The e-Arrival Card is a digital entry system introduced by South Korea on February 24, 2025, to replace traditional paper-based arrival cards. It is designed to streamline the immigration process, reduce wait times, and enhance convenience for foreign travelers.
Key Features of the e-Arrival Card

1. Who Needs It?

• Most foreign travelers visiting South Korea for short-term stays (up to 90 days) must complete the e-Arrival Card.
• Exemptions include:
• Holders of a valid K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization).
• Registered foreign residents in Korea.
• Airline crew members.
• Travelers on group visas.

2. How to Submit

The e-Arrival Card can be submitted online up to three days before arrival via the official website (www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr) using a PC or smartphone.
• Required information includes:
• Passport details (photo upload or manual entry).
• Travel information (flight number, arrival date, accommodation address).
• Purpose of visit and occupation.

3. Validity

• Once submitted, the e-Arrival Card is valid for 72 hours. If you fail to enter Korea within this timeframe, you will need to resubmit it.

4. Cost and Convenience

• The service is free of charge and does not require approval.
• There is no need to print the card; immigration officers can access the submitted details electronically. However, travelers may save a PDF or screenshot for reference.

5. Transition Period

• Until December 2025, both paper-based and digital arrival cards are accepted. Starting January 2026, only the e-Arrival Card will be valid.

Why Use It?

The e-Arrival Card simplifies entry into South Korea by allowing travelers to pre-submit their information, reducing processing times at immigration checkpoints and ensuring a smoother travel experience.

Download and read the details about E-Arrival Card for your smooth arrival to South Korea

Are you tired of fumbling with cash, struggling with payment apps, and getting confused by Korea’s transportation system? WOWPASS is the game-changing solution you need for your Seoul adventure! As a local Seoul guide who takes travelers beyond the typical tourist traps, I’m sharing the freshest insights about this must-have travel card based on 2025’s most comprehensive guides.

What is WOWPASS and Why Every Seoul Explorer Needs One

WOWPASS is the buzzing all-in-one travel card designed specifically for international visitors like you. It’s quickly become “one of the most talked-about options” for navigating Korea in 2025, and for good reason! This card solves all the common payment headaches travelers face:

• 💳 Works like a local Visa card at virtually ALL stores throughout Korea
• 🚇 Functions as a T-money transportation card for subway, bus, and taxi rides
• 💱 Eliminates currency exchange hassles with support for 16+ different currencies
• 💰 Helps you avoid high foreign transaction fees with better exchange rates than airports
• 🔒 Protects your money with app-based management if your card gets lost
• ✨ Offers cashback rewards when you register through the app

As someone who guides international travelers through Seoul’s hidden gems daily, I can confirm that WOWPASS makes exploring authentic Seoul infinitely easier and safer than juggling multiple cards and cash!

Where Can You Use Your WOWPASS in Seoul?

The dual functionality of WOWPASS is what makes it amazing for exploring beyond the tourist zones:

WOWPASS Balance (Visa Prepaid Function):

• Trendy cafés in Seongsu-dong and Euljiro
• Local restaurants serving authentic Korean food
• Independent boutiques in Hongdae and Garosu-gil
• Beauty stores for your K-beauty hauls
• Hidden gem attractions off the tourist path
• Taxis when you’re too tired to walk more
• Medical clinics if needed during your stay
• Basically ANYWHERE a credit card is accepted in Korea!

T-money Balance (Tap Method):

• Seoul Metro subway system
• City buses throughout Seoul
• Convenience stores for late-night snacks
• Storage lockers at popular attractions

❌ Where You Can’t Use WOWPASS:

• Online shopping or food delivery apps
• Street food vendors who only accept cash
• KTX train tickets over 50,000 KRW

How to Get Your WOWPASS Card in Seoul

Getting your hands on a WOWPASS card is super easy in 2025 with around 140 kiosk locations nationwide:

Option 1: Pre-order Online (Recommended!)

