Are you planning to explore South Korea in depth? The, you need a reliable and affordable way to stay connected. On one hand, data roaming is generally convenient, but the price is quite steep. On the other hand, buying a physical SIM card is an option and may be cheaper. However, finding a trustworthy SIM vendor is far less convenient.
eSIMs bring the best of both worlds. They are as easy to use as data roaming and can be even cheaper than traditional SIMs.
Whether you’re a short-term traveler or planning a longer stay, I’ll provide you with the information you need to find the best eSIM for South Korea to suit your needs perfectly. Let’s dive into the top picks so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Choosing the right eSIM could be overwhelming since the market is brimming with hundreds of options. To make this process simpler, research and see what perks and features you can get from a provider. Some of these include tethering capability, coverage, cost, and so on. Then, compare the information you found with your personal must-haves in an eSIM for South Korea. The last phase is to purchase a plan that suits your comparison.
How We Rank eSIM Providers
While we strive to provide an objective ranking, our recommendations are grounded in thorough research and key factors such as:
Reliability
Network quality and consistency across different regions in Germany
Pricing
Value for money and competitive rates for data packages
User Ratings
Customer satisfaction and reviews from real travelers
Ease of Use
Simplicity of activation, app interface, and setup process
Extra Features
Additional benefits like tethering, multi-device support, and customer service
📌 Note: Prices and features may change, so we always recommend checking the latest details on the provider's official website before purchasing.
Best eSIM providers for South Korea
I will help you walk through this process one step at a time. So first, let’s start getting to know the best options I curated for South Korea below. Below, you'll find seven eSIM providers, and I reviewed them based on the criteria of network and coverage, plan variety and prices, and reviews.
Airalo
Best for regional coverage
Networks
3G, 4G LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
If your destination has multiple checkpoints besides South Korea, Airalo is a great choice. They offer local, regional, and global plan options, and for South Korea, you get the most value from regional plans. With a regional plan – say you are traveling to Japan on your way to South Korea – you don’t need to buy a separate eSIM for Japan. Besides, Airalo covers 200+ countries and destinations worldwide and is one of the most popular providers out there. Here are more details:
Network and coverage. With Airalo, users can connect to any type of network, including 5G. However, the device model and real-time location affect which network you connect to. For instance, you might experience 3G connectivity in remote areas of South Korea but reach LTE and 5G speeds in big cities.
Plans variety and prices. While Airalo usually has a great diversity of plans, its “LG U+” bundle for South Korea has only 2 plans. Both plans offer unlimited data; however, one is valid for 10 days and the other for 30. As for the prices, the unlimited data plan that’s valid for 10 days costs $32, while the one with 30-day validity costs $62. If local plans don’t suit you, be sure to check out their regional plans. However, keep in mind that since regional plans offer broader coverage, it might not be worth it if your only destination is South Korea.
User reviews. Airalo has mixed reviews on review platforms. On Trustpilot, in particular, the provider has a 2.4-star rating. According to user comments, people appreciated the high quality of the connection. Another point of praise was Airalo’s app, which users found convenient and easy to navigate. On the other hand, negative reviews mostly mentioned technical issues with eSIMs and customer support being slow to respond.
Pros
- ✓ Worldwide coverage
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Tethering is available
- ✓ Regional, global, and local plan variety
- ✓ Unlimited data plans
Cons
- • Limited variety of plans for South Korea
- • Expensive prices
Holafly
Unlimited data for travelers
Networks
3G, 4G LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
Next up, Holafly — and I have a good reason to include Holafly in this list because they’ve got quite the proposition. The provider offers only unlimited plans across 200+ countries and destinations worldwide. On top of the unlimited plans, they allow you to customize the duration of your eSIM plan. Whether you need data for a week or 66 days (precisely), you can comfortably adjust the validity for your own convenience.
Network and coverage. Holafly covers 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G networks. While it covers 5G in most places, unfortunately, the 5G network is not available in South Korea at the moment. Although, Holafly has decent coverage in South Korea. However, as with every eSIM, it depends on your device model and exact location.
Plans variety and prices. Holafly’s unlimited data plan, valid for just one day, costs $6.90. If you want to extend the validity period, be prepared for some expensive pricing down the line. Also, keep in mind that tethering is limited to a few GBs daily, and Holafly applies a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) across their unlimited plans, which slows down data speed after a few GBs of usage. However, the limit resets daily and doesn’t carry over to the next day.
User reviews. Holafly received a lot of praise on review platforms. According to users’ experiences, customer support and its replies were among the notable mentions. Most people found that the Holafly eSIM was convenient and easy to use. Meanwhile, pricing, the unlimited plans having FUP, and the limited tethering were the most mentioned negatives.
