Keeping in Touch in South Korea

Expats will likely find keeping in touch in South Korea a pleasant and straightforward experience. South Korea could be called the high-speed internet capital of the world. Currently, around 95 percent of the population uses smartphones. Beyond the impressive internet availability, mobile phones, landline phones and the oft-forgotten postal system are all reliable and affordable in South Korea.

The sizeable international community means several English newspapers and publications are available, many in digital form.

Internet in South Korea

Internet in South Korea ranks among the fastest in the world, consistently placing in the global top 10 for both mobile and fixed broadband speeds. Nearly every citizen has access to reliable, high-speed broadband through the extensive network of fibre optic lines across the country.

KT Corporation, SK Broadband and LG Uplus are the most prominent internet providers and offer good service at reasonable rates. Expats wanting to set up an account will need a Residence Card.

If you’re on the move, internet cafés, known as PC bangs (rooms), are still found throughout South Korea, particularly in cities, and many remain open 24 hours a day. Expats will have no trouble getting computer access when they need it, especially in urban areas. WiFi is also widely available in public spaces, including cafés, restaurants, public transport and even on many city buses.

Online censorship

South Korea blocks access to certain websites, including adult content and sites related to North Korea. Most everyday websites and services work without issue. Many expats use VPNs to access streaming services from their home countries, and VPN use is legal in South Korea.

Useful links

• Seoul Free WiFi

Mobile phones in South Korea

Mobile phones in South Korea are by far the most popular means of communication. There are three main mobile operators: SK Telecom, Korea Telecom (KT) and LG Uplus. All three offer exceptional customer service that is available in English.

Affordable contracts are available alongside prepaid options. Many expats sign up for a two-year contract with minimal call time and unlimited data. If you leave before your contract finishes, you can pass it on to someone else, usually another expat who has just arrived, or simply cancel for a fee.

To sign up for a contract or a prepaid phone, an expat will need their Residence Card and passport. If you don’t speak Korean, set up your agreement in Seoul, where employees are more likely to speak English.

South Korea has excellent 5G coverage across most of the country, with all three operators offering 5G services. eSIM options are now available for those staying short-term, making it easier to get connected without a physical SIM card.

Useful links

• SK Telecom
• KT Corporation
• LG U+ Global
• KT eSIM

Postal services in South Korea

Postal services in South Korea have maintained their efficiency despite the country’s digital connectivity. International postage is not outrageously expensive, and postcards can easily be sent in bulk without costing too much. Many expats choose to receive packages at work so they can sign for them, although packages are also delivered to homes and apartment buildings.

As a direct result of South Korea’s strong economy and the presence of large multinational companies, courier services within South Korea are fast and reliable. Many international courier companies, such as FedEx and DHL have offices in the country, alongside local options like CJ Logistics.

Useful links

• Korea Post
• FedEx South Korea
• DHL South Korea
• CJ Logistics

English-language media in South Korea

As a result of the large expat community, English-language media in South Korea is widely available. There are some printed national newspapers that are distributed in larger cities, including The Korea Herald and The Korea Times, which also have English websites.

Beyond the major dailies, several online news sources provide English coverage of Korean affairs. The Korea JoongAng Daily publishes in partnership with The New York Times, whilst Yonhap News Agency offers comprehensive wire service coverage. Online editions of Korean-language papers like The Chosun Ilbo and Hankyoreh also maintain English sections.

Streaming services, including Netflix and Disney+, are widely available in South Korea, offering extensive English-language content alongside Korean programming. Various online communities and forums provide news, advice and networking opportunities for the international community. KBS World Radio broadcasts English-language programming and podcasts covering Korean current affairs.

Useful links

• The Korea Herald
• The Korea Times
• Korea JoongAng Daily
• Yonhap News Agency