Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination off the southern coast of South Korea. With stunning natural scenery, interesting cultural sights, and excellent infrastructure, it’s no wonder over 15 million tourists visit Jeju each year.
However, as a foreign tourist, staying connected through your smartphone can be challenging. South Korea uses different mobile technology standards than most countries, so your home SIM card may not work on the island.
The good news is that purchasing a local prepaid SIM card in Jeju is easy, affordable, and gives you access to fast, reliable 4G/LTE service during your stay. This comprehensive guide shares insider tips on the best SIM card options, where to buy them, and key things to know before getting a Jeju SIM card.
Table of Contents
I. Which Mobile Operator is the Best in Jeju?
Based on Opensignal’s latest South Korea Mobile Network Experience Report, SK Telecom continues to lead the market when it comes to overall connectivity. The report found SK Telecom won both new coverage experience awards – Coverage Experience and 5G Coverage Experience. Coverage Experience measures the availability of a network across populated areas, while 5G Coverage Experience specifically measures 5G coverage.
With a score of 9.4 out of 10 for Coverage Experience, SK Telecom had the most extensive network coverage across South Korea. It also took first place for 5G Coverage Experience with a score of 6.8, indicating it provides the widest 5G coverage for Jeju visitors with 5G devices. SK Telecom’s nationwide leadership in coverage makes it the most reliable choice for staying connected throughout Jeju Island.
Unlock more insights on South Korea Mobile Operators: Which One is the Best?
II. Best Jeju SIM Cards and Cost
Based on the network comparison, here are my top recommended prepaid SIM cards to purchase on Jeju Island:
| SIM Card | Network | Key Features | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Korea SIM Blue Plus | KT | Unlimited data, calls and texts. 10GB full speed LTE data per month. Various validity periods up to 90 days. | From $16.4 for 7 days (18% OFF online) |
| Korea eSIM Red | SK Telecom | Unlimited data at 20Mbps. Validity periods from 1-30 days. Number and additional features if picked up at airport. | From $3.5 for 1 day (32.1% OFF online) |
| Korea SIM Gold | SK Telecom | Same as eSIM Red but physical SIM. | From $10.1 for 3 days (25.9% OFF online) |
| Korea eSIM Sky | LG U+ | 3GB full speed then unlimited at 5Mbps. Validity from 5-60 days. Number for incoming calls/texts on iPhones. | From $16.4 for 5 days (13.1% OFF online) |
In summary, there are several good options for prepaid SIM cards when traveling to Jeju Island, South Korea. The major networks KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+ all have offerings like Korea SIM Blue Plus, Korea eSIM Red, and Korea eSIM Sky that provide generous data allowances and occasionally call/text features. Purchasing these online in advance often saves money compared to picking up at the airport.
III. Where to Buy a SIM Card in Jeju
There are a couple convenient options to purchase a prepaid SIM card once you reach Jeju Island:
1. Upon Arrival at Jeju International Airport
- KT and SK Telecom have shops airside at arrival hall
- Open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM
- Can purchase SIM and have activated before leaving airport
I recommend stopping at the KT or SK Telecom store after you land at Jeju International Airport. Here you can buy a SIM, have your passport verified, and get service activated immediately. Avoid any hassle by getting connected as soon as you land.
Get the inside scoop on Where to Buy a SIM Card at Jeju Airport
2. At Convenience Stores in the City
-Major chains like CU, 7-Eleven, and GS25 sell prepaid SIMs -Bring passport to register SIM card in your name
If you missed the airport shops, don’t worry! Once you reach Jeju City, you can visit any major convenience store chain like CU, 7-Eleven, or GS25 and find prepaid SIM cards from KT, SK Telecom, and LG Uplus there. Just remember to bring your passport to properly register the SIM card.
No matter which shop or location you purchase your Jeju SIM card, the process only takes a few minutes to complete. Just look for signage indicating prepaid SIM sales counters within the stores. Prices are fixed so shopping around isn’t necessary.
IV. eSIM for Travelers to Jeju – A Smart Alternative
While plastic physical SIM cards still dominate, eSIM technology has started emerging in South Korea.