Pre-ordering through platforms like Klook or KKday often gets you:

• Discounted or waived issuance fee
• Skip-the-line pickup at busy airports
• Sometimes bonus credit loaded on the card
• Just enter your voucher code at any kiosk under “Issue via Code”

Option 2: Airport Pickup

Head straight to a WOWPASS machine upon arrival at:

• Incheon Airport Terminal 2 Station (CU convenience store, Branch #3)
• Gimpo Airport (on the passageway to the subway)
• Jeju Airport (both international and domestic terminals)

Option 3: Throughout Seoul

Find WOWPASS machines at major tourist hot spots:

• Popular subway stations near attractions
• Tourist neighborhoods like Myeong-dong and Hongdae
• Major hotels frequented by international guests

Pro Tip: Download the WOWPASS app before your trip to locate the nearest kiosk using the in-app map!

How to Load Money on Your WOWPASS

One of the BIGGEST advantages of WOWPASS is the multiple ways to add funds – no more hunting down currency exchanges or ATMs!

Option 1: Cash at WOWPASS Machines

• Insert bills in YOUR OWN CURRENCY (16+ currencies supported!)
• Get competitive exchange rates (better than most airport exchanges)
• No exchange fees – what you insert is what you get in KRW value
• Perfect for using up leftover foreign bills from your home country

Option 2: Mobile App Recharge

• Link your international credit card to the app
• Add funds anytime, anywhere (even when you’re out exploring)
• Track your spending in real-time
• Enjoy small cashback rewards (around 0.5%) on foreign currency top-ups

Option 3: Convenience Store Top-ups

• Recharge the T-money portion at any convenience store
• Use Korean Won cash if you have it
• Quick and available 24/7 (perfect for late night adventures)

Remember: WOWPASS maintains two separate balances – one for transit (T-money) and one for regular spending (Visa prepaid). You can transfer between them in the app!

Important WOWPASS Fees and Limits to Know

Fees:

• 💰 Initial card fee: 5,000 KRW (non-refundable)
• 💰 Cash withdrawal fee: 1,000 KRW per transaction
• 💰 Card reissue fee: 3,000 KRW if lost or damaged

No Fees For:

• Currency exchange (unlike banks that charge 3-5%)
• Card payments anywhere in Korea
• Recharging your balance
• Annual maintenance
• Account management via the app

Limits:

• WOWPASS balance limit: Up to 1,000,000 KRW
• Daily cash exchange limit: Up to 2,000,000 KRW equivalent
• Weekly cash exchange limit: Up to 10,000,000 KRW equivalent
• Mobile app recharge: 200,000 KRW per transaction (max 1,000,000 KRW monthly)

WOWPASS vs. T-money: Which is Better for Adventurous Travelers?

As your local Seoul friend and guide, I’ve seen tourists struggle with both options. Here’s my honest comparison based on the latest 2025 travel guides:

Feature	WOWPASS	Regular T-money
Initial Cost	₩5,000	₩3,000-₩4,000
Transit Function	Full coverage of all subways, buses, taxis	Full coverage of all subways, buses, taxis
Payment Function	Works EVERYWHERE Visa is accepted	Limited to convenience stores & some attractions
Currency Loading	16+ foreign currencies accepted	Korean Won only
App Management	Full English app with spending tracking	No app for foreigners
Balance Refund	Full balance refundable at kiosks	Up to ₩20,000 with ₩500 fee
Lost Card Protection	Freeze card & transfer balance via app	No protection – money lost
Recharge Options	Foreign cash, credit cards, app	Korean Won cash only
Rewards/Cashback	Small cashback & partner discounts	None
Availability	140+ kiosks at major tourist areas	Everywhere (convenience stores)

Verdict: While T-money works perfectly fine for basics, WOWPASS is absolutely worth the tiny extra cost for the massive convenience upgrade, especially if you want to explore beyond typical tourist routes. It’s basically a local payment card + T-money + currency exchange all rolled into one!

