9 Best and Cheapest eSIMs for Internet Data in South Korea During Your Travels

Exploring new destinations is amazing, but who enjoys wasting time in lines to get a local SIM card? Luckily, there’s an innovative solution that will transform your travels: eSIMs. Let’s dive deeper into this digital realm and understand why having an eSIM can make all the difference in enhancing your journeys.

Think of it this way: picture that tiny chip in your phone that holds all your SIM card information. Now, imagine it without the physical form. That’s the eSIM—basically a digital version of your SIM card that’s smoothly integrated into your device. No more dealing with those traditional chips, it’s like having an invisible but super handy SIM card right in your phone.

As we wrap up here, we’ve put together a detailed list comparing the top eSIM options out there, focusing on both quality and affordability. Take a look and see which one suits your travel requirements best! 🌐✨  

 

 

What is eSIM?

Think of eSIM as your all-in-one solution to SIM cards—it’s like having an integrated SIM card right in your device. Instead of fiddling with physical cards, you can activate your carrier plan directly from your device settings. Simple, right?

This tech upgrade offers flexibility galore. Now you can switch between carriers hassle-free, no more digging around for that tiny card. It’s a game-changer for jet-setters, letting you easily hop onto local networks wherever you roam.

And it’s not just for phones and watches; eSIM is a big hit in IoT gadgets too. It’s the magic behind machines connecting to networks without needing a physical SIM. Perfect for those sleek, compact devices we can’t live without. It’s another step towards a smoother, more connected world!✨📲 

 

Is it possible to buy a SIM card in South Korea as a tourist?

Absolutely, it’s entirely feasible for tourists to acquire a SIM card in South Korea. Each nation boasts its own array of mobile service providers, so chip availability may fluctuate. Nonetheless, locating prepaid options from multiple operators is generally straightforward.

Among the prominent carriers in South Korea catering to tourists’ mobile needs are:

   1. SK Telecom: Renowned as one of South Korea’s premier mobile service providers, SK Telecom offers a range of prepaid SIM card choices tailored for tourists.

   2. KT Corporation (formerly Korea Telecom): Another key player in the South Korean telecom landscape, KT Corporation provides prepaid SIM cards designed with tourists in mind.

   3. LG Uplus: For travelers seeking additional options when purchasing a SIM card in South Korea, LG Uplus presents another viable choice.

These operators usually have stands at airports, main railway stations and shopping centers, ensuring convenient access for tourists looking to purchase SIM cards and receive assistance in setting up their devices. It is advisable to have your passport as it may be needed for registration purposes when purchasing a SIM card in South Korea.

Prepaid SIM cards usually come with an initial credit for calls, texts and internet. Remember to compare the available plan options to select the one that best aligns with your needs during your visit to South Korea.

Still, when purchasing a local SIM card in South Korea as a tourist, you need to be aware of possible limitations. Firstly, your phone’s compatibility with local chips may vary, requiring compatibility checks with South Korean carrier networks.

Additionally, the costs of this service in South Korea can be relatively high, and certain regulations may prevent the sale of SIM cards to tourists.

So, opting for an eSIM remains a more practical, cheaper and easier alternative. By using an eSIM, you can easily connect to local operators without the need for a physical SIM card, enjoying greater flexibility while avoiding concerns about your phone’s compatibility.

 

How do you know if your cell phone is compatible with eSIM?

If your smartphone was manufactured after 2018, there’s a strong chance that it is compatible with eSIM!

For iPhone users, go to Settings > General > About and confirm the availability of the “No SIM Restrictions” option.

For Android phone users, go to Settings > Network & Internet > eSIM.

If everything looks good, you can effortlessly utilize an eSIM!

The iPhones XS, XS Max, and XR are among the early models to support eSIM, introduced in 2018.

Below are some of the latest models currently equipped with eSIM functionality:

– iPhone 12
– iPhone 12 Pro
– iPhone 12 Mini
– iPhone 12 Pro Max
– iPhone 13
– iPhone 13 Pro
– iPhone 13 Mini
– iPhone 13 Pro Max
– iPhone SE 3 (2022)
– iPhone 14
– iPhone 14 Pro
– iPhone 14 Plus
– iPhone 14 Pro Max

You can also use eSIMs on the following iPads:

– iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068 onwards)
– iPad Air (model A2123 onwards)
– iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069 onwards)
– iPad (model A2198 onwards)
– iPad 10th generation (2022)
– iPad Mini (model A2124 onwards)

When it comes to Android devices, it’s a good idea to reach out to the manufacturer to double-check if your device is eSIM-ready. Compatibility depends on things like the specific model, where it was made, and which carrier you’re using.

