📶 SIM, eSIM or Pocket Wi-Fi?

Published by

Wong lee

on

2025년 7월 8일

What’s the Best Internet Option for Korea Travelers

When visiting Korea, having stable internet access is essential.
From navigating the subway to ordering food or translating signs, you’ll need to stay connected.
But which option is best for you? Let’s compare the three most popular internet solutions for travelers.

1️⃣ SIM Card

A SIM card is a small chip you insert into your phone to access mobile networks.

Inserting a SIM card into a smartphone for Korea travel

📍 Where to get it:

Incheon International Airport (KT, SKT, LG U+ booths)
Major convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven)
Online platforms (Trazy, Klook)

✅ Pros:

Fast LTE or 5G speeds
Affordable plans for short or long stays
Compatible with most unlocked phones

❌ Cons:

Requires removing your current SIM card
You’ll temporarily lose access to your home number

✨ Want reliable mobile internet in Korea with fast speeds?
📱 Ideal for travelers with unlocked smartphones!

👉 Buy a Korea SIM Card with Data

2️⃣ eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM you activate by scanning a QR code. No physical card is required.

eSIM setup menu on a modern smartphone for Korea travel

📍 Where to get it:

Online platforms like Airalo, Holafly, Nomad
Can be set up before you arrive in Korea

✅ Pros:

Instant setup without changing SIMs
Great for dual-SIM or eSIM-supported phones
Ideal for short-term travelers

❌ Cons:

Not supported on older phone models
Setup can be tricky for first-timers

ℹ️ Check if your phone supports eSIM here

✅ Buy your Korea eSIM here

📡 Instant delivery + 4G speed

3️⃣ Pocket Wi-Fi

A Pocket Wi-Fi is a portable router you carry with you during your trip.
It connects to the mobile network and creates a Wi-Fi hotspot.

📍 Where to get it:

Rent at Incheon Airport
Book in advance via Trazy, Klook, or KT websites

✅ Pros:

Connect multiple devices at once (great for groups)
Unlimited data options available

❌ Cons:

Must carry it around & charge daily
Extra cost for rental insurance or late return

✨ Planning to stay connected in Korea?
📶 Perfect for groups or multiple devices!

👉 Rent Pocket Wi‑Fi in Korea via Klook

🆚 What’s Best for You?

Traveler Type	Recommended Option
Solo traveler with one phone	SIM or eSIM
Family/group with multiple devices	Pocket Wi-Fi
Tech-savvy with newer phone	eSIM
Long-term stay (2+ weeks)	SIM card with local plan
Short trip (<7 days)	eSIM or Pocket Wi-Fi

🧠 Wong’s Travel Tips

Make sure your phone is unlocked before purchasing any SIM or eSIM
Pocket Wi-Fi is perfect for friends or couples traveling together
Don’t rely on free Wi-Fi — many apps like Naver Map or Kakao Metro require mobile data
eSIM is great if you don’t want to wait at the airport!