Pro Tips from a Seoul Local Guide

1. Manage your dual balances: When you first load your WOWPASS, allocate a portion (like ₩10,000) to the T-money balance for transit and keep the rest for shopping and dining.
2. Download the app before arriving: The WOWPASS app helps you locate kiosks, check balances, and get special offers. Available in English, Chinese, and Japanese!
3. Keep some cash handy: Despite Korea being card-friendly, you’ll still find amazing street food stalls that only accept cash.
4. Register your card instantly: This activates lost card protection and rewards features – do it as soon as you get your card.
5. Getting a refund: If you have leftover balance, withdraw it as KRW cash at any WOWPASS machine before leaving Korea (1,000 KRW fee applies).
6. Validity period: Your card and balance are valid for 6 years, so keep it for your next Korea trip!

WOWPASS Troubleshooting: Common Issues Solved

These are the real problems travelers faced in 2024-2025, and how to fix them fast!

“My card isn’t working for payment”

Double-check which balance you’re using and how you’re paying:

• Regular store purchases: Insert or tap like a Visa card (uses main WOWPASS balance)
• Transit: Tap like a T-money card (uses T-money balance)
• If you have enough balance but still having issues, the card might be faulty and need reissuing

“I need to reissue my card”

Lost your card or it stopped working? No problem!

• WOWPASS main balance transfers automatically to your new card (if registered in app)
• T-money balance does NOT transfer (you’ll need to recharge your new card)
• Use the “Freeze Card” function in the app immediately if lost to protect your funds

“I can’t register my card in the app”

• The card might already be linked to another account
• Contact WOWPASS customer service with your card number and passport details
• Make sure you’re using the official WOWPASS app (not T-money or other transit apps)

“I’m having trouble with the currency exchange”

• WOWPASS machines accept clean, newer bills (no tears or excessive wear)
• Some machines might temporarily be out of KRW to dispense
• If the machine doesn’t accept your currency, use the app to top up with a credit card instead

Ready to Explore Seoul Like a Local?

With your WOWPASS in hand, you’re all set to experience Seoul beyond the standard tourist spots. No more payment worries, confusing currency exchanges, or transportation headaches—just pure adventure!

According to the latest 2025 travel guides, WOWPASS has quickly become “one of the most talked-about options” for navigating Korea, making travel “more convenient than ever.” It’s the perfect companion for adventurous travelers who want flexibility and security while exploring Seoul’s hidden side.

Want to discover Seoul’s most exciting hidden gems with a local friend? Check out my Seoul adventure tours designed for travelers who want to skip the basic walk-by and unlock the real Seoul! ✨

FAQ About WOWPASS (Updated for 2025)

Can Koreans or Korean nationals use WOWPASS?

No, currently customers with Korean nationality cannot use the WOWPASS service. It’s designed exclusively for international visitors.

Can I use WOWPASS for online purchases?

Not yet. WOWPASS is currently for offline payments only. This means food delivery apps and online shopping sites won’t work with WOWPASS.

Can I send money to friends with WOWPASS?

Yes! You can transfer your balance to another WOWPASS user or even to a Korean bank account through the app.

How do I recharge the T-money transportation balance?

Either transfer from your WOWPASS balance via the iOS app or recharge with KRW cash at subway ticket machines and convenience stores.

What happens if I lose my WOWPASS card?

Unlike a regular T-money card where your money would be lost, with WOWPASS you can immediately freeze your card through the app. Then you can get a new card and transfer the remaining balance (except T-money portion).

Are there any special discounts with WOWPASS?

Yes! By registering your card in the app, you can access partner discounts and small cashback rewards (around 0.5%) on certain transactions.

Is the WOWPASS card worth the extra 1,000-2,000 KRW compared to T-money?

Absolutely! The flexibility, security, currency exchange benefits, and wider acceptance make it significantly more valuable for international travelers, especially those who want to explore beyond tourist areas.

What’s the purchase process like at a WOWPASS kiosk?

