Destinations
How to get internet in Korea
Seoul has the fastest mobile network most travelers will ever use. Here is how to plug into it.
Published Aug 4, 20265 min read
Fast almost everywhere
Korea's networks are dense and quick, including underground on the Seoul Metro. Whatever you buy, speed will not be the problem — the question is how you get connected without spending your first afternoon in a phone shop.
Picking a size
Seoul-only trips run light: 3 to 5 GB covers a week of navigation and messaging. Add a few GB if you are heading to Busan or Jeju and streaming on the train. Video calls home every evening pushes you toward 10 GB.
Set it up before departure
Install the profile on Wi-Fi at home. When you land at Incheon, set the Flypass line as your mobile data and leave roaming on for it. You will be online before you reach immigration.
Worth knowing
Many Korean services still expect a local phone number for sign-up, and a data-only eSIM does not provide one. Sort out anything that needs SMS verification before you fly, or keep your home SIM reachable for it.
The short answer
5 GB for a week in Seoul, 10 GB if you are moving around the country, installed before you board.