If you want to do a quick check yourself, head to your phone’s Settings, then look for “Network & Internet.” Tap on that and see if you spot anything about “eSIM Cards.” If you see an option like “Download a SIM instead?” popping up, that’s a good sign your device can handle eSIMs.

You can also dig a bit deeper by checking for something called an EID, which is basically a serial number tied to the eSIM in your phone. Just dial *#06# and hit call. If your phone’s eSIM-ready, you’ll see that EID number pop up.

Now, onto the fun part: some Android smartphones that ace the eSIM game include:

 

– Samsung Galaxy S21 models
– Samsung Galaxy S22 models
– Samsung Galaxy Note 20
– Samsung Galaxy Fold Series
– Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series
– Samsung Galaxy S23 models
– Google Pixel 7
– Google Pixel 6
– Google Pixel 4
– Google Pixel Fold
– Google Pixel 3 XL
-Huawei P40 series
– Oppo Reno 5A
– Oppo Find X5
– Sony Xperia 1 V
– Xiaomi 13 Series
– Sony Xperia 10 III Lite
– Motorola Edge+
– Motorola Razr 2019

Hey there! Just a heads-up, this list isn’t exhaustive, but it does include some of the most popular smartphones that work with eSIMs. If you don’t spot your phone’s model year here, it’s best to reach out directly to your phone’s manufacturer for details on compatibility.

 

7 Benefits That Make eSIMs Essential for Travel

 

   1. Effortless Setup:

Say goodbye to the hassle of trekking to local stores. With eSIMs, setting up is a breeze and all done online, right from the comfort of your device. Activating an eSIM is a piece of cake. Once you’ve picked your favorite carrier, just dive into your device settings, find the eSIM option, and follow the carrier’s lead to get connected. No more juggling physical cards!

   2. Future Upgrades:

Stay ahead of the curve in the era of connectivity. Without being tied down by physical cards, your phone can slim down or pack in more battery power. Say hello to more space! eSIMs are ready to embrace new tech and services, keeping you in the loop with the latest trends and communication innovations.

   3. Sustainable Practices in Action:

Do your part for the planet. With eSIMs, there’s no need for tons of plastic cards that just end up in the trash after a short stint of use, promoting eco-friendliness!

   4. Universal 5G Connectivity:

eSIMs are on track to shake up the connectivity game, making it possible for even gadgets like glasses or fitness trackers to dive into 5G tech.

   5. Financial Perks:

Beyond just making life easier, eSIMs also save you some cash. Say goodbye to those pesky international roaming charges and hello to picking plans that fit your travel budget better. A smart move for those who value efficiency and savings.

   6. Compatibility with Smart Gadgets:

Don’t limit yourself to smartphones only. eSIMs play nice with all sorts of smart devices, from Apple Watches to tablets and more! Expand your connectivity beyond just your phone.

   7. Digital Convenience:

Skip the lines and high prices at airport shops around the globe! By getting your eSIM online, you can streamline the process and speed things up. Plus, in some spots, SIM cards aren’t available to folks who aren’t locals, making things even trickier for travelers. With an eSIM, you’re set for internet access wherever your adventures take you!

 

Why Use eSIMs Instead of a Physical SIM?

 

• Switch Operators Effortlessly:

If you’re someone who’s always on the go or hopping between countries, being able to switch operators without the hassle of physically swapping out your SIM card is a game-changer! Thanks to eSIMs, this smooth transition is now a reality.

 

• Prioritize Safety:

Lost your phone? No need to panic over losing your SIM card and your precious number along with it. With eSIMs snugly integrated into your device, you’ve got an extra layer of security. They’re rarely lost or removed without your say-so, giving you peace of mind, especially in those nerve-wracking moments of loss or theft.

 

• Activate When Needed, Dodge Pricey Roaming Fees:

With the ability to store up to eight eSIMs on your phone, you can activate them whenever you need to, without worrying about getting hit with sky-high roaming charges. It’s a dream come true for frequent travelers!

