How to Sign a Phone Contract in Korea (Prepaid vs. Postpaid)

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Getting a Korean SIM Card and Mobile Plan

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1. Can Foreigners Sign a Phone Contract in Korea?

Yes! Foreigners can sign up for either prepaid or postpaid (contract) mobile plans in Korea — depending on their visa type and stay duration.

You’ll need:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC)

• Korean address and phone number

• Korean bank account (for postpaid)

💡 Without an ARC, you're limited to prepaid SIMs (short-term use only).

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2. Prepaid vs. Postpaid: What’s the Difference?

Plan Type	Best For	Requirements	Payment
Prepaid	Tourists, short-term students	Passport only	Recharge before use
Postpaid (후불)	Long-term residents	ARC, bank account	Monthly billing

📱 Prepaid is flexible but more expensive per GB. Postpaid offers better rates and perks.

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3. How to Get a Prepaid SIM Card

Perfect for visitors or short stays:

• Available at:

  • Incheon Airport booths

  • Convenience stores

  • Online retailers (EG SIM, KT M Mobile, Chingu Mobile)

🛠 Setup Steps:

1. Bring your passport

2. Choose a data or voice + data plan

3. Insert SIM into your phone

4. Register your number via the provider’s site

📝 Most prepaid SIMs are valid for 5 to 90 days.

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4. How to Get a Postpaid Mobile Contract

Ideal for long-term stay (6+ months):

• Go to a telecom store (SK, KT, LG U+)

• Bring:

  • ARC

  • Passport

  • Korean bankbook or debit card

  • Korean phone number (if transferring)

📲 Some stores require 1–3 months of Korean residency or visa duration proof.

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5. Contract Length and Device Options

• SIM-only plan: Use your own unlocked device

• Device + plan: Pay monthly for a phone and service

  • Typical contract: 24 or 36 months

  • Early cancellation fees may apply

🛒 Some major retailers offer foreigner-friendly bundles with flexible terms.

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6. Monthly Cost Estimates (2025)

Plan	Monthly Cost	Data Limit
Budget SIM plan	KRW 15,000–30,000	1–5GB
Unlimited data	KRW 45,000–75,000	Unlimited
SIM + device plan	KRW 80,000–120,000	Varies by phone model

💡 Ask about promotions or student discounts at the store.

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7. Useful Korean Phrases at the Phone Store

• “후불 요금제 신청하고 싶어요.” — I’d like to apply for a postpaid plan.

• “유심만 필요해요.” — I only need a SIM card.

• “외국인 등록증 있어요.” — I have an Alien Registration Card.

• “데이터 무제한 요금제 있나요?” — Do you have unlimited data plans?

• “약정 없이 가능해요?” — Can I get this without a contract?

📱 Staff at major branches often speak basic English, especially in Seoul.

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