In Korea a physical SIM card is usually called a USIM. Both an eSIM and a USIM can give you the same SKT network, unlimited data and a Korean 010 number. The real difference is how you get it and set it up. Here is how to choose in under a minute.
The one-question answer
Does your phone support eSIM?
- Yes → get an eSIM (Korea eSIM Red). Install it at home, and it connects when you land.
- No, or not sure → get a USIM (Korea SIM Gold). Pick it up at the airport and the staff activate it for you.
Side-by-side
| eSIM (Korea eSIM Red) | USIM (Korea SIM Gold) | |
|---|---|---|
| How you receive it | QR code by email, right after purchase | Physical SIM, picked up at an SKT airport roaming center |
| When to set it up | Before you fly (recommended) | At the airport counter on arrival |
| What you need | Unlocked, eSIM-compatible phone | Passport and order confirmation email |
| Your home SIM | Stays in the phone (dual SIM) | Swapped out unless your phone has a second SIM option |
| Network, data, 010 number | SKT · unlimited · 010 (2+ day plans) | SKT · unlimited · 010 (2+ day plans) |
| Price | Same price | Same price |
How to check if your phone supports eSIM
- Dial *#06#. If you see an EID (a long number starting with 89), your phone supports eSIM.
- iPhone: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means it is unlocked.
- Android: you can check eSIM with *#06#, but ask your home carrier whether the phone is unlocked.
- Most iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 3a and later support eSIM. Some models sold in mainland China do not.
Why choose eSIM
- Arrive and get online immediately: no queue, no counter.
- Keep your home SIM in the phone for bank texts and calls from home.
- Install any time before departure. Your plan's time only starts when you first use mobile data in Korea.
Why choose USIM
- Works with phones that do not support eSIM.
- Staff at the SKT counter set it up for you in a few minutes.
- Good if you are not comfortable changing phone settings.
Not sure? You have a safety net
If you buy the eSIM and it will not install, you can exchange it for a physical USIM at an SKT airport roaming booth as long as the eSIM has never used data.
Next steps
- See both options with live prices on our Korea eSIM guide.
- Get Red eSIM · Get Gold USIM
Information as of October 2026.