 

• Potential Limitations:

Let’s keep it real about possible downsides. Some devices might have compatibility quirks, and not every carrier is fully on board with eSIM support. That’s why it’s crucial to ask about any limitations from your chosen carrier to make sure you’re making informed decisions.

 

The 9 Best and Cheaper eSIM Options to Use in South Korea

Take your pick from a wide array of plan choices, ranging from daily packages to all-inclusive data plans. This lets you tailor your expenses and pick the data amount that’s just right for you! Plus, you can compare the pros and cons of each company right here, helping you find the one that matches your needs perfectly! 

 

   1. Airalo 

As a leading figure in the eSIM industry, Airalo is renowned for providing a trustworthy service and competitive prices. Particularly designed for European journeys (though it always work great in South Korea!), Airalo has positioned itself as a dependable option for individuals seeking worldwide connectivity without the complexities linked to physical SIM cards.

Get US$3 off your first purchase with the discount coupom code RODRIG1231

Pros:

• Wide coverage in approximately 200 countries;
• Flexible and customizable plans for all users;
• Affordable cost;

 

Cons:

• Most packages do not include voice minutes;
• A little expensive in Africa;

 

 

 

   2. Maya Mobile

Operating in the market since 2015, Maya Mobile distinguishes itself as a global choice, headquartered in the USA. In addition to competitive pricing, its user-friendly web interface and compatibility with APPLE Pay contribute to its appeal.

Offering unlimited plans and features like auto-recharge and activation scheduling, Maya Mobile emerges as a preferred choice for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility.

Pros:

• It has coverage in more than 100 countries;
• It has prepaid plans and unlimited plans with a fixed monthly price;
• Instant activation;

Cons:

• It does not have coverage in many African and Middle Eastern countries;
• No live customer support;

 

 

   3. Global Yo

Global YO is the perfect option for those who want a smooth travel experience, providing reliable connectivity and several extra benefits. With coverage in more than 190 countries, Global YO stands out for its innovative features and competitive prices, ensuring that you are always connected, wherever you are.

Pros:

• Você pode usar em mais de 190 países;
• Oferece vários pacotes de dados flexíveis
• Includes AI-generated city guides with celebrity insights, access to 500+ independent films, personalized travel tips, and unlimited rewards.

Cons:

• Most packages do not include voice minutes.
• May be more expensive in some regions

 

 

   4. AloSIM

AloSIM is an online platform providing data plans in 169 countries utilizing eSIM technology. This platform allows users to acquire local or regional eSIMs and offers a diverse array of short-term plans.

Established in 2022, AloSIM has rapidly gained popularity as a leading eSIM provider, acclaimed for its cost-effective plans.

Pros:

• Supports data sharing;
• Useful data calculator;
• Reliable and transparent local network service;

Cons:

• No phone plan or SMS;
• There is no plan with an unlimited period;

 

 

 

   5. Breeze

Introducing an effective solution, Zephyr eSIM provides top-notch mobile connectivity in over 150 countries, including South Korea. This allows you to top up as needed and retain complete oversight of your expenses, preventing any unforeseen charges on your account upon your return.

 

 

Starting with plans as short as 7 days and including 1GB of data, Zephyr eSIM offers immediate convenience for your connectivity needs during your worldwide adventures.

Pros:

• Multi-network coverage in many countries, ensuring constant connectivity wherever there is a signal;
• Multilingual support;
• You can reuse the eSIM up to 12 months after the last use;

Cons:

• It is not very popular on the market, lacking reviews;

 

 

   6. Nomad

Aside from catering to individual eSIM users, Nomad distinguishes itself by providing a tailored solution for employees embarking on international business travels.

With Nomad, you can effectively distribute eSIMs among your staff, track data usage in real-time, and streamline coordination by effortlessly accessing invoices for your finance department.

Pros:

• Easy app for beginners;
• The best configuration and installation process;
• No hidden costs;

Cons:

• No live chat support;

 

 

  7. Holafly

Holafly assures to offer peace of mind and worldwide connectivity, enabling travelers to procure data plans for any destination directly from their home countries.