Pros
- ✓ Flexible validity selection
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Offers unlimited data plans
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Plans are expensive
- • No limited data plans
Nomad
A variety of eSIM plans for South Korea
Networks
4G LTE, 5G
Countries
190+
If you are looking for a provider with a variety of local plans, Nomad could be the one for you. It’s generally a well-liked provider by travelers who are looking for a range of data allocation options for their trips. Even if you slip up and don’t select the best deal for yourself, Nomad’s easy top-up lets you stay connected at all times.
Network and coverage. Nomad usually supports 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G networks. However, in South Korea, the only supported connectivity type is 4G. As for the coverage, Nomad extends to over 190 countries and territories around the globe.
Plans variety and prices. For South Korea, Nomad has 7 plans in total. One of the seven supports a 5G connection; however, since the network mainly supports 4G connectivity, the 5G connection mentioned in the plan may vary. That said, the rest of the plans offer data allocations from 1 GB up to 20 GB, with validity periods ranging from 7 days to 30 or 45 days. The cheapest eSIM plan for South Korea costs $6, includes 1 GB of data, and is valid for 7 days.
User reviews. According to people’s experiences, Nomad eSIM meets expectations. Most users were happy with coverage and costs. However, common feedback concerns some of the app features that are lacking. For example, most users were unhappy with not being able to track their data consumption and had to resort to their device settings.
Pros
- ✓ Good worldwide coverage
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Seven local plans for South Korea
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Limited validity period options
- • No traditional call minutes and text messages
Saily
Straightforward eSIM for travel
Networks
3G, 4G LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
First time with eSIMs? Then, Saily could be the provider you’re looking for. With its user-friendly app and straightforward activation, it’s best for travelers looking for a quick and easy solution. Saily promises reliable and consistent connections. With Saily, you connect to the best network available due to its partnerships with multiple operators in 200+ countries and destinations. If you want to learn more about it, check out my Saily review.
Network and coverage. In South Korea, you can connect to all kinds of networks with Saily. However, keep in mind that the connection types supporting faster network speeds are only achievable if your device is compatible. For example, you wouldn’t be able to connect to 5G if your device isn’t compatible.
Plans’ variety and prices. With Saily, you can choose from 5 plans for South Korea. Plans’ data start with 1 GB and go up to 20 GB. The duration of the plans usually depends on the amount of data, and it can change from 7 days to 30 days. The cheapest eSIM plan you can get from Saily for South Korea includes a GB of data that you can use for a week — and it costs $3.99.
User reviews. According to reviews, users liked Saily because of its responsive and solution-oriented attitude. Many positive reviews also mentioned good coverage in overall regions. On the other hand, some negative reviews mentioned weak signals in certain countries.
Pros
- ✓ Switching plans don’t require a reinstall
- ✓ 24/7 responsive customer support
- ✓ Top-up available
- ✓ Pocket-friendly prices
- ✓ Allows tethering
Cons
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
- • No unlimited data plans
JetPac
Budget-friendly eSIM
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
150+
Don’t have much of a budget left after buying plane tickets to South Korea? Try Jetpac. Not only do they have budget-friendly prices, but they also offer a membership program that offers unique perks and benefits for frequent flyers. The membership includes monthly airport lounge access, an eSIM with a global data plan, and more.
Network and coverage. The provider supports 3G, 4G, LTE, and even 5G connectivity — depending on your exact location. As for coverage, Jetpac doesn’t cover as many countries and territories compared to its competitors. However, it still offers decent coverage in many destinations.
Plans variety and prices. With Jetpac, you can select from 6 different data plans for South Korea. Data allocation ranges from 1 GB to 20 GB, with validity periods spanning 4 to 30 days. The cheapest eSIM plan costs $4, which includes 1 GB of data but is only valid for 4 days.
User reviews. The overall reviews online for Jetpac show that users seem to be having a good experience with the service. Many positive comments mention that it was easy to install, activate, and use Jetpac. On the other hand, signal issues and technical problems were notable concerns that people shared.
Pros
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Flexible plan selection
- ✓ Variety of network types available
- ✓ Decent coverage
- ✓ Supports tethering
Cons
- • More expensive pricing compared to similar providers
- • Might not be suitable for short-term travelers
GigSky
Free data trial for travelers
Networks
4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
If you don’t want to commit to a provider just yet and are out there to try an eSIM, GigSky could be a great option. They offer free MBs for a trial in South Korea — and who doesn’t love freebies? They don’t ask for any credit card information, and you can just get the free 100 MB plan and try GigSky for 7 days.