You’ll scan your passport (it’s foreigner-exclusive), select your language, choose how much to load, insert your cash (in your own currency if preferred), and receive your card. The whole process takes just a couple of minutes.

Are you tired of fumbling with cash, struggling with payment apps, and getting confused by Korea’s transportation system? WOWPASS is the game-changing solution you need for your Seoul adventure! As a local Seoul guide who takes travelers beyond the typical tourist traps, I’m sharing the freshest insights about this must-have travel card based on 2025’s most comprehensive guides.

Traveling solo in Korea? It can be stressful trying to find a spot for your luggage for just a few hours. I’ve noticed many travelers, especially those staying at hotels, ask their hotel desk about short-term luggage storage before heading to Incheon Airport. If the hotel doesn’t offer the service, some end up lingering in cafes with their bags or head to the airport early. But there’s a more efficient way! Here’s how:

Seoul’s Unmanned Lockers:

Seoul boasts unmanned lockers across subway stations. If you wish to offload your luggage, these lockers are your answer. There’s a nifty app offering three key services: T-Locker, T-Luggage, and T-storage. As a traveler, you’ll primarily use T-Locker for short-term storage, T-Luggage for luggage, and T-storage for longer durations. The best part? All these services are bundled into a single app: T-locker, available for both Android and Apple devices. Here’s how it looks:

1 T-Locker

Operated by Seoul Metro, the T-Locker app provides access to over 5,500 unmanned lockers across 279 stations on Seoul Subway Lines 1 to 9. You can locate the nearest locker and check its availability, ensuring you never wander aimlessly searching for an open locker. While you can use these lockers without the app using a credit card, the app offers added convenience.

T-Locker: https://smrte.co.kr/support/happybox

FYI: ‘T-locker’ is a short form of ‘Ttotta locker’. Don’t be confused.

I was confused about the T-locker reservation feature. However, after asking them a question, I received a clear answer.

2 T-Luggage

Your second-best bet is T-Luggage, manned storage facilities situated at subway stations. Beyond just storage, they also offer a delivery service, allowing you to send your luggage straight to Incheon International Airport. However, do note that certain items are restricted, such as valuables, food, animals, plants, firearms, and drugs. Currently, high-traffic stations like Seoul Station, Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Gimpo Airport Station offer these services.

❗ I’d advise against using the delivery service due to its complexity; you could end up wasting more time than anticipated.

T-Luggage: https://www.tluggage.co.kr/eng

3 T-storage

For those planning a longer stay in Korea, T-storage offers extended storage options. You can access this through the T-locker app.

4 LugStay

An alternative storage service, LugStay, lets travelers deposit their luggage at partnered shops en route. LugStay has collaborated with various Seoul businesses, from cafes to hanbok rental shops. To use their service, simply install their app, locate a partner store, and schedule your drop-off and pick-up times. Just ensure you retrieve your items before the store closes.

LugStay: https://www.lugstay.com/

5 Bounce

Another noteworthy mention is Bounce. With a global presence, Bounce ties up with local businesses to offer secure storage options for travelers. It’s as straightforward as locating a nearby partner through their app, dropping off your luggage, and picking it up when you’re done. Unlike LugStay, which is a Korean development, Bounce originated from the USA.

https://usebounce.com/city/seoul/incheon-airport

Gone are the days of lugging around your bags in Seoul. While leaving your luggage at your accommodation remains an option, for those times before check-in or after check-out, these services are highly recommended.

Now you don’t have to struggle to carry your luggage everywhere you go in Seoul. Of course, you can leave your luggage at your hostel. But if you need to get around the city before you check in or after you check out, I recommend using these three amenities.

