Internet & Mobile Plans

How to sign up: You need an ARC (Alien Registration Card / 외국인등록증) to sign up for both home internet and mobile plans. Visit any provider's store (대리점) with your ARC and passport. Some stores have English-speaking staff, especially in areas like Itaewon, Hongdae, and Gangnam.

Contract terms: Home internet contracts are typically 3 years. Early termination fees can be 100,000-200,000 won depending on remaining months. Some providers offer 1-year contracts at a slightly higher monthly rate. When moving apartments, you can transfer your internet service (이전 설치) for a small fee.

Cancellation fees (위약금): If you leave Korea before your contract ends, you will owe a cancellation fee proportional to the remaining contract period. Some providers waive this if you provide proof of departure (flight ticket). Always ask about cancellation terms before signing.

Speed expectations: Korea consistently ranks among the top countries for internet speed. The advertised 1 Gbps plans typically deliver 800-950 Mbps in practice. Even the 100 Mbps plans are sufficient for streaming 4K video and working from home.

Free public WiFi: Korea has extensive free public WiFi. Look for networks like "Public WiFi Free", "KT Free WiFi", or "U+zone" in subway stations, buses, cafes, and public buildings. Most cafes provide free WiFi for customers.