With 24/7 global support and an uncomplicated eSIM activation process, the company reiterates its dedication to environmental stewardship.

Pros:

• Payment can be made in Euros, US dollars or Mexican pesos;
• Most eSIMs offer unlimited data;
• Useful features such as in-app expiration tracking;

Cons:

• Does not support data sharing;
• One of the most expensive options on the market;

 

 

   8. Esimatic

Esimatic stands out as an affordable and convenient choice for those who want to stay connected when traveling to South Korea without the high roaming costs. With a variety of eSIM packages, the company offers global coverage without the need to swap physical SIM cards.

Pros:

– Coverage in several countries, covering Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Oceania and the Americas;
– Flexible and affordable plans for different needs;
– Quick and simple activation via QR code;
– 24-hour customer support.

Cons:

– Some packages may be expensive in certain countries;
– Most plans do not include voice minutes.

 

   9. Jetpac

Jetpac is an innovator in the eSIM market, providing global connectivity without the need for physical SIM cards in South Korea. With a focus on convenience and savings, Jetpac stands out as an excellent choice for frequent travelers looking for a practical and efficient solution to stay connected.

Pros:

– Comprehensive global coverage;
– Flexible and customizable plans for different user profiles;
– Competitive and affordable prices;
– Quick and easy activation, directly through the app.

Cons:

– Some plans do not include voice minutes;
– It may be more expensive in specific regions such as Africa.

 

Bonus Option

    Airhub

Airhub is an eSIM platform providing global connectivity in more than 190 countries. Serving as a digital marketplace for eSIMs, Airhub aims to streamline the connectivity journey for travelers on the go.

 

 

Offering a range of local, regional, and global plans, Airhub distinguishes itself with its flexibility, competitive pricing, and dependable performance. The company also emphasizes responsive customer support via live chat, making Airhub an appealing choice for travelers seeking convenient solutions to fulfill their requirements.

Pros:

• Clean and easy to use application and website;
• Great speed in most countries;
• Plans include data, voice minutes and SMS;

Cons:

• Payment service fees charged at the time of payment;
• Doesn’t offer many regional plans except for Europe;

 

 

Comparison Table of eSIMs with Data Bundle Prices for Different Regions and Countries

As plans vary greatly between companies, with different package sizes and prices, it is extremely important to carry out a detailed analysis of the available options to choose the one that best fits your travel needs. Furthermore, it is essential to examine every detail of the plan you are purchasing to make sure it is the right choice for you.

To make your choice easier, here are two comparative tables with the prices of the main eSIM packages for some of the most popular destinations, and also by regions, if your trip includes several countries!