Luggage Storage Services at Incheon Airport

Terminal 1:

HANJIN EXPRESS

Operating hours: 07:00 – 22:00

Contact:  +82-32-743-5800

Location: Near Check-In Counter N on 3F, Terminal 1

Major tasks: Domestic Parcel Delivery, Luggage Storage & Packaging

HANJIN EXPRESS

Operating hours: 07:00 – 22:00

Contact:  +82-32-743-5841

Location: Near Check-In Counter B on 3F, Terminal 1

Major tasks: Domestic Parcel Delivery, Luggage Storage & Packaging

Terminal 2:

HANJIN EXPRESS

Operating hours: 07:00 – 21:30

Contact: +82-32-743-5835

Location: Near Check-In Counter H on 3F, Terminal 2

Major tasks: Door-to-door services, Keeping, Packing

HANJIN EXPRESS
Operating hours: 06:30 – 22:30

Contact: 032-743-5834

Location: Center of Public Area 1F, Terminal 2

Major tasks: Door to door services, Keeping, Packing

*For more information, visit https://www.airport.kr/ap/en/index.do

Duty-Free Area Storage at Incheon Airport 

Within the duty-free zones of Incheon Airport, lockers are available for hand luggage storage. While you can inquire about their exact location at the information desk, from my experience, they seem to cater primarily to transit passengers. However, if you are transiting through Incheon, this could be a convenient option. The best part? They are free of charge and are typically situated close to the information desks.

Unburden with Kimchiman: Seoul’s Smartest Luggage Solutions Unveiled

Navigating a bustling city like Seoul can be a breeze when you’re armed with the right tools and knowledge. With these handy luggage storage solutions, not only will you lighten your load, but you’ll also make the most of every moment in the city. Remember, travel is about enjoying the journey, and these services ensure that your experience is seamless from start to finish. So next time you find yourself in Seoul, let go of your luggage worries and dive deep into the city’s charm and vibrancy. Safe travels, and may your adventures in Korea be ever memorable! 🌏✈️🎒🇰🇷

More Questions?

Your questions are welcome email. 

• Mail

Interested in Real Seoul?

[setmore]

Getting to your accommodation can be the most daunting task when you arrive in Korea. Here, I have some great tips to help you reach your hotel or Airbnb from Incheon Airport quickly and easily.

Remember that there are two terminals at Incheon Airport: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. It takes 6 minutes to travel between the two terminals by the Incheon Airport line railway train.

There are 3 ways to get to downtown Seoul:

1. Train: Express or All-Stop
2. Limousine Bus
3. Taxi

Terminal 2

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https://kor.wifidosirak.com/gogetkorea

1. 🚅Train

Choose between Express and All-Stop trains.

Express:

The Express train initiates its journey from Incheon International Airport Terminal 2, makes a stop at Terminal 1 to pick up passengers, and then proceeds directly to Seoul Station without any additional stops. While Seoul Station is the last stop, passengers can continue their journey using the subway, provided they have a T-money card.

Reasons to take the Express train:

• It is the fastest way to reach Seoul Station, which is the center of Seoul. The travel time is 43 minutes from Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 and 51 minutes from Terminal 2.
• You can reserve and secure a seat without any worries.
• The seats are very comfortable and provide extra space for your luggage.
• Additional benefits include cabin crew service, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary bottled water (upon request).

Reasons not to take the Express train:

• There are only one or two runs per hour.
• The first All-Stop train departs at 5:15 am, and the last train departs at 10:40 pm from Incheon International Airport Terminal 2.
• If you arrive at the airport after 10:40 pm, you will need to consider other means of public transportation such as the All-Stop train or a taxi. The last airport limousine bus also stops running around 10:30 pm.
• Refer to the following table for more details.

Ticket Fare

• Adult: KRW 9,500 (Booking online gives you a KRW 500 discount)
• Child: KRW 7,500 (Ages 6-12)

Click the following link to purchase or reserve your ticket online: https://bit.ly/3WM6F2K 

How to get the ticket for the Express train:

• You can easily obtain the ticket at the transportation center, which is connected to the airport, whether you are at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.
• There is a kiosk where you can purchase the ticket, or you can buy it from the staff. Alternatively, you can make a reservation online by the provided link above. 

Ticketing and Boarding Location:

Whether you are at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, go to the Express Train Information Center on the 1BF of the Incheon Int’l Transportation Center.

