South Korea, a country rich in culture and advanced technology, has a unique mobile network system that can impact connectivity for visitors. This guide will explore the details of roaming charges in South Korea, offering you the information needed to manage your mobile usage and avoid unexpected costs during your trip.

Are There Roaming Charges in South Korea?

Yes, roaming charges do apply in South Korea. When using your home network in South Korea, you are considered to be "roaming" on a foreign network, which usually results in additional fees. These charges can vary depending on your home network provider and the international plans or roaming packages you may have. To avoid excessive roaming charges, consider using a Global eSIM, which can provide a more affordable and convenient way to stay connected during your visit.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in South Korea?

Roaming charges in South Korea usually apply as soon as your device connects to a South Korean mobile network. This connection occurs automatically upon arrival unless you’ve turned off data roaming on your device. Charges can add up for various activities, such as making or receiving calls, sending or receiving text messages, and using mobile data for internet browsing. It's also important to note that even passive actions like receiving voicemails or automatic app updates can lead to roaming charges if your device is linked to a South Korean network.

Roaming Fees and Charges in South Korea

Disclaimer: Prices and plans may change over time. Be sure to verify with your provider for the most current details.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for South Korea:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Telstra (Australia): [4]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Orange (France): [5]

Orange Holiday South Korea package limited to 14 days for €25.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [6]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [7]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €2 per minute

• Receiving a call: €1 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [8]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $12 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

These numbers provide an overview of what to expect, but keep in mind that they are estimates and may vary. It's a good idea to contact your provider for the latest information.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in South Korea

To avoid roaming charges while in South Korea, follow these steps:

• Disable data roaming in your phone's settings before arriving in South Korea.

• Connect to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible for internet access.

• Use messaging apps that work over Wi-Fi for communication.

• Download offline maps and travel guides before your trip.

• Investigate eSIM options, which can offer more flexible and cost-effective data plans.

You can also check our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more tips.

Roamless eSIM for South Korea

A travel eSIM like Roamless offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for visitors to South Korea:

• No Speed Throttling: Experience full-speed data connectivity without artificial slowdowns.

• Pay-as-you-go Flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use, avoiding wastage.

• Non-expiring Funds: Your credit remains valid for future trips, eliminating the pressure to use it all at once.

• Multi-country Compatibility: Use the same eSIM across multiple countries without switching plans.

• Local Network Speeds: Connect at the same speeds as local users, ensuring a smooth online experience.

• Easy Activation: Set up your eSIM before leaving home, ensuring immediate connectivity upon arrival in South Korea.

• Cost-effective: Often more affordable than traditional roaming or local SIM options for short-term visitors.

Visit our eSIM South Korea page or read our best eSIM for South Korea article before planning your travel. By taking advantage of these features, Roamless eSIM provides an easy and affordable solution for staying connected in South Korea, allowing you to enjoy your travels without the concern of high roaming fees or the need to switch SIM cards.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/southkorea

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/mobile/global-roaming

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[5] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/south-korea

[6] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Corea%20Del%20Sur

[7] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[8] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/#southkorea

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass