Buying SKT South Korea SIM cards & eSIMs: Detailed Guide

Daisy Rodriguez

|

Published: December 2024

SKT South Korea SIM cards & eSIMs are your key to staying connected during your South Korean adventure.

With their outstanding network coverage and high-speed connections, SKT South Korea SIM cards & eSIMs are designed to keep tourists connected easily. This guide provides everything you need to know, from available options and pricing to where to purchase and how to top up your plan, ensuring a lovely experience throughout your journey. 

I. Overview of SKT South Korea – What you need to know

SK Telecom is South Korea’s largest wireless telecommunications provider, offering mobile, internet, and digital services. Here are some key points about it: 

Foundation: Established in 1984 as Korea Mobile Telecommunications Services Corp., renamed SK Telecom in 1997.

Popularity:

• Primarily operates in South Korea.
• Engages in international partnerships, including joint ventures in several countries.
• Over 31 million subscribers in South Korea as of 2023.
• Holds approximately 48% market share, ranking as the #1 mobile carrier in South Korea.

Coverage:

• Extensive coverage across South Korea, including major cities like Seoul, Busan, Incheon, and Daegu.
• Some coverage limitations in remote mountainous regions.
• Launched the world’s first national 5G network in April 2019.

Speed:

• Known for high-speed networks.
• Average 5G download speeds are among the fastest globally.
• Consistently ranked as a leader in 5G network performance.

Highlights:

• First to launch a national 5G service globally in April 2019.
• Merged with SK Broadband in 2015 to expand fixed-line services.
• A pioneer in AI, metaverse development, and 6G research in South Korea. 

II. SKT Coverage in South Korea

Source: nperf.com

SKT offers one of the most extensive network coverages in South Korea, covering 99% of the country’s populated areas. Its strongest coverage is in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, ensuring reliable connectivity for urban travelers. 

SKT also provides excellent coverage across smaller cities and key regions like Jeju Island, though some remote mountainous areas may experience limited signals. Their 5G network currently covers about 85% of the population, making it a top choice for high-speed internet access.

III. SKT Speed in South Korea

Source: Opensignal 

SKT is known for its outstanding mobile network speed, consistently ranking as one of the fastest in South Korea. Its 5G network delivers impressive performance, with download speeds averaging 157.1 Mbps and upload speeds around 20.1 Mbps (June 2023). 

These figures ensure smooth streaming, gaming, and video calls, making it a reliable choice for both residents and travelers. With such speeds, SKT stands out as a leader in mobile connectivity, even in high-demand urban areas.

IV. Types of SKT South Korea SIM Card Options for Tourists

SK Telecom (SKT) offers two primary SIM card options for tourists visiting South Korea:

• Physical SIM Cards
• eSIMs (Embedded SIMs)

Comparison of SKT SIM Card Options for Tourists

From this table, we can easily conclude that eSIMs are more convenient for tourists due to instant activation, digital handling, and the fact that there is no need for a physical card. However, ensure your phone supports eSIM before choosing this option.

V. Top SKT South Korea SIM cards for Tourists & Prices

SK Telecom provides a variety of prepaid PPS SIM card options tailored specifically for tourists exploring Korea.

These plans do not have registration fees or monthly charges. To sign up effortlessly, simply present a valid passport.

VI. Where to buy SKT South Korea SIM cards for tourists?

You can buy an SKT SIM card in 3 ways – at the airports, in the city and even before your departure! Let’s explore each option in detail.

1. Buy SKT SIM Cards at South Korean Airports

Buy a South Korea SIM at Incheon Airport 

Upon arrival, you can conveniently buy an SKT SIM card at major international airports:

• Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1): SKT Roaming Center near Gate 13, 1st Floor Arrivals Hall.
• Incheon International Airport (Terminal 2): SKT Roaming Center between Gates 6 and 7, 1st Floor Arrivals Hall.
• Gimpo International Airport: SKT Roaming Center near Gate 1, 1st Floor Arrivals Hall.
• Jeju International Airport: SKT Roaming Center near Gate 5, 1st Floor Arrivals Hall.

Process:

• Requirements: Present your passport for verification.
• Pricing: Prices may be higher due to convenience.
• Considerations: Be prepared for potential queues; some counters operate 24/7, while others have specific hours.

2. Purchase in South Korean City Centers

After settling in, you can buy an SKT SIM card in major cities such as:

• Seoul: SK Telecom branches in districts like Myeong-dong and Gangnam.
• Busan: SK Telecom stores in areas like Seomyeon and Haeundae.
• Daegu: SK Telecom outlets in regions like Dongseong-ro.

Process:

• Requirements: Registration of personal information is required.
• Pricing: Generally more affordable than airport options.
• Considerations: The process may be time-consuming and less convenient for tourists.

3. Purchase Online Before Departure

Buy a South Korean SIM on kkday website 

Consider buying an SKT SIM card online for a proactive and convenient approach before your trip.

How to Buy:

• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and eBay offer SKT SIM cards.
• Travel SIM Providers: Specialized sites sell SIM cards compatible with SKT’s network.

Process:

• Requirements: Typically, only basic information such as name, phone number, and shipping address is needed.
• Delivery: The SIM card is shipped to your address before departure.
• Pricing: Often more reasonable compared to on-site purchases.
• Considerations: This method is favored for its convenience and cost-effectiveness.

VII. Where to Buy SKT South Korea eSIM for Tourists?

I highly recommend buying an eSIM from a third-party provider because it will avoid facing complicated buying processes.  For South Korea, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB/day for 3 days with $5.90 .

What is great about Gigago South Korea eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.90 – $106.50 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in South Korea; there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VIII. How to top up SKT South Korea SIM Card?

Topping up your SK Telecom (SKT) SIM card in South Korea is straightforward and can be done through several convenient methods:

1. Convenience Stores

• Visit major chains like CU, 7-Eleven, or GS25.
• Purchase a top-up voucher by paying in cash.
• Follow the instructions on the voucher to add credit to your SIM.

2. SK Telecom App:

• Download and install the SK Telecom app on your smartphone.
• Register your SIM card within the app.
• Use an international credit or debit card to add credit directly through the app.

3. Online Top-Up Services:

• Utilize online platforms such as Travelsimtopup or KoreaWifiTopup.
• Enter your SKT phone number and select the desired top-up amount.
• Complete the payment using your preferred method.

IX. FAQs about SKT South Korea SIM Cards & eSIMs

X. Conclusion

I hope you find this post about SKT South Korea SIM cards & eSIMs helpful when planning your trip. Whether you need a physical SIM card or the convenience of an eSIM, SKT offers reliable options to stay connected effortlessly. Enjoy exploring South Korea with uninterrupted connectivity!