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that gets installed directly on your smartphone without needing a physical nano-SIM. Services like esimkr.com allow travelers to purchase an eSIM data package for Jeju online before their trip. Once you receive the activation QR code via email, installing it on your device takes just a few taps.
Some key benefits of using esimkr.com‘s Jeju eSIM include:
- Instant activation on arrival. No wasted time looking for a store or dealing with paperwork at the airport. You can get online right away.
- Wide range of data package durations ranging from 3 days to 1 month to suit your trip length.
- Competitive prices from just $5 for shorter durations. Plans include generous daily data allowances.
- Works on all major devices including iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel and more.hassle-free connectivity throughout your trip without worrying about swapping SIM cards.
- No roaming charges within Jeju. You stay connected with the best local network and rates.
So if you’re planning a trip to Jeju or Seoul, do consider esimkr.com as a smart alternative to physical SIM cards. Experience fuss-free cellular data without breaking the bank thanks to their affordable and convenient Jeju eSIM options.
Plans that may interest you
V. Things to Prepare when Buying SIM Cards in Jeju
To ensure the process of getting a Jeju SIM card goes smoothly, here are three tips:
Passport or alien registration card
You will need to show your passport or ARC (alien registration card) to purchase a prepaid SIM card. Make sure to bring the original with you.
Have cash ready
While some stores may accept credit cards, you’ll need cash in Korean won to purchase a SIM card. Banks at the airport can exchange money before your trip.
Know your phone’s compatibility
Make sure your phone/device is unlocked and supports the LTE network bands used in Korea, especially bands 1, 3, and 8. Some US carriers may need to whitelist IMEI numbers upon return.
As long as you come prepared with your passport, cash, and a compatible device, purchasing a Jeju SIM card is quick and uncomplicated.
VI. Tips and Recommendations
Here are a few extra pointers to get the most out of your Jeju SIM card experience:
- When choosing data amounts, estimate generously as it’s easy to run out quickly while navigating and sharing photos/videos as a tourist.
- Verify the SIM card is activated and data is working before leaving the shop to avoid issues.
- Store emergency contacts like your accommodation on your phone before leaving home, as you’ll have a new local number.
- Set up apps like Google Maps and KakaoMetro for navigation and transit before arriving.
- Connect your phone to hotel/accommodation WiFi whenever possible to conserve your SIM data amounts.
VII. FAQs about Buying a SIM Card in Jeju
Where can I buy a prepaid SIM card in Jeju?
You can purchase prepaid SIM cards from KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+ at Jeju International Airport. Some other options include NeoKOSIM/Link Korea outlets and convenience stores like CU and 7-Eleven around the airport and in Jeju City.
Which networks work best in Jeju?
All three major networks – KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+ – provide good coverage across Jeju Island. KT and SK Telecom in particular have nationwide networks that cover Jeju well with 3G/HSPA+ and 4G/LTE.
What kinds of prepaid SIM cards are available?
Common options include data-only SIMs, SIMs with fixed amounts of data/minutes valid for a set period (5-30 days usually), and rentals of voice+data SIMs that need to be returned. Korea SIM Gold/Blue from SKT/KT provide unlimited data and calls/texts for tourists.
Can I purchase a SIM card at Jeju International Airport?
Yes, KT, SK Telecom and LG U+ SIM cards can be purchased at service desks in the arrivals hall of Jeju International Airport. You may also be able to purchase from outlets of NeoKOSIM/Link Korea or convenience stores near the airport.
How long does SIM card activation take?
SIM card activation upon purchase usually takes 20-60 minutes as the device IMEI needs to be added to networks. It’s best to select a device for the SIM and tether rather than swapping SIMs between devices.
What payment methods are accepted?
SIM cards can generally be purchased using major credit/debit cards, including those issued outside of Korea. Some physical stores may accept cash in Korean Won as well.
VIII. Conclusion
Getting set up with a prepaid SIM card should be at the top of your to-do list when visiting Jeju Island. With this guide, you now know the best provider options, where to conveniently purchase a SIM, key things to have, and tips to get the most out of your SIM card.
By getting connected with unlimited data and local calling, you can freely use maps, transit apps, social media, travel sites and more while exploring Jeju. With coverage across the island, you can roam seamlessly without any connectivity worries.
