Seoul & Beyond by Leeloo

You can choose between a physical SIM card or an eSIM (digital). Personally, I prefer a physical SIM, as it gives you a Korean phone number. This can be really useful if you want to make reservations or enter the many pop-up stores scattered across Seoul, especially in the Seongsu area.

For example, I stumbled upon a line for a makeup brand in Seongsu. Thanks to my Korean number, I just entered it on the tablet at the entrance and received a SMS notification when I could go in. Another time, at a restaurant/brunch spot, they asked for my Korean number to notify me when a table became available.

For this type of SIM card, I went to Klook (yes, again 😅). Simply search for “SIM card” and select the option that fits your needs:

• Network type (3G, 4G, etc.)
  
• Calls & SMS
  
• Duration of the plan

Book your SIM card here ! – Here are the trusted link I personally used.

⚠️ A small note: the duration can sometimes be inconvenient. The first time I traveled, I wanted a card for about 20 days, but I had to take and pay for 30 days because there wasn’t an exact option for my stay.

Tips for Long-Term SIM Cards in South Korea

Last time, with the people I traveled with, we stayed a bit longer than 30 days. What we did was get a 30-day SIM card (purchased on Klook and picked up at the airport), and before the plan expired, we simply bought a new SIM card.📱

It’s pretty easy to find mobile phone shops in tourist areas like Hongdae. For example:
📍 15, Sinchon-ro, Seodaemun-gu — this address is actually a Lotteria fast-food, but the small phone shop is right next to it and hard to miss. You’ll see “SIM & eSIM” written on the door.

There are many shops like this around the city, so keep an eye out while walking around and note their locations for when you need a replacement SIM card. Using Ubigi eSIM in South Korea.

The second option is an eSIM, and for this you can use the Ubigi app. It’s quick and easy — just create an account, then:

1. Choose the country and the duration of the plan.
   
2. Once everything is set, you’ll receive a QR code by email to scan.
   

You can even scan the QR code on the plane before your departure, and the plan will automatically activate once you’re in the coverage area. If needed, you can top up your plan directly in the app. 📱

For those who know Papesan, the photographer, he uses this app during his travels. (And you might be able to find a promo code in some of his Instagram posts.)