	Airalo	Maya Mobile	AloSIM	Breeze	Nomad	Holafly	Airhub
USA	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 11 10 GB: U$ 13	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 89 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 16 20 GB: U$ 42	1 GB: U$ 6 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 49	1 GB: U$ 7 10 GB: U$ 24 20 GB: U$ 32	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	20 GB: U$ 38 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 45
Canada	1 GB: U$ 6 3 GB: U$ 15 10 GB: U$ 18	1 GB: R$ 39 5 GB: R$ 119 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 6 5 GB: U$ 18 10 GB: U$ 35	1 GB: U$ 7 5 GB: U$ 31 20 GB: U$ 79	1 GB: U$ 7 5 GB: U$ 18 10 GB: U$ 32	5 Days: U$ 27 10 Days: U$ 37 20 Days: U$ 54	20 GB: U$ 38 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 41
Austrália	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 9 10 GB: U$ 20	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 99 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 13.5 20 GB: U$ 40	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 49	1 GB: U$ 6 20 GB: U$ 30 50 GB: U$ 125	5 Days: U$ 19 10 Days: U$ 34 20 Days: U$ 54	20 GB: U$ 38 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 65
França	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 10 10 GB: U$ 23	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 59 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 14 20 GB: U$ 36	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 43	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 33	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	14 GB: U$ 19.5 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 30
South Africa	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 11 10 GB: U$ 26	3 GB: R$ 59 10 GB: R$ 119 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 15.5 20 GB: U$ 48	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 43 20 GB: U$ 121	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 28 10 GB: U$ 45	5 Days: U$ 29 10 Days: U$ 44 30 Days: U$ 79	5 GB: U$ 33 10 GB: U$ 66 25 GB: U$ 42
Egypt	1 GB: U$ 7 3 GB: U$ 17.5 5 GB: U$ 26.5	1 GB: R$ 69 5 GB: R$ 249 10 GB: R$ 359	1 GB: U$ 7 3 GB: U$ 17.5 5 GB: U$ 26.5	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 43 20 GB: U$ 121	1 GB: U$ 9 5 GB: U$ 34 10 GB: U$ 65	5 Days: U$ 27 10 Days: U$ 37 20 Days: U$ 54	3 GB: U$ 14.5 10 GB: U$ 38.5 20 GB: U$ 73.5
Italy	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 10 10 GB: U$ 24	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 59 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 14.5 20 GB: U$ 33	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 43	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 33	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	15 GB: U$ 17 30 GB: U$ 38.5 50 GB: U$ 49.99
Spain	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 8.5 10 GB: U$ 18	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 59 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 11.5 20 GB: U$ 26	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 43	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 33	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	15 GB: U$ 17 20 GB: U$ 25 50 GB: U$ 49.99
Japan	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 8.5 10 GB: U$ 18	3 GB: R$ 79 10 GB: R$ 179 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 13.5 20 GB: U$ 32.5	1 GB: U$ 9 5 GB: U$ 37 20 GB: U$ 91	1 GB: U$ 6 20 GB: U$ 34 50 GB: U$ 125	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	3 GB: U$ 8 20 GB: U$ 32 50 GB: U$ 72
South Korea	10 Days: U$ 32 30 Days: U$ 62	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 99 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 5 3 GB: U$ 15 10 GB: U$ 27	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 25 20 GB: U$ 67	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 20 20 GB: U$ 30	5 Days: U$ 19 10 Days: U$ 34 20 Days: U$ 54	3 GB: U$ 9 5 GB: U$ 13 10 GB: U$ 18

 

If you’re looking to snag yourself an eSIM plan that’ll keep you connected across a whole continent, no worries! These companies have got you covered with some solid options. Check out the table below where we’ve rounded up a variety for you to compare.

 

	Europe	South America	Africa	Asia
Airalo	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 20 50 GB: U$ 100	1 GB: U$ 15 3 GB: U$ 39 5 GB: U$ 60	1 GB: U$ 27 3 GB: U$ 59	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 20 50 GB: U$ 100
Maya Mobile	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 89 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: R$ 49 5 GB: R$ 139 unlimited: R$ 289	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for Africa	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 89 unlimited: R$ 179
AloSIM	1 GB: U$ 5 3 GB: U$ 13 10 GB: U$ 37	1 GB: U$ 20 3 GB: U$ 41 5 GB: U$ 64	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for Africa	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 20 50 GB: U$ 100
Breeze	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 25 20 GB: U$ 49	1 GB: U$ 14 5 GB: U$ 49 10 GB: U$ 85	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 43 20 GB: U$ 121	1 GB: U$ 7 5 GB: U$ 25 20 GB: U$ 61
Nomad	1 GB: U$ 5 10 GB: U$ 22 20 GB: U$ 35	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for South America	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 28 10 GB: U$ 45	1 GB: U$ 8 10 GB: U$ 28 30 GB: U$ 65
Holafly	5 Days: U$ 19 20 Days: U$ 54 90 Days: U$ 99	5 Days: U$ 27 20 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 214	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for Africa	5 Days: U$ 27 10 Days: U$ 37 30 Days: U$ 79
Airhub	15 GB: U$ 17 20 GB: U$ 30 50 GB: U$ 49.99	200 GB: U$ 70 750 GB: U$ 90 unlimited: U$ 149	3 GB: U$ 25	5 GB: U$ 15 10 GB: U$ 18 1 GB/day: U$ 17.50

These values are valid for 01/8/2024 and may change without prior notice. Check directly with eSIM companies to see the most up-to-date values.

With these tables, you’re ready to enter the world of eSIMs and make the most of your next trip! 🌍✈️

 

Conclusion

Exploring the world with eSIMs is like having a digital passport to always be connected globally! If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below, and we will respond as quickly as possible!

Goodbye to boring queues to get local chips, hello freedom and practicality. Now you’re ready to explore the world without worrying about the bureaucratic complications of telecommunications.