Compare the best eSIM plans for South Korea
Internet from the moment you land in South Korea
- Instant activation
- iPhone and Android compatible
- From 0,71 €
- 4500+ plans compared
0,71 €
Cheapest plan
4500+
South Korea plans compared
29+
Providers available
5G
Network supported
Best eSIM deals for South Korea
See all offers →eSIM for South Korea at a glance
Average price
13 €
For 5 GB / 30 days
Plan duration
1 to 30 days
Depending on the plan
Local networks
KT, SK Telecom, LG U+
Ultra-fast 5G
VPN needed?
No
All Western services work normally
Hotspot tethering
Available
On most plans
Compatibility
iPhone XS+ / Android 8.0+
Check your device
Internet in South Korea: everything you need to know
South Korea is the most connected country in the world, with internet penetration above 97% and one of the best 5G footprints on the planet (source: ITU DataHub, 2024). The three national carriers (KT, SK Telecom, LG U+) have rolled out 5G across every major city and along all KTX lines. A South Korea eSIM gets you onto this network the moment you land at Incheon, with no physical card swap.
- ●5G coverage in every major city (Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon) and along KTX lines.
- ●Average mobile download speeds around 130 to 160 Mbps per Ookla (Q1 2025), among the fastest in the world.
- ●Perfect for the Korean apps you cannot avoid: KakaoTalk, KakaoMap, Naver Maps, Papago, KakaoT.
- ●Seoul metro fully covered in 5G, including the tunnels.
Sources: Internet Society Pulse — South Korea, ITU DataHub — South Korea statistics, Ookla Speedtest Global Index
Device compatibility
eSIM is built into every iPhone XS and later, as well as Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 3a+ and most high-end Motorola, Oppo, Sony and Xiaomi models.
Not sure about your device? Check compatibility here.
How to install your eSIM for South Korea
- 1. Compare offers on https://www.datadopt.com/en/compare/kr
- 2. Browse our partners' eSIM offers and choose the data volume and duration that fit your trip.
- 3. Purchase the eSIM plan that best fits your needs on our partner's site.
- 4. Receive a QR code by email after purchase.
- 5. Before you leave or during your stay, add the eSIM to your smartphone (Note: a stable Wi-Fi connection may be required during this step.)
- 5.1. On iPhone: Settings > Mobile Data > Add Plan > Scan the QR code
- 5.2. On Android: Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add a mobile plan
- 6. Once you arrive, turn on the data of your eSIM and enjoy reliable internet in South Korea.
Frequently asked questions
Do eSIMs really work in South Korea?
Yes. The vast majority of international eSIMs connect to KT or SK Telecom the moment you land at Incheon. The country offers one of the best mobile experiences in the world.
Do I need a VPN in South Korea?
No. All Western services (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, X, YouTube) work normally.
Can I keep my home phone number?
Yes. The South Korea eSIM installs alongside your main line. You keep your home number for SMS and calls while using the eSIM for mobile data on the ground.
What's the best eSIM for Seoul or Busan?
Both cities have full 5G coverage. For a short trip (≤ 7 days) a 3 to 5 GB plan is enough. For 2 weeks with heavy use of maps, translation and local apps, target 10 to 20 GB.
Does Google Maps work in South Korea?
Only partially (no walking or driving routes on most of the territory, due to Korean regulatory restrictions). Use Naver Maps or KakaoMap: both are free and natively work with your eSIM.
Can I share my connection with other devices?
Most South Korea eSIM plans allow hotspot tethering. The detail appears on each plan page on Datadopt.
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Ready to stay connected in South Korea?
Compare the best eSIM offers and enjoy data the moment you arrive, at the best price.