Daily Life · Updated June 2026

Cheapest Phone Plans for Foreigners in Korea (2026)

A Korean phone number is essential — you need it for bank accounts, deliveries, and literally every app. Here's how to get one cheap.

Big 3 vs MVNOs

Korea has 3 major carriers and dozens of cheap MVNOs (알뜰폰):

  • Big 3: SK Telecom, KT, LG U+ — expensive but best coverage
  • MVNOs: Same network, 50~70% cheaper, some English support

Best Plans for Foreigners (2026)

ProviderDataPriceForeigner OK
헬로모바일 (Hello Mobile)11GB₩10,900✅ ARC required
리브모바일 (Liiv Mobile)15GB₩14,900✅ KB bank app
U+ 알뜰모바일Unlimited*₩25,000✅
KT (main)Unlimited₩55,000+✅ English staff
SK (main)Unlimited₩60,000+✅ English staff

* Speed throttled after fair-use threshold

How to Sign Up (Foreigner)

Option A: Big carrier store (easiest)

  1. Visit any SK/KT/LG store with your ARC + passport
  2. Tell them you want a SIM-only plan (유심 only)
  3. Sign contract, get SIM activated in 10 minutes

Option B: MVNO online (cheapest)

  1. Go to 헬로모바일 or similar MVNO website
  2. Select plan and enter ARC info
  3. SIM delivered by mail in 1~2 days
  4. Self-activate via app

Without ARC (Tourist/New Arrival)

No ARC yet? Options:

  • Airport SIM: eSIM or physical SIM at Incheon airport (data only, ₩30,000~50,000 for 30 days)
  • Chingu Mobile: Foreigner-friendly MVNO, passport-only signup available
  • eSIM apps: Airalo, Ubigi for data-only while waiting for ARC

Tips

  • MVNOs use the exact same towers as the big 3 — same quality, lower price
  • Most plans include unlimited domestic calls and texts
  • No credit check for prepaid plans
  • You can keep your number when switching providers (번호이동)
  • Contract-free plans exist — no cancellation fee