Introduction
If you've decided to travel to Seoul, choosing the right mobile service is a top priority. There are four main types of mobile services in Korea. If you are planning your first trip abroad or are unfamiliar with the options, I highly recommend checking out my previous guide first:
[[Guide to the 4 Types of Mobile Services for Your Seoul Trip]]
Today, I’ll provide a comprehensive comparison of Prepaid SIM Card services offered by major Korean carriers for those who have chosen a SIM card as their go-to connectivity option.
1. The "Big 3" Major Carriers: SKT, KT, and LG U+
When looking for a South Korea prepaid SIM comparison, most travelers start with the top three providers.
(1) Data Only Plans
These plans provide unlimited data for a selected period and come with a local 010 phone number. You can receive calls and SMS for free and use M-VoIP services like FaceTime to stay in touch with family back home.
Full Price Comparison (Unit: KRW)
| Duration | SKT | KT | LGU+ | LGU+(5G) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day | 6,500 | 6,500 | 6,500 | 9,500 |
| 2 Days | 12,000 | 12,000 | 12,000 | 15,000 |
| 3 Days | 18,000 | 18,000 | 18,000 | 25,000 |
| 4 Days | 23,000 | 23,000 | 23,000 | 30,000 |
| 5 Days | 27,500 | 27,500 | 27,500 | 34,500 |
| 6 Days | 31,900 | 31,900 | 32,000 | 39,000 |
| 7 Days | 35,000 | 35,000 | 35,000 | 42,000 |
| 8 Days | 36,300 | (NONE) | 36,500 | 43,500 |
| 9 Days | 37,400 | (NONE) | 37,500 | 44,500 |
| 10 Days | 38,500 | 38,500 | 38,500 | 45,500 |
| 15 Days | 55,000 | 55,000 | 55,000 | 65,000 |
| 20 Days | 60,400 | 60,500 | 60,500 | 70,500 |
| 30 Days | 71,500 | 71,500 | 71,500 | 81,500 |
| 40 Days | (NONE) | (NONE) | 99,000 | 109,000 |
| 60 Days | 107,000 | 107,200 | 143,000 | 153,000 |
| 90 Days | 143,000 | 143,000 | 192,500 | 202,500 |
- Feature 1: Rates across the Big 3 are almost identical.
- Feature 2: LG U+ is the only carrier currently offering 5G Prepaid SIM products.
- Feature 3: For long-term stays (30+ days), LG U+ is significantly more expensive than the others.
Unlimited Data Speeds
- SKT: Consistent speed at a maximum of 100Mbps.
- KT & LG (LTE): 3GB of high-speed LTE daily. After 3GB, unlimited data at a QoS speed of 5Mbps.
- LG (5G): Truly unlimited data at speeds up to 20Gbps.
(2) Data + Voice + SMS Plans
These plans include unlimited data and a local 010 number for outgoing calls/texts. This is essential for apps requiring SMS authentication such as Kakao T or Coupang Eats.
Full Price Comparison (Unit: KRW)
| Duration | SKT | KT | LGU+ | LGU+(5G) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day | (NONE) | (NONE) | 6,500 | 9,500 |
| 2 Days | 12,000 | (NONE) | 12,000 | 15,000 |
| 3 Days | 18,000 | 16,200 | 18,000 | 25,000 |
| 4 Days | 23,000 | 20,700 | 23,000 | 30,000 |
| 5 Days | 27,500 | 24,700 | 27,500 | 34,500 |
| 6 Days | 31,900 | 28,400 | 32,000 | 39,000 |
| 7 Days | 35,000 | 31,500 | 35,000 | 42,000 |
| 8 Days | 36,300 | (NONE) | 36,500 | 43,500 |
| 9 Days | 37,400 | (NONE) | 37,500 | 44,500 |
| 10 Days | 38,500 | 34,600 | 38,500 | 45,500 |
| 15 Days | 55,000 | 49,500 | 55,000 | 65,000 |
| 20 Days | 60,400 | 54,400 | 60,500 | 70,500 |
| 30 Days | 71,500 | 64,300 | 71,500 | 81,500 |
| 40 Days | (NONE) | (NONE) | 99,000 | 109,000 |
| 60 Days | 107,000 | 107,200 | 143,000 | 153,000 |
| 90 Days | 143,000 | 143,000 | 192,500 | 202,500 |
Voice + SMS Top-up Details:
- Refill Amount: 5,500 KRW to 55,000 KRW per top-up.
- Domestic Rates: Calls: 4.4 KRW/sec | SMS: 33 KRW | MMS/LMS: 110 KRW.
- International Rates:
- Most countries (UK, Australia, etc.): 1,227.6 KRW/min.
- USA, Canada, Hong Kong: 990 KRW/min.
- International SMS: 165 KRW.
(3) Purchase Methods
Reserve online via official websites and pick it up at the Airport Roaming Center. On-site purchase without reservation is also available.
(4) Promotions & Benefits
- SK Telecom: 2-day+ plans include a free T-money card and a Palace Pass.
- KT: 3-day+ plans include a 10% discount and a free Trip Pass Card.
- LG U+: 3-day+ plans include a 10% discount and a free T-money card.
(5) LG U+ TOUR PASS (For Short-term Travelers)
A specialized product providing unlimited data and an "Unlimited Transportation Card" at a competitive price.
- Price: 3-Day (LTE 18,000 / 5G 25,000) | 5-Day (LTE 27,500 / 5G 34,500)
- Unlimited Transit: Valid for all buses and subways nationwide.
2. Korean MVNO (Budget) SIM Services
MVNOs provide stable data at a lower price using major networks. Chingu Mobile is highly recommended for foreign visitors.
(1) Data Only
- Unlimited data at a fixed speed of 10Mbps.
- Duration: 14 days (30,000 KRW) to 120 days (140,000 KRW).
(2) Data + Voice (Unlimited Domestic Calling)
- High-Speed Option: 150Mbps first 2GB/day (11GB/month), then 3Mbps unlimited.
- Price: 7 days (40,000 KRW) to 180 days (270,000 KRW).
- Budget Option: 150Mbps first 300MB/month, then 3Mbps unlimited.
- Price: 7 days (23,000 KRW) to 180 days (140,000 KRW).
3. Official Purchase Links
- SK Telecom: [[skroaming.com]]
- KT: [[roaming.kt.com]]
- LG U+: [[lguplus.com]]
- Chingu Mobile: [[chingumobile.com]]
4. Essential Checklist Before Use
- Identity: Voice/SMS require passport verification.
- Country Lock: Ensure your phone is unlocked before arrival.
- Authentication: These SIMs cannot be used for official identity verification.
- Policy: Improper use results in immediate suspension.
5. Conclusion: Which SIM Should You Choose?
- Short Trips: The LG U+ TOUR PASS is the best value.
- High-Speed Needs: LG U+ 5G is ideal for streamers.
- Long-term Stays: MVNOs offer the best value.
Ready to explore Seoul?
[[Click here to see how to receive and activate your SIM card at the airport]]
[[Click here to see a comparison of eSIM options]]
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I buy a SIM card at Incheon Airport without a reservation?
A: Yes, on-site purchase is available at roaming centers, but online reservation is recommended for discounts and guaranteed stock.
Q: Which carrier offers the fastest data for tourists?
A: All 'Big 3' carriers offer high-speed LTE, but LG U+ is currently the only provider offering 5G prepaid SIM cards for extreme speeds.
Q: Does the prepaid SIM card include a Korean phone number?
A: Yes, most plans include a local 010 number, which allows you to receive calls and SMS for free.