Which Works Better in South Korea? eSIM, SIM Card, Wi-Fi Router
SIM cards can be used without worrying about charging like a Wi-Fi router, and they don't add much to your luggage. You can choose from many plans. However, there are disadvantages such as complicated settings and the need for a SIM-free smartphone.
Wi-Fi routers allow multiple people to share and connect to multiple devices just by setting them up after arrival. However, there may be issues with battery life, the hassle of handing over, and increased costs. eSIMs do not require a physical SIM card, so there is no worry of loss or damage. The setup is relatively simple, but the compatible smartphones are limited.
Below, we have summarized the three characteristics and precautions in a table.
Feature | eSIM | SIM Card | Wi-Fi Router |
Ease of use | No card insertion, no charging required | Card insertion required | Requires charging |
Carry | Unnecessary | Attached to the smartphone | Necessity |
Merit | No need to hand over withoutworrying about loss or damage | Lots of plan options | Can be shared by multiple people |
Demerit | Prior activation is required because compatible smartphones are limited. | There is a risk of losing a SIM-free smartphone | Charging is required, equipment needs to be carried, handingover is troublesome |
What Phones are Compatible with eSIM?
Before booking please confirm that your mobile device is compatible with eSIM and the local network. Be aware that an administrative charge will apply if there are phone compatibility issues, even after booking. Steps to Verify: Go to your device's Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data/SIM Card options and look for the option to ‘Add cellular/mobile data plan/eSim’.
【Compatible Devices】
Brand | Compatible Models |
Apple | iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, SE 2020, 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th gen), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd gen), iPad Air (3rd, 4th gen), iPad (7th, 8th gen), iPad mini (5th gen) |
Samsung | Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, Fold LTE, Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra, Ultra 5g |
Google | Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 5 |
Other | Huawei P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro, Motorola Razr 2020 |
【Note】
iPhones sold in or produced for China, and some versions from Hong Kong, do not support eSIM.
Detailed Info about South Korea eSIM
Item | Detail |
Communication Capacity | Unlimited data, 600MB, 1.5GB |
Communication Standards | High-speed 4G LTE Network |
Communication area | South Korea |
Validality | Valid for 30 days from the date of booking |
What's not included | Voice calls, SMS |
Unsupported devices | SIM-locked devices, carrier-specific devices, Wi-Fi routers |
Precautions | If your daily usage exceeds the limit, your connection speed will decrease.Vouchers are valid for 1 days after they are issued.For one-time use only. |
How to Set Up an eSIM in South Korea
Before purchasing an eSIM product from Trip.com, please check if your mobile phone can use eSIM.
Trip.com's eSIM is compatible with a wide range of models, from the latest iPhones to popular Samsung series and Google Pixel. Please check your model before using it.
About Installation
1. Please check the QR code displayed in the eSIM activation email.
2. Go to "Settings" on your smartphone's home screen and select "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android).
3. After agreeing to install "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android), you can install it by reading the QR code displayed in the activation email.
How to Use
1. After installation, turn off your existing Sim card.
2. When using "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android), the LTE icon will be displayed in the upper right corner.
3. You can communicate by turning on data roaming.
4. If you are not connected to the network after the above operations, switch airplane mode on and off or restart your smartphone.
About Termination
Tap "Mobile Data" (iOS) or "Sim Card Management" (Android) and switch it to invalid (the same procedure applies for activation).
3 benefits of using eSIM in South Korea
1. You can use it as soon as you arrive in Korea
When you visit South Korea, it is a big advantage of eSIM to be able to connect to the Internet smoothly from the moment you land at the airport. In the case of traditional SIM cards, you need to purchase at the airport shop or have time to pick up your pre-ordered SIM. However, by downloading the eSIM in advance, you can connect to the network the moment you get off the plane.
This will help you make your trip more efficient, such as arranging a taxi or giving directions to your hotel.
2. No risk of loss or damage
Traditional SIM cards are very small and require careful handling. Especially when replacing it at a travel destination, the risk of loss or damage increases. On the other hand, eSIMs don't have a physical shape, so you don't have to worry about them being lost or damaged. You don't have to worry about opening the SIM tray with a small pin or accidentally dropping the SIM card.
3. Dual SIM possible
By utilizing an eSIM, it is possible to use a dual SIM. Dual SIM means that you can use two networks on one smartphone.
3 disadvantages of using eSIM in South Korea
1. Limited models
To use an eSIM, you'll need a smartphone or tablet that supports eSIM. Newer models are now compatible with eSIM, but older models and some mid- and low-end devices don't support eSIM.
This will take you through the hassle of checking if an eSIM is available on your current device. If you need to buy a new device to use the eSIM, you'll also need to consider the costs involved.
2. Not available on multiple devices
Traditional SIM cards can be replaced between devices. Therefore, one SIM can be used on multiple devices. However, since the eSIM is built into the device, it is difficult to easily move it between multiple devices. Therefore, it may be inconvenient for those who use multiple devices during their trip to Korea.
3. I can't use my phone number
Your eSIM data plan may not provide you with a unique phone number or may require an additional fee.
This can be inconvenient in situations where you need a local phone number (for example, to make a restaurant reservation or contact a hotel). Conventional SIM cards often provide a phone number as a set with data communication, so this is a point to keep in mind when considering the use of eSIM.
3 Tips for Choosing an South Korea eSIM
1. Reviews and Reputation
By checking the reviews and reputation of other users on the internet, you can learn about their actual usage experiences. Do thorough research to obtain information about the quality of carrier support, communication speed, etc.
2. Plan Details and Fees
Check the details of the usage plan, including call charges, data capacity, and expiration date. Choose a plan that suits your usage situation, such as plans that support communication both inside and outside South Korea, or plans for long-term stays.
3. Variety of Carriers
There are multiple communication carriers in South Korea. Compare the usage area, communication quality, plan price, data capacity, etc., and choose a carrier that suits your needs. It is important to choose a reliable carrier.
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