Welcome to Jeju Island! As you arrive at Jeju International Airport, one of the first things you’ll want to do is get a local SIM card for your phone so you can have data access during your stay. In this article, we’ll go over where to buy an airport sim card at Jeju Airport, your SIM card options and costs, what you need to prepare ahead of time, using eSIM as an alternative, and answer some frequently asked questions. Read on for all the details on getting connected with a SIM in Jeju!
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Jeju Airport
There are a few main options for purchasing a SIM card once you arrive at Jeju International Airport:
- KT Mobile Store – KT is one of the major carriers in South Korea. There is a KT store located in the arrivals area of the airport, just past customs, where you can buy KT prepaid SIM cards.
- LG U+ Store – LG U+ is another major Korean carrier with a store located in the arrivals hall as well. You can pick up an Olleh prepaid SIM here.
- SK Telecom Store – SK Telecom is the third major Korean telecom provider, with a store also located past customs in the arrivals area. You can get an SK Telecom prepaid SIM.
- Convenience Stores – There are also various convenience stores like CU and 7-Eleven located throughout the airport that will sell prepaid SIMs from KT, Olleh, and SK Telecom.
- Travel SIM Kiosks – In the International Arrivals area, you’ll find little kiosks and booths selling travel SIM card packages catered for foreign tourists. These can offer good deals but shop around as prices vary.
Overall, it’s quite easy to find SIM card options in the main terminal at Jeju Airport. The hardest part is choosing which carrier and plan is best for your needs!
II. SIM Card at Jeju Airport – Options and Costs
When buying a local SIM card at Jeju Airport, you’ll have choices between the three major Korean carriers of KT, Olleh LG U+, and SK Telecom. Here’s a quick overview of what’s available from each provider:
| Provider | Data Allowance | Validity Period | Price (30 days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| KT Olleh | Unlimited 5G data | 2 weeks – 1 month | 60,000 won (~$45 USD) |
| LG U+ | Unlimited 4G/5G data | 30 days | 55,000 won (~$40 USD) |
| SK Telecom | Unlimited LTE data | Up to 30 days | 60,000 won (~$45 USD) |
| Rentafone Korea | Unlimited 4G/5G data (on KT Olleh or LG U+ network) | 30 days | 38,000 won (~$28 USD) |
When choosing your SIM in Jeju, consider data amounts versus validity period. Since Jeju is a leisure destination, most tourists find a 7-day SIM with at least 3GB data sufficient for social media, maps, web browsing etc. Also note reception can be limited in mountainous inland areas.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Jeju Airport
When purchasing a SIM card at Jeju Airport, there are a couple requirements you’ll need to prepare in advance:
- Unlocked Phone – First, ensure your phone is unlocked so you can insert a local Korean SIM. Contact your home carrier to unlock before traveling if needed.
- Passport – You will need your passport when buying a SIM card in order to register it. Photocopies are not accepted.
- Cash – Have some Korean won cash on hand. Credit cards are sometimes accepted, but cash is preferred to pay for SIM cards at the airport.
- SIM Tool – Bring a SIM card removal tool to easily switch out your home SIM for the new Korean one you purchase.
Also be sure to remove your home SIM card before landing in Jeju, so you can immediately insert your new Korean SIM once purchased. Having the above prepared will make getting a Jeju SIM card quick and hassle-free. You can buy a SIM card at Incheon International Airport (ICN).
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Jeju Airport
Another option to consider is using an eSIM for data connectivity instead of a physical plastic SIM card. An eSIM is a digital SIM technology that allows you to activate a mobile data plan remotely, without having to physically switch SIMs.
Some benefits of using eSIM in Jeju:
- Convenience – Skip waiting in line at the airport to buy a SIM, simply download your eSIM before departure.
- Dual SIM – eSIMs allow dual SIM functionality on iPhones and many Android phones. Use your regular home SIM + local data eSIM.
- Flexibility – Change data plans or switch between Korean carriers more easily with eSIM.
- Multi-Country Use – An eSIM like esimkr.com can be used globally, saving you money.
The main downsides are that eSIM options have more limited local data amounts than physical SIMs. But with the flexibility to buy multiple data packages, eSIM can be a great SIM card alternative for some travelers.
V. FAQs about Getting a SIM Card at Jeju Airport
What documentation do I need to buy a SIM card at Jeju Airport?
You need to show your passport to register any SIM card purchase in Korea, photocopies are not accepted.
How can I pay for a Jeju Airport SIM?
Cash in Korean won is preferred, but some larger SIM shops may accept credit card as well. Have won cash on hand.
Which Korean carrier has the best coverage on Jeju Island?
KT and Olleh LG U+ generally have the most extensive coverage around Jeju, with SK Telecom having some limitations inland.
Can I use my Jeju SIM card in mainland South Korea?
Yes, Korean prepaid SIMs can be used throughout the country, not just on Jeju Island.
Do the SIM cards work for calling and texting too?
Yes, prepaid SIMs include calling and texting. Data packages are the allotted amounts. Calls and texts deduct from the SIM’s base credit.
How can I recharge or top up my SIM in Jeju?
You can top up your prepaid Korean SIM at convenience stores like CU, 7-Eleven and Mini Stops located around the island.
What’s the best Jeju Airport SIM card for most tourists?
The KT or Olleh SIMs with 3GB-5GB data valid for 7-15 days are ideal for average travel needs on Jeju Island.
