How to Set Up Wi-Fi or Internet at Home in Korea

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Getting Fast, Reliable Internet in Korea


1. Is It Easy to Get Internet at Home in Korea?

Yes! Korea is known for its ultra-fast and affordable internet.

Setting up Wi-Fi at home is simple — even for foreigners — as long as you have:

  • A Korean address

  • An ARC (Alien Registration Card)

  • A Korean phone number

  • (Optional) Korean bank account for monthly billing

📡 Expect speeds of 500 Mbps to 1 Gbps with most standard plans.

2. Major Internet Providers in Korea

The top three companies are:

  • KT (Olleh) – Most reliable, widespread coverage

  • SK Broadband – Great for bundle deals with mobile plans

  • LG U+ – Often offers cheaper deals for students or new subscribers

🛜 All offer home Wi-Fi + IPTV bundles if you want TV as well.

3. How to Sign Up for Home Internet

You can sign up:

  • At a provider branch (bring ARC and phone number)

  • Through a telecom agent (they often speak some English)

  • Online – Some services have English-language pages

  • Through your landlord – Many one-room apartments offer pre-installed internet

💡 Use websites like 인터넷비교.net or ask in expat Facebook groups for foreigner-friendly agents.

4. Required Documents and Info

To apply, prepare:

  • Alien Registration Card (ARC)

  • Korean phone number

  • Residential address

  • Bank account info (for automatic payments)

📝 Some contracts require a 1- or 3-year agreement. Early cancellation may include penalties.

5. Installation Process & Timeline

  1. Choose a provider and plan

  2. Submit your info

  3. Schedule a home installation appointment

  4. Technician visits your home, sets up modem/router

  5. You sign a service agreement form

📆 Installation usually happens within 2–3 days of signing up.

🛠 The technician will configure your Wi-Fi, set a password, and help test speed.

6. Monthly Cost Estimates (2025)

Plan Type Speed Monthly Price (KRW)
Basic 100 Mbps 22,000–27,000
Standard 500 Mbps 30,000–36,000
Gigabit 1 Gbps 38,000–45,000

🔗 Discounts available if you bundle with mobile phone, TV, or pay annually.

7. Useful Korean Phrases When Signing Up

  • “인터넷 설치하고 싶어요.” — I want to install home internet.

  • “약정 기간은 어떻게 돼요?” — What is the contract length?

  • “기가 와이파이 되나요?” — Do you offer gigabit Wi-Fi?

  • “설치비 포함인가요?” — Is installation included in the price?

  • “영어 가능한 기사님 있나요?” — Is there an English-speaking technician?

📱Use Papago to read contracts and verify billing details.


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