All-Stop Train:

The All-Stop train runs along the airport line and is connected to the Seoul Metro lines, providing transportation between Incheon International Airport, Seoul, and other surrounding areas. It stops at each station along the way until it reaches Seoul Station. The travel time from Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 to Seoul Station is 59 minutes, while it takes additional 6 minutes from Incheon International Airport Terminal 2.

Ticket Fare

Compared to other trains, the All-Stop train has slightly higher fares: 4,750 KRW from Terminal 2 and 4,150 KRW from Terminal 1.

*How the Korean subway works: The basic fare is 1,400 won, or 1,500 won if you pay with cash. If you use a single journey ticket, you need to pay a 500 won deposit. After your trip, you can get this 500 won back by putting the ticket into a refund machine. If you travel more than 10 kilometers, you will have to pay 100 won extra for every 5 kilometers. To figure out the total cost, you pay the basic fare when you get on and any extra fare based on the distance when you get off.

How to Purchase a T-money Card or Single Journey Ticket for the All-Stop Train

In order to use public transportation in Korea, you will need either a T-money card (Cash bee card is the same thing) or a single journey ticket, unless you want to get arrested. :/

• Once you go through customs and exit the door, you will find yourself on the 1st floor. On the same floor, there are several convenient stores like CU where you can purchase a T-money card and top it up. When buying the card, you can ask the clerk to top up the card with any desired amount. I recommend loading at least 10,000 won, which is equivalent to €7.
• If you go to the transit center, buying a T-money card and topping it up is convenient as the two locations are next to each other. The standard T-money card usually costs 4,000 won, while a specially designed card with character prints may cost 5,000 won.
• Alternatively, you can obtain a single journey ticket from the ticket device at the transit center connected to Terminal 1 or 2. However, I don’t recommend this option as it can be inconvenient. Every time you ride the subway, you will need to purchase a new ticket along with a 500 won deposit, which can be refunded at the kiosk in the subway station.

Boarding Location

Whether you are at Terminal 1 or 2, proceed to the Express Train Information Center on the 1BF of Incheon Int’l Transportation Center (same as the location for the non-stop train).

What should you do if you lose your belongings on the Incheon Airport line?

Contact the Airport Railroad at 1599-7788.

2. 🚌Limousine Bus

• You can reach Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, or Incheon directly without transferring from the airport line, allowing you to enjoy the journey and the view outside.
• This can be the most convenient option for you as you won’t have to carry your heavy bags like you would when using the train. The bus driver and staff will assist you in loading your luggage onto the bus. Once you disembark, you can easily walk to your accommodation if it’s within walking distance or take a taxi. This combination will make your journey much more convenient.

Kimchiman’s Insider Tip:

1. Enter your address on Kakao Map.

2. Plan your route to your accommodation and consider different transportation combinations, such as bus + walking or bus + taxi.

3. Visit the website https://bit.ly/43GvLT3, enter your bus number, and check the schedule, route information, as well as the exact time of departure, boarding location, and destination.

4. Go to an electronic kiosk or a regular ticket office to purchase your ticket.

5. Board the bus, use Wi-Fi or mobile data to track your route on Kakao Map, and determine when to get off.

⛔️Don’t suffer. Avoid booking airport limousine bus tickets through the website or the “t-money go” app from the same company, as they are unreliable and problematic.

Price

17,000 – 18,000 KRW depending on the destination or bus number. 

Bus Ticket Office Locations:

Terminal 1:

• There are two indoor ticket offices in the Arrival Hall on Floor 1. One, ideally situated for Seoul-bound buses, is located between exits 8 and 9. The other office can be found between exits 10 and 11. 
• Outdoor ticket offices can be found next to exits 4, 6, and 7.
• Electronic kiosks are conveniently situated at multiple indoor locations, as well as near the aforementioned exits both inside and outside.

