How do foreigners usually get a Korean phone number when they first arrive?
I just arrived in Korea and I need a local phone number for banking, deliveries, and signing up for apps. What is the usual way for foreigners to get a Korean phone number at the beginning, and are there any documents or carrier options I should know about?
1 Answer
Getting a Korean phone number is one of the first things you should do after arriving. Here are your options:
Option 1: Prepaid SIM card (fastest)
Buy at the airport (Incheon has KT, SKT, LG U+ booths in the arrivals hall) You need your passport. Some carriers also accept ARC. Cost: around 30,000-55,000 won for 30 days with data. Chingu Mobile and Korea SIM are foreigner-friendly prepaid options. You can also buy at CU or GS25 convenience stores.
Option 2: Postpaid plan with ARC (best long-term value)
Once you have your ARC (Alien Registration Card), visit any carrier store: KT: Best coverage nationwide. SKT: Largest network, premium pricing. LG U+: Often cheapest, good coverage in cities. Monthly plans: 30,000-55,000 won for unlimited calls + 5-15GB data. Bring your passport + ARC + Korean bank account (for auto-pay)
Option 3: Budget MVNOs
Budget phones: Cheaper carriers using KT/SKT/LG networks. Tplus, Hello Mobile, KT M Mobile. Plans as low as 10,000-20,000 won per month. Sign up at their stores or online (may need Korean language help)
Important tips: A Korean phone number is essential for banking, Kakao, Naver, and delivery apps. If you don't have an ARC yet, prepaid is your only option. Keep your passport ready when signing up for anything. Ask about phone installment plans if you need a new phone. 24-36 month plans are standard. Port your number for free if you switch carriers later.