eSIM data plans for South Korea

South Korea's plans split two ways. Fixed data plans run on LG Uplus or SK Telecom, from a 1GB week up to a 50GB month, and give a set amount of data to use as needed. Unlimited plans run on SK Telecom only, sold by the day rather than by size, from a single day up to a full month.

Picking a fixed data plan

The fixed data plans scale with trip length as much as with data use. The 1GB plan, valid 7 days, suits a short visit with light use such as messaging and maps. The 3GB and 5GB plans, valid 15 and 30 days, suit anyone posting photos or navigating daily. The 10GB, 20GB and 50GB plans, all valid 30 days, suit longer stays or heavier use such as video calls and streaming. If the data runs out before the trip ends, a top-up on the same eSIM restores it without starting over.

Picking an unlimited plan

The unlimited plans are priced by the day, so the choice comes down to how many days of the trip call for heavy, steady use. A single day suits an arrival or one big outing; the 3 and 5 day plans suit a short break; the 7, 10 and 15 day plans suit a full week or two; the 30 day plan covers a month without tracking data at all. Each includes a fair use policy, where speed is reduced for the rest of the day past a daily amount.

Hotspot and buying ahead

Every plan, fixed data or unlimited, allows hotspot and tethering, so a laptop or a second device can share the connection. Validity begins the first time the eSIM connects to a network in South Korea, not at purchase or installation, so it can be installed well before departure without losing any days.

Before you fly

Most visa-free visitors to South Korea also need to apply for K-ETA, an online travel authorization, at least 72 hours before boarding, through the official K-ETA website.