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SIM Card vs. Pocket WiFi: The Ultimate Korea Internet Guide (2025)

· 5 min read
Kai Miller
Kai Miller
Cultural Explorer & Photographer

You land in Korea. You take a photo of the airport. You want to post it on Instagram. But wait. Your home carrier just sent you a text: "Welcome to Korea! Data is $10/day."

Don't do it. South Korea has the fastest, cheapest mobile internet in the world. For the price of one day of roaming, you can get 5 days of unlimited 5G data.

The question isn't if you should get local internet, but how. Should you get an eSIM? A physical SIM card? Or a Pocket WiFi egg? Here is the breakdown.

SIM Card vs. Pocket WiFi: The Ultimate Korea Internet Guide (2025)

1. The Quick Verdict: Which One Are You?​

Don't want to read the whole article? Here is the cheat sheet.

The Solo Nomad → eSIM​

  • Why: It's instant. You scan a QR code before your flight, and it works the moment you land. No tiny plastic cards to lose.
  • Cost: Cheapest (~$3-4/day).

The Foodie / Power User → Physical SIM​

  • Why: You need a Korean phone number (010 prefix).
  • The Secret: Famous restaurants vary "CatchTable" waiting lists that require a Korean number. Delivery apps often require one too. Data-only eSIMs won't cut it.

The Squad (3+ People) → Pocket WiFi​

  • Why: You rent one device, and everyone connects to it.
  • Cost: Split 4 ways, it's pennies.
  • Downside: You have to stay within 10 meters of the person carrying the egg. (No splitting up!).

2. eSIM: The Modern Standard​

If your phone is unlocked and made in the last 3-4 years (iPhone XR or newer), this is the default choice.

Pros​

  • Instant Delivery: Buy online, scan QR code. Done.
  • Keep Your Number: Your home SIM stays active for emergency calls/texts (if you have dual SIM enabled).
  • Eco-friendly: No plastic waste.

Cons​

  • Data Only: Most tourist eSIMs do NOT come with a Korean phone number. You can use WhatsApp/KakaoTalk, but you can't make traditional calls.
  • Compatibility: You must check if your phone supports eSIM.

3. Physical SIM: Why You Might Need It​

Old school, but powerful.

The "010" Number Advantage​

In Korea, your phone number is your ID.

  • Restaurant Queues: Popular spots like "London Bagel Museum" or famous K-BBQ joints use tablets to manage lines. They text you when your table is ready. No Korean number? You might be turned away.
  • Identification: Some services require SMS verification.

Pros​

  • Reliable: It never runs out of battery (unlike a WiFi egg).
  • Full Features: Options for voice and text plans.

Cons​

  • Hassle: You have to take your case off, find a paperclip, and swap the tiny chips. Don't lose your home SIM!

4. Pocket WiFi (WiFi Egg): Budget for Groups​

A "WiFi Egg" is a small, battery-powered router.

Pros​

  • Unlimited Data: True unlimited options are common.
  • Multi-Device: Connect up to 3-5 devices (laptops, iPads, friends).
  • Price: Flat rate (~$3/day) regardless of how many people use it.

Cons​

  • The "Tether" Effect: If the person with the egg goes to the bathroom, everyone loses internet.
  • Battery Anxiety: It lasts 8-10 hours. You need a power bank.
  • Pickup/Return: You must pick it up at the airport and return it before you fly out. If you forget, the penalty fees are huge.

5. Where to Buy: Online vs. Airport​

Sites like Klook, Trazy, or GetYourGuide offer discounts (10-20% off) compared to walking up to the counter.

  • Process: Book online -> Receive voucher -> Show at airport counter -> Get SIM/WiFi.

Airport Counters​

Incheon Airport arrival hall is lined with carrier booths (SKT, KT, LG U+).

  • Pros: They set it up for you.
  • Cons: Slightly more expensive, potentially long lines at peak hours.

Convenience Stores (The Backup)​

You can buy SIM cards at CU or GS25 (like the "Korea SIM Blue" or "Link Korea").

  • Pro: Available 24/7 everywhere.
  • Con: You have to set it up yourself (APN settings), which can be tricky.

6. Carrier Wars: SKT vs. KT vs. LG U+​

You will see three main logos:

  1. SK Telecom (SKT): The largest premium carrier.
  2. KT (Olleh): The historic telecom giant.
  3. LG U+: The challenger, often slightly cheaper.

The Reality​

It does not matter. Korea is small and dense. All three networks have incredible 5G coverage, even in subway tunnels and on top of mountains. Just pick the one with the best price or pickup location for you.

Final Thoughts​

Internet in Korea is a utility, like water or electricity. It is fast, cheap, and everywhere.

  • My pick: I use an eSIM for convenience.
  • If I'm reviewing food: I grab a Physical SIM to get a number for queuing apps.
  • If I'm with family: I rent a WiFi Egg.

Now that you're connected, check out the Essential Apps you should download immediately.