Getting a SIM Card and Phone Number in Korea
Prepaid, postpaid, budget carriers and eSIM: what each one needs, why a number in your own name matters, and a simple plan for your first week.
A Korean phone number is one of the first things you need. Schools, employers, banks and delivery drivers all use it. You can start with a prepaid SIM on day one and switch to a better plan later.
Your options
- Prepaid SIM: your passport is enough. You can buy one at airport counters, some convenience stores, or online with delivery or airport pickup.
- Postpaid plan: usually needs your ARC and a bank account or card for the monthly bill. Plans often come with a contract, and early cancellation fees may apply.
- Budget carriers (MVNO, 알뜰폰): they use the big networks but offer cheaper plans. Check which documents they accept from foreigners.
- eSIM: if your phone supports it, you can get a plan without a physical SIM card.
| Option | Documents | Korean number | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid SIM | Passport | Usually yes (some are data only) | Your first days and weeks | Validity period, top-up method |
| Postpaid plan | ARC + bank account or card (usually) | Yes | Long stays | Contract length, early cancellation fees |
| Budget carrier (MVNO) | Depends on the carrier | Yes | Saving money | Check foreign-language support |
| eSIM | Depends on the plan | Some plans only | Phones that support eSIM | Data-only plans have no Korean number |
Why a number in your own name matters
Many Korean services check who you are by sending a code to a phone number in your name (본인인증, identity verification). Banks, delivery and shopping sites, and some government websites use it. A number in someone else’s name usually won’t work for this.
Your first week
- 1
Day 1: get connected
Buy a prepaid SIM or an eSIM at the airport, or pick up the SIM you ordered online. Write down your new number.
- 2
Share your number
Give your new number to your school or employer and to your housing contact.
- 3
Apply for your ARC
If you stay in Korea for more than 90 days, you must apply for alien registration within 90 days of entry. Book a visit on HiKorea.
- 4
Open a bank account
Open an account with your passport (or with your ARC once you have it). You will need it for a postpaid plan.
- 5
Choose a long-term plan
Compare postpaid and budget carrier plans. Check the contract length and fees before you sign.
Official sources
Written by KOVIA 편집팀
