If you are planning a trip to South Korea, having a reliable internet connection is important. While there are public WiFis available, renting a pocket WiFi will make your life much easier. In this guide, we’ll explain all about pocket Wifi in South Korea. We will also introduce the options for pocket Wifi rental, compare the prices, data allowances and features from popular networks.
In this article
A pocket wifi, also called a mobile hotspot or a WiFi egg Korea (as Koreans call it), is a portable wifi router for travelers in South Korea. It works with any device that connects to wifi like phones, laptops and tablets.
Renting a pocket wifi allows travelers to access the internet when out exploring. They can use maps, translate signs and check transit apps with just the pocket wifi, without using mobile data.
Good to know: Pocket Wifi devices are very compact and lightweight, with weight on average from 100 to 250g.
A pocket wifi broadcasts its own WiFi signal that nearby devices can connect to, just like a traditional wireless router at home. It acts as the intermediary between your device and the mobile network to provide internet access.
Most pocket WiFi devices for South Korea can share their internet connection with 3 or 5 other devices at the same time.
A pocket WiFi device for South Korea can broadcast its WiFi signal within a range of about 10-20 meters. The closer your device is to the pocket WiFi, the better the connection will be.
Important Note: Some pocket WiFi devices can only be used within certain countries or with specific mobile networks, so it's important to check prior to purchasing.
The following people should use a pocket wifi for South Korea:
Here are when you should use a pocket WiFi for South Korea:
Good to know: Some premium pocket WiFi devices may include an Ethernet port, allowing users to directly connect their device via a cable for the fastest internet speeds possible.
The batteries of a Korean pocket WiFi device last from 6 to 24 hours (thanks to a free included power bank).
Pro Tip:
Here are the key benefits of renting a pocket wifi for travel in South Korea:
There are 5 ways to connect to the Internet while traveling in South Korea.
Here we compare pocket wifi to 04 other options that help you make an informed decision about pocket wifi South Korea rental.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
| Prepaid data SIM cards | Potentially cheaper for longer stays | Requires changing device settings, may not support your network, lower data allowance than pocket wifi plans |
| Prepaid eSIM | 100% online, simple to buy, setup and use. A wide range of plans for different needs and budgetPotentially cheaper for longer stays | Limited phone models with eSIM technology |
| Roaming on cellular plan | Familiar cellular serviceNo need to change SIM | Extremely high costs in Korea, not cost effective for travelers |
| Free public WiFi | No direct costs | Limited coverage, requires registration with Korean numbers only, unreliable speed and reliability |
| Pocket WiFi rental | Easy to use, share connection, keep your number, unlimited high-speed data, wide coverage, cheaper than roaming | Extra device to carryNeed to be return at the end of your trip |
In conclusion, which one is best for staying connected in South Korea depends completely on your needs. However, below we still give some of our conclusions based on the average needs of tourists.
▶ Our recommendation:
Here are some key benefits of using a prepaid South Korea eSIM as an alternative to pocket wifi:
▶ Our recommendation: For your South Korea trip, we would suggest considering Gigago eSIM. They offer multiple data plan options for South Korea, starting from a 3-day plan with 1GB of data per day for $5.90 as their most minimal plan. They also have 5-day, 7-day, 10-day, 15-day, 20-day, and 30-day plans ranging from 1GB to unlimited data per day, with prices from $5.90 up to $106.50. Their data plans work on Korea’s largest networks. Activation is simple via a a QR code. This allows convenient, cost-effective connectivity through your existing phone without any extra pocket Wifi device.
To see more details about plan features and setup, visit Gigago eSIM for South Korea.
Renting a pocket Wifi device for South Korea is quick and easy.
Here are 02 popular ways to get a pocket WiFi device for travel in South Korea:
Note: Most providers have a small map to show their location. So you can easily find the service stand when arriving.
Insight: Pre-booking online is generally the best way as it saves time spent researching and arranging rental upon arrival in Korea. The device will already be reserved and you can proceed to baggage claim faster.
Insight: This is not a preferred way to rent a portable wifi because after a flight travelers are often a little drowsy and they just want to get out of the airport as fast as possible. The last thing they want to do is to run around to find and compare different options for connecting to the Internet.
Below is a quick comparison on two booking methods to rent a Wifi egg in South Korea:
| Booking Method | Pros | Cons |
| Pre-book online | Saves time on arrival, device ready immediately | Must plan rental in advance |
| Upon arrival | More flexibility if dates change | May have limited options, take longer |
In conclusion, pre-booking your pocket WiFi for Korea online 1-2 weeks before travel ensures you get your first choice of device and plan without wasting time at the airport.
Only consider renting upon arrival if last-minute travel prevents advance booking.
▶ Our recommendation: If you want to use a pocket WiFi device during your trip, it is best to rent it online before your travel date. Booking ahead means the device will be ready for pickup at the airport. Pre-booking your pocket WiFi is convenient and ensures a seamless start to your vacation.
Most pocket wifi devices provided by rental companies in South Korea can connect 3 devices at once. Some models allow up to 5 simultaneous connections.
The daily cost of renting a pocket wifi in South Korea typically ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 Korean Won. This is equivalent to around $2-3 USD per day.
Some factors that can affect the pocket wifi rental price include:
Pro Tip: Always compare prices factoring in these elements to get the best value rental
The most popular pocket wifi providers for travelers to South Korea are:
▶ Our recommendation:
Here are simple steps to setup and use a pocket WiFi in South Korea:
Note:
You can rent a pocket WiFi for up to 30 days.
There are no limitations on the amount of data you can use with South Korea pocket WiFi. However, you should be aware that some countries have data caps in place, so you may be charged extra if you exceed your limit.
Some popular pocket WiFi providers in Korea that offer affordable unlimited data plans include:
– KT Olleh: unlimited data for ₩29,900 per month.
– SK Telecom: unlimited data for ₩34,900 per month.
– LG Uplus: unlimited data for ₩39,900 per month.
These prices are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to compare the latest plans from different providers before making a decision.
Pocket wifi is definitely worth using for travelers to South Korea. Besides familiar wi-fi connectivity, it allows roaming with family and friends easily. An alternative to pocket wifi in South Korea for travelers is a prepaid physical SIM card or eSIM, but few offer data plans for groups. eSIM is cheap if phones support it, but always check eSIM compatibility first to avoid issues. In conclusion, pocket wifi provides excellent versatile internet access across Korea through an affordable rental, highly recommended for traveling groups and families.
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