Global Major Cities Guide

Guidance on setting up mobile phone plans, internet services, and understanding local providers.

Sections

1. Overview of Phone and Internet Services in South Korea

South Korea is renowned for its advanced telecommunications infrastructure, offering some of the fastest internet speeds in the world and excellent mobile network coverage, even in rural areas. In Busan, as the second-largest city in South Korea, you’ll find a wide range of options for phone and internet services, catering to both short-term visitors and long-term residents.

2. Mobile Phone Services

Types of Mobile Plans

Prepaid Plans (Pay-as-you-go):
- Ideal for short-term visitors or those who don’t want a long-term commitment.
- You pay upfront for a SIM card and recharge it with credit as needed.
- Includes options for data, calls, and texts.
- No contract required.
Postpaid Plans (Contract-based):
- Suitable for long-term residents with an Alien Registration Card (ARC).
- Requires a contract (typically 12, 24, or 36 months).
- Offers better rates for data, calls, and texts compared to prepaid plans.
- Often bundled with discounts for internet or TV services.
Unlimited Data Plans:
- Popular among heavy data users.
- Available in both prepaid and postpaid formats.
- Prices vary depending on the speed and data cap.

Costs

Prepaid SIM Cards:
- Starting at KRW 10,000–20,000 for the SIM card.
- Data plans: KRW 10,000–50,000 depending on the amount of data (e.g., 1GB to unlimited).
Postpaid Plans:
- Basic plans: KRW 30,000–50,000/month (limited data, calls, and texts).
- Unlimited data plans: KRW 60,000–100,000/month.

Recommended Service Providers

KT (Korea Telecom):
- Known for excellent coverage and fast speeds.
- Offers prepaid and postpaid plans.
- Website: www.kt.com
SK Telecom:
- South Korea’s largest telecom provider with extensive coverage.
- Offers competitive postpaid plans and family discounts.
- Website: www.sktelecom.com
LG U+ (LG Telecom):
- Known for affordable plans and good customer service.
- Offers attractive bundles with internet and TV.
- Website: www.uplus.co.kr
Budget Providers (MVNOs):
- Examples: Alittle, Tplus, and U+ Mobile.
- Cheaper prepaid and postpaid options using major providers’ networks.
- Ideal for budget-conscious users.

How to Set Up a Mobile Plan

For Visitors:
1. Purchase a prepaid SIM card at the airport (e.g., Gimhae International Airport) or convenience stores like CU or GS25.
2. Alternatively, visit telecom provider stores in Busan (e.g., KT, SKT, LG U+).
3. Provide your passport for registration.
4. Choose a plan and recharge as needed.
For Residents:
1. Obtain an Alien Registration Card (ARC) from the immigration office.
2. Visit a telecom provider’s store with your ARC, passport, and Korean bank account details (if opting for postpaid).
3. Choose a plan and sign a contract.

3. Home Internet Services

Types of Internet Plans

Fiber-Optic Broadband:
- The most common and fastest option.
- Speeds range from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
- Suitable for streaming, gaming, and heavy internet use.
Wi-Fi Dongles/Portable Wi-Fi:
- Ideal for short-term visitors or those without a fixed address.
- Provides internet on the go.
Bundled Plans:
- Combine home internet, mobile, and TV services for discounts.

Costs

Fiber-Optic Broadband:
- 100 Mbps: KRW 20,000–30,000/month.
- 500 Mbps: KRW 30,000–40,000/month.
- 1 Gbps: KRW 40,000–50,000/month.
Portable Wi-Fi:
- Rental: KRW 5,000–10,000/day.
- Monthly plans: KRW 30,000–50,000.

Recommended Providers

KT (Korea Telecom):
- Offers the fastest internet speeds and reliable service.
- Popular for home internet in Busan.
- Website: www.kt.com
SK Broadband:
- Affordable plans with good customer service.
- Website: www.skbroadband.com
LG U+:
- Known for competitive pricing and bundled deals.
- Website: www.uplus.co.kr

How to Set Up Home Internet

For Visitors:
- Rent a portable Wi-Fi device at the airport or online before arrival.
- Providers like KT and SKT offer rental services for tourists.
For Residents:
1. Obtain an Alien Registration Card (ARC).
2. Visit a provider’s store or website to sign up for a plan.
3. Provide your ARC, passport, and Korean bank account details.
4. Schedule an installation appointment (usually within 1–3 days).

4. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

Language Barrier:
- Most telecom stores in Busan have English-speaking staff, but smaller stores may not.
- Consider bringing a Korean-speaking friend or using a translation app.
Discounts:
- Students, families, and long-term residents may qualify for discounts.
- Ask about promotions or bundled deals.
Wi-Fi Availability:
- Free public Wi-Fi is widely available in Busan, especially in cafes, subway stations, and tourist areas.
- Look for “Public Wi-Fi Free” networks.
SIM Card Expiry:
- Prepaid SIM cards for visitors often expire after 30 days. Recharge or extend the validity if needed.
ID Requirements:
- An Alien Registration Card (ARC) is mandatory for postpaid plans and home internet contracts.
- Visitors can only access prepaid options.
Roaming:
- If you’re visiting from abroad, check if your home carrier offers affordable roaming plans in South Korea. Alternatively, a local SIM card is usually cheaper.

5. Summary Table

| Service | Visitor | Resident | |----------------------|--------------------------------------|---------------------------------------| | Mobile Plan | Prepaid SIM (KRW 10,000–50,000) | Postpaid (KRW 30,000–100,000/month) | | Home Internet | Portable Wi-Fi (KRW 5,000–10,000/day) | Fiber Broadband (KRW 20,000–50,000/month) | | Providers | KT, SKT, LG U+, Budget MVNOs | KT, SK Broadband, LG U+ | | Setup | Passport required | ARC, passport, bank account required |

By following this guide, you’ll be able to easily set up phone and internet services in Busan, whether you’re staying for a short visit or planning to live there long-term. Let me know if you need further assistance!