Seoul Tech 101: Data, Budgeting and Essential apps

1. Data & Connectivity

Why Opt for an eSIM Card or Pocket WiFi?

Stay connected with your loved ones back home easily.
Always have data for essential navigation apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMaps.
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

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

Cons

Requires an unlocked phone.

Pocket WiFi

Pros

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

Cons

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. 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

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

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.

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.

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.

Interested in Real Seoul?

Seoul Prep Kit