Network and coverage. With GigSky, you can connect to 4G, LTE, and 5G networks in South Korea. Even if your device supports 5G, the network availability might change throughout the day, so be prepared for that. GigSky’s coverage is quite vast, providing eSIMs for 200+ countries and destinations around the globe.
Plans variety and prices. Excluding the free plan, GigSky offers 4 plans for South Korea. All plans have different validity periods, ranging from 7 days to 15 or 30 days. The validity period usually increases with the amount of data. That said, the cheapest plan costs $4.99, includes 1 GB of data, and is valid for a week.
User reviews. Despite its popularity, GigSky’s online reviews are mixed. Users generally find it easy to use and hassle-free. Many wished that all local plans included unlimited data, as unlimited plans are only available in select locations. However, there were complaints about the unlimited plans as well. For example, some users noted a lack of transparency regarding the Fair Usage Policy.
Pros
- ✓ Free data trial without commitment
- ✓ Flexible plans
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
- ✓ Unlimited data plans
- ✓ Competitive prices
Cons
- • Unlimited plans aren’t available in every local plan
- • Slower speeds in some areas
Yesim
Flexible travel plans
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
If flexibility is your main concern, then Yesim has got you covered. With Yesim, users can choose from local, regional, and global plans. Whether you’re after unlimited data plans with varying validity periods or standard plans that provide fast and reliable internet, there’s a plan to fit your needs. But that’s not all they offer. To learn more about Yesim, check out my in-depth Yesim review.
Network and coverage. Yesim supports 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G connectivity. In South Korea, Yesim partners with SK Telecom to provide 5G coverage nationwide. However, 5G availability depends on your device and location.
Plans variety and prices. There are 8 plans available for travelers to South Korea. Some of these are unlimited plans, while the rest are standard plans. For the unlimited data plans, you can choose a validity period ranging from 1 to 30 days. The standard plans offer data amounts from 3 GB to 20 GB. The cheapest unlimited plan costs $7.70, while the 3 GB plan from the standard bundle is priced at $14.30. Both plans are valid for one week.
User reviews. Yesim has high ratings on platforms like Trustpilot. According to the reviews, users appreciate the variety of plans it offers and the fast connection it provides. Although Yesim transparently states that unlimited plans are subject to the Fair Usage Policy, many users have complained about the speed reductions on these plans, which they feel are unfair.
Pros
- ✓ Flexible plans
- ✓ Unlimited data available
- ✓ Supports tethering without daily caps
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Local, regional, and global bundles
Cons
- • Relatively expensive
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
Comparison table of plans for South Korea
| Provider | Countries covered | Starting price | Validity period | 24/7 customer support | Tethering | Unlimited data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo |
🌍 200+
|
for unlimited GB) | 10 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Holafy |
🌍 200+
|
$6.90 (for unlimited GB) | 1 day | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Nomad |
🌍 190+
|
$6 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| Saily |
🌍 180+
|
$3.99 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| JetPac |
🌍 150+
|
$4 (for 1 GB) | 4 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | − No |
| GigSky |
🌍 200+
|
$8.99 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | − No | ✓ Yes | − No |
| Yesim |
🌍 200+
|
$10 (for 3 GB) | 7 days | − No | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find helpful information to answer common questions about eSIMs in South Korea
Are eSIMs safe to use in South Korea?
Are eSIMs really better than regular SIMs in South Korea?
Are eSIMs free for South Korea?
Can an eSIM be used for calling from South Korea?
Can I use 5G with an eSIM in South Korea?
How to choose the best eSIM for travel in South Korea
When selecting a South Korea eSIM, you should keep a few considerations in mind. The key tip I can give you is to make a personal pros and cons list, just as I mentioned at the beginning of this article. Assess how much data you will need first, then ask yourself — What is your budget? What extra features are you looking for in an eSIM?
Once you have your list at hand, choosing an eSIM plan or provider will be a much easier process.
Below, I prepared a breakdown of some of the essential things you need to consider when choosing the best eSIM for your travel. Remember, the list I made is not the only measure but a foundation you can build upon.
Compatibility
Compatibility either makes or breaks this process. Before jumping on the wagon, you need to make sure that your device is compatible with eSIMs. Most newly released devices support eSIM technology, yet there might be exceptions due to regional strategies. If you are unsure whether your device is compatible, check with your manufacturer for the most accurate information.
Besides device compatibility, you should also consider whether the eSIM provider or plan is a good fit for your destination. You should also check the plan or provider’s coverage for the countries or territories you are traveling to.