Terminal 2:

• Upon landing, proceed from Floor 1 to Basement Level 1 (B1).
• Electronic kiosks are positioned next to escalators.
• Tickets can be purchased from staff at the ticket offices located where you board the bus for Gyeonggi-do or other regions. (Please refer to the map below for clarity.)

What should you do if you lose your belongings on the Airport Limousine bus?

• For Seoul-bound buses: Contact the Dsasan Call Center at 02-120.
• For Gyeonggi-bound buses: Reach out to the Gyeonggi Call Center at 031-120.
• For buses heading to other cities: Get in touch with the local public transportation department or the bus companies in each respective city.

3. 🚕Taxis

Two types of taxis are available: sedans and call vans, each with a different price range. Depending on the size of your luggage, a sedan can accommodate up to three passengers, whereas a call van can hold up to five. On average, a trip to Seoul Station costs 55,000 KRW for a sedan and 80,000 KRW for a call van. To avoid fraudulent practices from unauthorized companies posing as taxis and charging unfair rates, please proceed to the designated taxi stops.

Type	Description	Tel. Number	Website
Foreigner exclusive(Incheon Airport – Seoul distance fare applies)	International Taxi	1644-2255	Go
	SEOUL SMART	032-743-2357	Go

Fare and Stop

For more information, visit 

Interested in Phone-Free Seoul Micro-Tours?

https://gogetkorea.com/all-tours/

1. Data & Connectivity 📶

Why Opt for an eSIM Card or Pocket WiFi?

1. Stay connected with your loved ones back home easily. 
2. Always have data for essential navigation apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMaps. 
3. Share your vibrant travel experiences on social media without a hitch. 

SIM Card vs Pocket WiFi:

Choosing between an eSIM card and WiFi egg boils down to your specific travel needs.

eSIM Cards

Pros 

1. No extra device to carry around, unlike a Pocket WiFi Router.
2. Facilitates MMS/SMS/Calls.
3. You get a local Korean phone number which can be necessary for reservations at various places.

Cons 

1. Requires an unlocked phone.

Pocket WiFi

Pros 

1. No need to replace your original SIM card or eSIM service.
2. Shareable amongst up to 5 devices, perfect for group travel. (3 people recommended) 
3. Multiple device connectivity, making it a cost-effective choice for groups.

Cons 

1. Need to charge the device.

⚠️ Note: Verification via a credit card under your legal name is essential when either renting a pocket WiFi or buying a SIM card.

Before You Grab an eSIM Card 🚨

1. 1. Ensure your phone is unlocked; contact your carrier for assistance. Pay special attention if you’re coming from Japan, Canada, or the US.
   2. Check device compatibility with Korean network frequencies using the link below. Ensure it supports one of these GSM network bands:
      • 3G: HSDPA 2100MHz/HSDPA+
      • 4G LTE: Band 1 (2100MHz), Band 3 (1800MHz), Band 8 (900MHz)

Where to Purchase an eSIM Card or Pocket WiFi? 💸

Online pre-purchase is the most convenient method, but in-person purchases can be made at Incheon Airport or outlets such as WIFI Dosirak. You can rent a Pocket WiFi device or buy an eSIM service at the WIFI Dosirak desk. Say “I want to buy this through GoGetKorea” (고겟코리아).

• in front of Exit 12 on the 1st floor of Incheon Airport Terminal 1
• In front of Exit 3 on the 1st floor of Incheon Airport Terminal 1
• Incheon Airport Terminal 2 Exit No. 3, 1st floor
• Daegu Airport First floor Exit 1
• Next to Gate 2 on the 1st floor of Gimpo Airport International Terminal
• Gimhae Airport First floor Exit 3
• Cheongju Airport, 1st floor, next to Gate 3
• 6F, Chung-Jeong Building, 135, Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Korea

‼️ Attention! You can use this link to purchase either Pocket WiFi or an eSIM.
https://kor.wifidosirak.com/gogetkorea

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2. Budgeting Your Trip 💰

I’d recommend bringing around 200,000 won as a safety net. This amount should last a few days, saving you from urgent bank visits or currency exchanges. Be wary of potential card issues, as observed with friends from Belgium and Germany, probably due to varying bank systems and standards.

