eSIM vs Pocket WiFi: Which is better for travelers?

eSIM is the most convenient internet connection option when traveling to Korea, helping you access the internet as soon as you land without having to change the physical SIM. From only 45,000 VND, you can receive a QR code, activate online and use the network of SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+ – the strongest networks in Korea.

When choosing an eSIM, you need to consider data capacity, package duration, network speed and device compatibility. In addition, choosing to buy from a reputable supplier will ensure a smooth activation process, avoiding errors or bandwidth limitations. In this article, let’s learn about the prices of popular eSIM packages, the advantages and disadvantages of each network, and experience buying a reliable eSIM to help you always have a smooth connection throughout your trip to Korea.

I. What is an eSIM for traveling to Korea?

eSIM for traveling to Korea is an electronic SIM eSIM built into the phone, allowing connection to local carriers such as SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+ via QR code or activation code – no need to remove the main SIM and install a new SIM.

5 benefits of using eSIM when traveling to Korea include:

Buy and activate online in minutes.
Connect to the internet immediately upon landing.
Keep the main Vietnamese SIM (still receive OTP, SMS, calls).
Save 60–80% compared to international roaming.
Can install multiple eSIMs and turn them on/off flexibly.

II. Why should you choose eSIM instead of physical SIM when traveling to Korea?

Compared to physical SIM, eSIM has many outstanding advantages as compared in the following table:

Advantages of Korean eSIM Physical Korean SIM
Settings Scan QR code Manual SIM replacement
Usage Keep main Vietnam SIM Temporarily lose main SIM
Activation time 1–3 minutes 30–60 minutes (purchase at the airport)
Price From 45,000 VND Higher, usually 100,000 VND+
Convenient Can be used for many countries One SIM for one country

Thus, if you want to be convenient, fast, and have little risk, eSIM is the best choice for your trip to Korea.

III. 7 criteria for choosing the right eSIM for traveling to Korea

To buy the right Korean eSIM package, you need to pay attention to the following 7 main criteria:

1. Which network is best for Korean eSIM?

You should choose an eSIM using one of the three major networks: SK Telecom (SKT), KT (Olleh) or LG U+.

Which Korean network is best for tourist destinations?

Travel Area Recommended Network
Seoul (Myeongdong, Gangnam, Hongdae) SKT or KT
Busan (Haeundae, Gamcheon) SKT > KT > LG U+
Jeju Island SKT or KT
Mountainous Areas (Nami, Seoraksan) KT
DMZ, Border SKT or KT

► If you want the most stable connection during your trip to Korea, choose SK Telecom or KT.

2. Should you choose a local or regional eSIM?

Depending on the nature of your trip, you can choose to buy one of two types of packages: a local eSIM or a regional eSIM.

eSIM Type Coverage Suitable for Whom Price
Korean eSIM Only used in Korea Domestic travelers Cheapest
Asian or regional eSIM Used in many countries (Korea, Japan, Thailand, etc.) Transit travelers, travelers to many countries Higher

► If you only go to Korea, choose a local eSIM, cheap but high speed.

3. How much data capacity is enough?

Choose the capacity according to your actual needs. You can calculate data based on the following formula:

Data needed = Number of travel days × Daily usage

Needs Usage/day Package to choose
Basic (maps, chat, light social networking) 1–2GB 3–5GB (3–5 days)
Medium (watch videos, post) 3GB 10–20GB (7 days)
Heavy (hotspot, remote work) 5GB+ 30–40GB or Unlimited

Actual statistics:

78% of travelers use less than 25GB for a 7-day trip.
Unlimited package is only necessary for 15-20% of users with high needs.

4. How many days should you choose for eSIM?

Korean eSIM has many options for the number of days of use, commonly 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 30 days. Choose a plan 1–2 days longer than your trip to accommodate flights or schedule changes.

5. Korean eSIM network speed and stability

Prioritize eSIMs that support 4G LTE or 5G. Major carriers in Korea have average 4G/LTE download speeds (from 40–80 Mbps). This speed is fast enough for most users. Only choose 5G if you use a high-end device or need to livestream or work online.

6. Additional features to consider

There are usually 4 additional features in each Korean eSIM package depending on the provider:

Korean phone number: Used for domestic calls, restaurant reservations, or receiving OTP (Naver, KakaoTalk).
Hotspot sharing: Useful when traveling in groups, using laptops, or working remotely.
Online renewal/recharge: Many eSIMs support top-ups via web/app.
FUP after using a lot of data: “Unlimited” packages often slow down after 20–40GB/day – so read the description carefully before buying.

7. How much does a Korean eSIM cost?

Korean eSIM prices range from 45,000 – more than 2,000,000 VND, depending on capacity and duration.

IV. Where to buy a reputable Korean eSIM?

1. How to buy a Korean eSIM online

When buying a Korean eSIM online, you need to follow these 5 steps:

Choose a reputable supplier: Gigago.vn, Airalo, Holafly,…
Choose a package according to the number of days and capacity.
Pay with VND or an international card.
Receive a QR code in your email after 5 minutes.
Scan the code to activate, ready to use immediately upon arrival in Korea.

2. Compare Popular Korean eSIM Providers

Provider Key Features Price from Supported Languages
Gigago.vn – Various Payment Methods