Introduction
South Korea is known for its ultra-fast internet and advanced mobile networks, making it a perfect destination to experience the full benefits of eSIM technology. Unlike the traditional SIM cards that require physical installation, an eSIM is embedded in your phone and activated digitally through a QR code. No more swapping tiny chips—just scan, install, and connect.
Whether you’re a traveler, student, or business visitor, staying connected in South Korea is effortless with eSIMs. In this South Korea eSIM Guide, we’ve answered the 30 most common questions about eSIMs—from purchasing and activation to managing your data and ensuring compatibility.
If you’ve never used an eSIM before or want to make your travel connectivity smarter, this guide is for you. It’s simple, clear, and jargon-free, helping you understand exactly how to stay connected while exploring Seoul, Busan, or Jeju Island. Let’s dive in and make your next South Korean trip seamlessly connected with eSIM technology.
Table of Contents
- How to buy an eSIM for South Korea?
- Which is the best eSIM for South Korea?
- Can I buy a South Korea eSIM before traveling?
- Do I need an ID or a passport to buy a South Korea eSIM?
- How do I install and activate my eSIM for South Korea?
- When should I activate my eSIM - before or after arriving in South Korea?
- What should I do if I can’t scan the eSIM QR code?
- Can I use both my home SIM and South Korea eSIM together?
- How do I avoid roaming charges while using eSIM in South Korea?
- What is a travel eSIM and how does it work in South Korea?
- Is using an eSIM better than international roaming in South Korea?
- Are South Korea eSIMs cheaper than roaming?
- Will I get a Korean phone number with my eSIM?
- Can I still receive calls on my original number while using a South Korea eSIM?
- How much data do I need for my trip to South Korea?
- Can I use a South Korea eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
- Will I get a new phone number with a South Korea travel eSIM?
- Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a South Korea eSIM for data?
- Do South Korea travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?
- How much data will I need for my trip to South Korea?
- What is an eSIM card and how does it work in South Korea?
- How to activate eSIM on an iPhone in South Korea?
- How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another in South Korea?
- Which phones support eSIM in South Korea?
- How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in South Korea?
- How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in South Korea?
- How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in South Korea?
- How to add eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to South Korea?
- Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in South Korea?
1. How to buy an eSIM for South Korea?
Buying an eSIM for South Korea is simple and fully digital. Visit Mobimatter’s website, select your preferred South Korea data plan, and complete the checkout process. Once purchased, you’ll instantly receive a QR code and manual setup instructions. Scan the QR code using your phone’s eSIM settings, and your plan is ready to use. The entire process takes just a few minutes, saving you from waiting in airport queues or dealing with local SIM stores. This method is especially ideal for travelers who prefer convenience and quick access to data upon arrival in South Korea.
2. Which is the best eSIM for South Korea?
The best eSIM depends on how you plan to use your phone. Light travelers can opt for small data plans (2–5 GB), while heavy users might prefer 20–30 GB plans for streaming, maps, and video calls. Mobimatter offers reliable plans connecting to top Korean networks, ensuring strong 4G/5G coverage across Seoul, Busan, and Jeju. Each plan comes with details on validity, speed, and hotspot support, so you can pick what best fits your travel habits. If you’re looking for flexibility and quality, Mobimatter’s South Korea eSIM options are a great choice.
MobiMatter’s Pick - South Korea 20 GB
3. Can I buy a South Korea eSIM before traveling?
Yes, buying in advance is recommended. You can purchase and install the eSIM from anywhere in the world using Mobimatter’s website. Once installed, it activates as soon as you arrive in South Korea. This means you’ll have internet access right after landing—perfect for booking rides, checking maps, or messaging loved ones. Buying early ensures you avoid airport rush and have one less thing to worry about during your trip.
4. Do I need an ID or a passport to buy a South Korea eSIM?
No physical ID or passport is required when buying through Mobimatter. You only need an email address to receive the QR code and instructions. This makes the purchase process simple, fast, and paperless. Unlike traditional SIM stores that require local registration, Mobimatter’s eSIMs let you stay anonymous and skip unnecessary verification. You’ll get connected in minutes without the hassle of providing documents or filling out forms.
5. How do I install and activate my eSIM for South Korea?
First, ensure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi. Then, go to your device’s eSIM settings—on iPhone, navigate to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. On Android, go to Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM. Scan the QR code sent by Mobimatter. Label it (for example, “Korea eSIM”) and activate it once you land in South Korea. Within seconds, you’ll be connected to local 4G/5G networks. This digital activation process eliminates any physical SIM requirements.
6. When should I activate my eSIM - before or after arriving in South Korea?
Install the eSIM before traveling, but activate it only after you land. Activation starts the plan’s validity, so doing it too early could waste days. Once in South Korea, connect to Wi-Fi (like airport Wi-Fi) and activate the eSIM. Mobimatter provides setup instructions to help you time activation perfectly. By waiting until arrival, you ensure the full data period is used effectively.
