Whether you're staying in Korea for a few weeks or planning to live here long-term, getting a Korean phone number is one of the first things you’ll need to make your daily life smooth. From ordering food to registering for banking services and chatting with friends, your Korean number is your digital ID.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a Korean phone number, even if you don’t speak Korean or have a resident ID yet.
1. Why You Need a Korean Phone Number
Having a Korean number will help you:
- Register for KakaoTalk, Korea’s most-used messaging app
- Access online banking and apps
- Receive verification texts for shopping and delivery services
- Communicate with employers, landlords, or school staff
- Book services like taxis, reservations, or even COVID tests
2. Your Options: Prepaid vs. Postpaid
🔹 Prepaid SIM Card
- Best for short-term visitors (1–90 days)
- No Alien Registration Card (ARC) required
- Can be purchased at Incheon Airport, convenience stores, or online
- Popular brands: EG SIM, KT M Mobile, SK 7 Mobile
🔹 Postpaid SIM Card
- Ideal for long-term residents (3+ months)
- Requires an ARC (Alien Registration Card)
- Monthly billing, cheaper in the long run
- Available at official carrier stores (KT, SK, LG U+)
3. What Documents Do You Need?
| Prepaid | Passport |
| Postpaid | ARC + Passport |
| eSIM | Same as above + compatible phone |
Tip: Some virtual mobile providers (알뜰폰) offer eSIMs which are great if your phone supports them.
4. Where to Buy a SIM Card
📍 At the Airport – EG SIM, KT roaming booths, etc.
📦 Online – Korea SIM Gold, Trazy, Woori Mobile
🏬 Mobile Stores – KT, LG, SK shops (for postpaid)
📱 Apps/Websites – Chingu Mobile, The Arrival Store
Some services even deliver the SIM to your hotel or guesthouse before you arrive.
5. Setting Up Your SIM
- Insert the SIM card
- Restart your phone
- Configure APN settings (if needed)
- Receive activation message (usually takes 1–30 minutes)
6. Getting a Phone Plan Without ARC (Yes, It's Possible!)
Many services now offer short-term SIMs without ARC. These are especially useful if you're waiting for your ARC or only staying temporarily.
Examples:
- EG SIM
- Woori Mobile
- KT M Mobile (Tourist Plans)
- Chingu Mobile (English support available)
7. Switching to Postpaid After You Get ARC
Once you receive your ARC, you can upgrade to a long-term plan.
Most providers will help you switch plans with no number change, especially if you stick with the same provider.
8. Useful Tips
- Use passport for tourist SIMs
- Use ARC + passport for postpaid SIMs
- Use KakaoTalk with your new number
- Don’t lose your SIM card registration info — you’ll need it for customer service
9. Final Thoughts
Getting a Korean phone number isn’t as scary as it seems. Whether you're staying for a month or a year, there’s a simple solution for you — and most services now offer English support and online setup.
Stay connected, stay local, and enjoy everything Korea has to offer — starting with your own Korean phone number.
Whether you're staying in Korea for a few weeks or planning to live here long-term, getting a Korean phone number is one of the first things you’ll need to make your daily life smooth. From ordering food to registering for banking services and chatting with friends, your Korean number is your digital ID.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a Korean phone number, even if you don’t speak Korean or have a resident ID yet.
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