Cost
eSIMs are generally much more cost-effective than other international communication solutions. For example, if you were to use data roaming in South Korea, depending on your service provider, you could end up paying hundreds of dollars.
One cheap alternative to eSIMs could be local SIMs. However, finding a reliable vendor, registering, and setting up a traditional local SIM is also costly. Here, cost doesn’t refer to the price but the time you spend. In that aspect, eSIMs still have no contender among the alternatives.
Whether you rely on a set budget or have extra bucks to spend, you don’t want to overpay for an eSIM either. To avoid this, you need to evaluate the value you will get compared to the price the provider is asking you to pay. While you’re at it, check what people say about the activation process and whether it’s easy or not.
Data
Another factor to keep in mind is the amount of data you plan to use. If you are streaming videos, watching live shows, and downloading a lot, consider larger plans packed with a couple of extra GBs. On the other hand, those who use data for browsing or minimal internet usage can opt for smaller data plans.
If you want to go the extra mile, check your data consumption month over month. Many South Korea internet providers and mobile network operators offer tools that show your monthly data usage. You can also find which apps consume the most data in your device settings. This way, you understand your habits and choose a plan that ensures you don’t spend more than necessary on your data needs.
Buying and activating an eSIM for South Korea
If you successfully assessed your needs and decided to go with a plan, there is only one thing left to do — get your plan and activate it for your trip. Although providers may have different purchasing and activation processes, the vast majority of eSIM setups are pretty straightforward and similar.
- Check compatibility. Doing all the research and selecting a plan only to be disappointed because your devices are not compatible with the technology is not the best scenario. Always double-check the compatibility, then proceed with your purchase.
- Choose a plan and purchase. Considering you followed my guide all the way through, you should have an idea of which plan to go with. Stick to your decision and go to the app or website of your chosen provider to purchase the plan. Once you complete the purchase, your provider should email you a QR code or string code for activation.
- Activate your eSIM before your trip. The activation process most often requires you to be connected to the internet. Avoid leaving things to the last minute, and activate your plan right before your trip. To do that, go to your device’s settings, scan the QR code, or enter the activation code manually, and follow the instructions to complete the final step.
Additional options for Internet in South Korea
While eSIMs offer great convenience and lower costs, there are still other alternatives. For example, local prepaid SIM cards are available at most airports and stores. Pocket WiFi rentals are quite popular for their portability, too. In addition, free WiFi spots are scattered around cafes, malls, and other public spaces.
Depending on your needs — whether it’s staying connected for a few days or needing something for your entire trip, each option has its ups and downs. Let’s get more into detail about these alternatives:
Local prepaid SIM
Local prepaid SIM cards are the first alternative to using the internet in South Korea. Options are available at major airports and retail stores around the city. Depending on your needs, you can find a range of South Korea SIM cards with different data allowances.
However, keep in mind that you might need to go through a registration process, which can be a bit more time-consuming than simply activating an eSIM. So, while prepaid SIM cards can work well for short trips, they might not be as convenient as eSIMs in terms of speed and ease.
Pocket WiFi rental
Renting a pocket WiFi device in South Korea can be another option, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. The device allows multiple devices to connect at once, so everyone can stay online without fighting for WiFi.
You can rent them at the airport or even book them online for pick-up. The downside? They can get a bit pricey since the daily rental price accumulates depending on how many days you plan to rent. Plus, you’ll need to return the device before leaving — there’s a little more hassle involved. But if you need consistent, high-speed internet on the go, this is an option you can explore.
Free WiFi
Nowadays, it’s not hard to find a place that isn’t loaded with free WiFi spots, and South Korea isn’t an exception. From cafes and shopping malls to public spaces like parks, it’s possible to find a free-of-charge network to connect. These spots can be extremely convenient. Say that you are giving a coffee break for a couple of hours — free Wi-Fi can help you save data.
Yet, it’s a good idea to be cautious since free WiFi networks are often unsecured networks. If you can connect, that means anyone can — which makes it easier for hackers to intercept your data. So, while it’s great for browsing or checking emails, try to avoid things like online banking or shopping while on these networks.
Final thoughts
In the end, the ideal eSIM is the one that fulfills all your needs during your trip to South Korea. Whether you are after budget-friendly prices, flexible plans, validity, or even responsive support, there is an eSIM provider for you.
To make a well-informed decision, do your research and check out the best providers that I reviewed for South Korea. Before selecting a provider, consider how long you will be staying in South Korea and estimate your data usage.
After you do the hard work and select and get a plan for your provider, it’s all left for you to enjoy your trip. When you don’t have to worry about your connection, the experience you will indulge in will be much more enjoyable.