7. What should I do if I can’t scan the eSIM QR code?
If scanning doesn’t work, Mobimatter offers a manual installation option. You can enter the SM-DP+ server address and activation code manually under your phone’s eSIM settings. This method is useful if your camera isn’t functioning properly or your phone doesn’t recognize the QR code. The process takes just a few minutes and connects you to the network instantly. Mobimatter provides detailed step-by-step guidance in your account dashboard.
8. Can I use both my home SIM and South Korea eSIM together?
Yes. Most new smartphones allow dual SIM functionality—one physical SIM and one eSIM. You can assign your South Korea eSIM for mobile data while keeping your home SIM for calls or messages. This setup ensures seamless communication with friends or clients back home while using affordable local data in South Korea. Managing both is simple through your device’s SIM Manager settings.
9. How do I avoid roaming charges while using eSIM in South Korea?
Go to your phone’s settings and select your South Korea eSIM as the default data line. Then, disable “Data Roaming” on your home SIM. This ensures all data usage is routed through the eSIM, preventing accidental roaming from your home network. Mobimatter also includes a simple guide to verify this setting, helping you stay safe from surprise roaming charges while traveling.
10. What is a travel eSIM and how does it work in South Korea?
A travel eSIM is a virtual SIM card embedded within your phone that connects to local mobile networks digitally. In South Korea, you can buy one online from Mobimatter, install it, and instantly connect to carriers without visiting a store. The eSIM allows you to use high-speed internet for maps, communication, and social media without dealing with traditional SIM hassles. It’s the modern traveler’s go-to for effortless connectivity.
11. Is using an eSIM better than international roaming in South Korea?
Absolutely. Roaming through your home carrier can be costly and unreliable. With an eSIM, you enjoy fast 4G/5G speeds on local networks at much lower rates. The connection is stable, activation is instant, and you know your total cost upfront. Mobimatter’s esim South Korea plans provide easy access without hidden fees, making it the best choice for digital nomads, tourists, and frequent business travelers.
12. Are South Korea eSIMs cheaper than roaming?
Yes, they are significantly cheaper. eSIM plans provide local-level pricing while roaming charges from home carriers are usually high and unpredictable. eSIMs give you complete control—you pay once, get the data you need, and use it without limits. With South Korea’s efficient mobile networks, you’ll experience fast speeds without paying premium roaming rates.
13. Will I get a Korean phone number with my eSIM?
Most eSIMs for South Korea are data-only, meaning they don’t come with a phone number. However, you can still use your existing number on messaging apps like Kakao Talk, WhatsApp or FaceTime for communication. If you require voice calls or texts, check the plan details on Mobimatter to see if VoIP calling is supported. For most travelers, a data-only plan is more than enough.
14. Can I still receive calls on my original number while using a South Korea eSIM?
Yes, if your phone supports dual SIM, you can receive calls or messages on your original SIM while using your South Korea eSIM for data. Just make sure roaming is disabled on your home SIM to avoid fees. This setup is perfect for travelers who want to stay reachable without compromising on data affordability.
15. How much data do I need for my trip to South Korea?
It depends on your usage. For basic navigation, messaging, and light browsing, 3–5 GB should be sufficient. If you frequently stream, attend online meetings, or upload content, consider 10–30 GB. Mobimatter’s plans are flexible, allowing you to choose data amounts suitable for your stay duration. Always opt for a little extra to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during your travels.
16. Can I use a South Korea eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
Yes, absolutely. Most modern smartphones allow dual SIM functionality—one physical SIM and one eSIM. This means you can keep your home SIM active for receiving calls or SMS while using your South Korea eSIM exclusively for mobile data. It’s an ideal setup for travelers who need to stay connected with local and international contacts simultaneously. To configure, open your phone’s SIM settings, assign the South Korea eSIM for data, and set your home SIM for calls/texts if needed. Your device will automatically manage which SIM is used based on the task. This dual-SIM flexibility makes travel smoother—especially for digital nomads and business professionals.
17. Will I get a new phone number with a South Korea travel eSIM?
Most South Korea travel eSIMs from Mobimatter are data-only, which means they don’t come with a local phone number or SMS capability. You won’t receive a South Korean number unless you specifically choose a plan that includes voice/SMS. Your home SIM remains active for receiving calls or texts if your device supports dual SIMs. Apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, Telegram, and others work perfectly for communication over data, so most travelers don’t need a local number. If calling is essential, consider a VoIP-compatible plan or make calls via apps using your eSIM’s data connection.
18. Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a South Korea eSIM for data?
Yes, you can. As long as your phone supports dual SIM and your home SIM remains active, you can continue to receive calls and SMS on your regular number. Just turn off data roaming on your primary SIM to avoid unexpected roaming fees. Assign your South Korea eSIM as the data-only SIM in settings, and use your home SIM for voice/text. This setup is particularly useful for banking OTPs or staying reachable to friends and family back home. If unsure, Mobimatter provides easy setup guides to help you configure both lines safely.