Currency Exchange Tips:

• Banks are operational from 9 AM to 4 PM (Monday-Friday). Try visiting early to avoid long queues. 
• I suggest you visit the bank before 3 PM in case there are lots of customers. Early morning is the best time. 
• Avoid standalone ATMs; they tend to charge higher commissions and may not be entirely secure. Utilize ATMs from reliable banks, ranked from best to decent:
  1. Woori Bank
  2. KEB Hana Bank
  3. IBK Bank
  4. Kookmin Bank
  5. Shinhan Bank

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3. Essential Apps & Maps 📱

Maps

Kakao Map: Your go-to for navigating Korea.  Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link
Naver Map: An excellent alternative for navigating Korea. Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link

Subway maps

• Kakao Metro: The perfect companion for subway explorations. Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link
• Subway: Exclusive to Apple users. Appstore Link (Refer to the detailed screenshot for routes) 
• Subway Korea: Exclusive to Google Play store users. Goolge Play Store
• Seoul Metro Subway Map  Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link

Bus apps

• Kakao Bus: Check each bus number’s timetable and route. Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link (Only available in Korean.)
• Korail App: Your best friend for train journeys. Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link

Taxi apps

• Kakao Taxi & Uber: Trustworthy taxi options in Korea. Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link
• Uber Taxi(UT): Google Play Store Link | Appstore Link (Note: In Korea, Uber operates as Uber Taxi and is slightly cheaper than Kakao Taxi.)

Kimchiman’s Insider tips: 

In Seoul and South Korea, you need Naver or Kakao Map. Google map still works for public transport, but not for directions for walking or GPS when driving. You also need Uber app or Kakao Taxi. Uber in Korea is Uber Taxi because of taxi union’s opposition and that is their compromise. Uber Taxi tends to be cheaper. For Koreans like me, I can use Tmoney Go app, which includes Onda Taxi app with inside, but not available for foreigners. Don’t worry, though. Most taxi drivers have these three systems in their taxi so whatever app you use, there is no big difference.

Kakao Map reigns superior to Naver if you can read Korean and recognize landmark names. While Naver is more English-friendly, its design might feel less intuitive. However, it does offer more information about restaurants and cafés. For subway directions, the “Subway” app is unmatched. Look at my screenshots.

The 2nd most important app after Naver or Kakao Map is Smarter Subway map (지하철 종결자 in Korean). It is the most intuitive, up-to-date and easy-to-use app. It is simply by far the best subway app in all cities in South Korea. It not only informs of you the fastest route, but also, the estimation of travel time, cost, the previous or the next train, and the route map.

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4. Should You Get a Special Pass? 🎟️

Seoul Discover Pass:

The pass is worth having if you use it the right way. What’s the right way? There are many things you can do with the pass: history, museums, entertainment, transportation, travel, experiences, performances, etc. Among them, entertainment activities tend to be the most expensive. This suggests that you should target attractions with higher admission fees.

In summary, if you’re keen on thoroughly exploring entertainment attractions within the time frame after purchasing the pass, it offers great value. Before buying, it’s essential to pre-plan your itinerary and research the operating hours of the attractions. If you only plan to visit places with fees of 3000 KRW or below, this pass might not be necessary.

Busan Discover Pass:

Adheres to the same principle as the Seoul pass.

Korail Pass:

This pass is especially valuable if you’re venturing to Busan and neighboring towns accessible via Korail. Note that detours through Seoul are necessary due to the lack of direct routes to other towns. Please consult the map above for specifics. While the pass suits a brief one-night stay in Busan, choosing the 4-day option will double the price.

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Questions & Answers

How much money should I take to Korea for 2 weeks?

I’d recommend bringing around 400,000 won as a safety net. This amount should last a few days, saving you from urgent bank visits or currency exchanges. But it really comes down to how you manage your budget.

 

More Questions?

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