable for users who need to use a lot of data and need to receive calls and messages within Korea.

KT Unlimited Data eSIM for Korea (QR Email) Product Information:

Duration of use: 3-30 days
Internet speed: 4G LTE
Service: Unlimited data + Incoming calls and messages
Coverage area: All over Korea
Tethering: Yes, supports sharing with other devices
Provider: KT Telecom

Korean 4G eSIM (Use Immediately with QR Code)

South Korea｜4G/5G eSIM (Buy and Get QR Code)

Korean 4G eSIM Product Information (Use Immediately with QR Code):

Validity: 1-30 days
Internet Speed: 4G
Service: Internet Only
Coverage Area: Korea
Data Limit: Fair Use Principle Apply; Speed Reduced to 128 kbps After Exceeding
Connection Sharing: Yes
Provider: SK Telecom / KT Telecom

Korea 4G eSIM With High-Speed Data (Get QR Code Immediately)

Korea 4G/5G eSIM card high-speed Internet access (buy and get QR code)

If you need Internet access for multiple purposes during your stay in Korea, then the high-speed Korea 4G eSIM is the choice you cannot ignore. With the ability to activate immediately via QR code, this eSIM ensures you can access the Internet quickly with large capacity.

Korea 4G eSIM With High-Speed Data (Get QR Code Now) Product Information:

Usage period: 1-30 days
Internet speed: 4G
Service: Internet only
Coverage area: All over Korea
Data limit: Reasonable usage principle applies; speed drops to 128 kbps after exceeding the limit
Provider: SK Telecom / KT Telecom

Instructions on How to Install and Activate a Korean Data SIM

If you are wondering how to install and use a data SIM when traveling to Korea, please refer to the detailed instructions below!

Instructions on Installing a Korean Travel SIM – Physical SIM

A physical Korean travel SIM is installed similarly to regular SIMs in Vietnam. First, check the SIM size that fits your device: mini, micro, or nano, then remove the plastic border to fit the SIM tray. After inserting the SIM, turn on mobile data to automatically activate the network.

How to enable mobile data with iOS (iPhone):

Step 1: Go to Settings
Step 2: Select Mobile
Step 3: In the Mobile Data section, slide the button to the right to enable

If the network is not activated, enable Data Roaming

How to enable mobile data with Android:

Step 1: Go to Settings
Step 2: Select SIM Management
Step 3: Select the newly installed SIM (SIM 1 or SIM 2)
Step 4: Press Network Mode
Step 5: Select LTE/4G/5G to complete

Instructions for Activating Korean eSIM

With eSIM, a QR code will be sent via email, you just need to scan the code to activate.

For iOS (iPhone):

Step 1: Go to Settings, select Mobile
Step 2: Press Add eSIM
Step 3: Scan the QR code or select Transfer from nearby iPhone if available
Step 4: After scanning the code, tap Add mobile plan

For Android operating system:

Step 1: Go to Settings, select Connections
Step 2: Select SIM Management and tap Add eSIM
Step 3: Scan the provider’s QR code and enter the activation code

(*) Note: After installing or activating the eSIM, turn on mobile data when arriving in Korea. If the SIM does not connect automatically, turn on Data Roaming or adjust the APN (access point name) according to the carrier’s instructions.

Some Notes When Buying and Using a Korean Tourist SIM

WOWPASS: Prepaid Card for Cashless Payment in Korea

When buying and using a Korean tourist SIM, there are some important points that you should note to ensure a stable connection and save costs throughout the trip:

Buy a SIM in Vietnam: For convenience when activating, you should buy a SIM in Vietnam first instead of buying it in Korea, because the price in Vietnam is often significantly cheaper.
Choose the right package and duration: Determine your usage needs in advance, including the length of stay and the required data capacity, to choose the appropriate SIM type and package to avoid waste.
Prepare a backup charger: Turning on 4G/5G mobile data regularly will drain the battery quickly, especially on Android devices, so you should bring a backup charger.
Choose a reputable supplier: Choose a SIM from reputable units with good reviews like Klook to avoid risky problems when using.

On your journey to explore the land of kimchi, a Korean tourist SIM is an indispensable “companion” for you. Search for interesting destinations, book in advance, connect with relatives and friends, and update photos on social networks extremely easily with a Korean 4G SIM. A tourist SIM not only brings convenience but also makes your journey more interesting, creating opportunities to explore and experience fully.

Add to cart your favorite Korean SIM card for your upcoming trip!

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