19. Do South Korea travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?
Most South Korea eSIMs available through Mobimatter are data-only plans designed for seamless internet access—perfect for maps, messaging, and streaming. They typically don’t include traditional calling or texting. However, a few specific plans may include limited voice minutes or SMS, so always review the plan details before purchase. Even if your plan doesn’t include voice, apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime Audio work flawlessly for internet-based calling. For short visits or vacations, a data-only plan is usually sufficient for all your communication needs.
20. How much data will I need for my trip to South Korea?
Your data requirement depends on how you travel and use your phone. Light users (maps, emails, WhatsApp): 3–5 GB for a week. Moderate users (social media, browsing): 10–20 GB and heavy users (streaming, remote work, uploads): 30 GB or more. Mobimatter offers flexible plans tailored to every traveler type. You can also track usage from your phone settings to ensure you don’t exceed your allowance. It’s generally smarter to choose a plan with slightly more data than you think you’ll need especially if you rely on maps, translation apps, or video calls.
Is my phone unlocked and compatible with South Korea eSIMs?
To use a South Korea eSIM, your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Most flagship models released after 2020 meet both conditions. Apple: iPhone XS, XR, and newer support eSIM. Android: Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, and models from Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi often qualify. To confirm compatibility, go to Settings → Cellular / Network → Add eSIM. If the option appears, you’re good to go. If your phone is locked, contact your carrier to unlock it before traveling. Mobimatter’s device compatibility guide can also verify your model.
21. What is an eSIM card and how does it work in South Korea?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a built-in digital SIM that connects you to a mobile network without inserting a physical SIM card. In South Korea, eSIMs allow travelers to instantly connect to major local networks such as SK Telecom, KT Olleh, and LG U+ via Mobimatter. After purchase, you’ll receive a QR code or activation link. Simply scan it to install your eSIM profile. Once activated, your phone connects to a South Korean carrier automatically, offering high-speed data and uninterrupted connectivity without visiting a SIM store.
22. How to activate eSIM on an iPhone in South Korea?
To activate your South Korea eSIM on iPhone: Ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi. Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. Choose “Use QR Code” and scan the code from your Mobimatter email. Label the plan as “South Korea eSIM” for clarity. Select it as your primary data line. Your iPhone will automatically connect to a South Korean mobile network once activation completes, usually in under five minutes.
23. How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another in South Korea?
If you’ve upgraded or switched iPhones, transferring your South Korea eSIM is easy. On your old device, go to Settings → Cellular → Remove Cellular Plan. Log into your Mobimatter dashboard and request a new QR code for your existing plan. On your new iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. Label and activate it as your data line. This ensures uninterrupted connectivity when switching devices. Always delete the old eSIM to avoid conflicts.
24. Which phones support eSIM in South Korea?
Most modern smartphones are compatible with South Korea eSIMs, including: Apple: iPhone XS, XR, and later (including iPhone 15 series). Google: Pixel 3 and newer. Samsung: Galaxy S20, S21, S22, Z Fold, and Flip series. Other brands: Huawei, Oppo, Xiaomi (select flagship models). To confirm, open Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM—if visible, your phone supports it. For more details, Mobimatter’s compatibility guide lists all supported devices.
25. How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in South Korea?
You can’t directly transfer an eSIM between iPhone and Android due to system differences. Instead: Log in to your Mobimatter account. Request a new QR code for your plan. On your Android phone, go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. Activate and label it. After activation, remove the eSIM from your iPhone to avoid duplication. The process is quick and ensures your plan continues working seamlessly across devices.
26. How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in South Korea?
To delete an eSIM: go to Settings → Cellular → Select Plan → Remove Cellular Plan. Confirm removal. This deletes the eSIM profile but not the plan itself. If you wish to reinstall it later, contact Mobimatter for a new QR code. Deleting unused eSIMs helps avoid confusion, especially if you frequently travel and switch profiles.
27. How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in South Korea?
Setting up your eSIM in South Korea takes just a few minutes: Connect to Wi-Fi. Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. Scan the QR code from Mobimatter or enter the details manually. Label it “South Korea eSIM.” Choose it as your data line. Once done, your iPhone connects instantly to local Korean networks—no store visit required.
28. How to add eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to South Korea?
Adding your South Korea eSIM while traveling is simple: connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi, then go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Scan the QR code from your Mobimatter email or enter the manual details provided. Label the plan appropriately for easy management. You can use it alongside your physical SIM or as your main data line. This process ensures smooth, reliable connectivity across South Korea without the need for a physical SIM swap, making it ideal for travelers who want hassle-free mobile access during their trip.
29. Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in South Korea?
To check, open Settings → Cellular (or Network & Internet) → Add eSIM. If that option is available, your phone supports eSIM. Make sure it’s also unlocked, as locked devices may block international eSIM profiles. Compatible models include iPhone XS or newer, Pixel 3 or newer, and Samsung Galaxy S20 or above. Always verify both compatibility and unlock status before purchasing a South Korea eSIM plan to ensure effortless setup and connectivity on arrival.