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When should I install my eSIM, how do I turn it on in Korea, and what if it doesn't work?

Short answer

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Install it with the QR code, then switch your data to that line when you arrive in Korea. When the days start counting depends on the seller, so read the terms first. Don't delete an installed eSIM โ€” you may not be able to get it again.

What to do
  1. Check your phone supports eSIM and is not carrier-locked.
  2. Read the seller's terms: does the plan start when you install it or when you first connect in Korea?
  3. Install it over Wi-Fi by scanning the QR code (or entering the details manually).
  4. In Korea, turn on the travel eSIM line, set mobile data to it, and turn off data roaming on your home line.

If that doesn't work

  • Still can't connect? Contact the seller or carrier that sold the eSIM before deleting anything.
  • No data at all on arrival? Use free airport Wi-Fi to reach the seller's support.
Check before relying on this
  • Don't delete the eSIM to troubleshoot: some carriers won't issue a new QR code.
  • If your home line stays on with data roaming, you may be charged roaming fees.
  • 'Unlimited' plans can slow down after a daily amount; check the terms.
More details and examples Expand

At a glance

๐Ÿ“ฑ Check your phone first โ†’ Not locked to a carrier โ†’ iPhone XS / XR or later โ†’ Dial *#06# โ€” if an EID (starting 89) appears, the phone supports eSIM ๐Ÿ“ฅ Install (Wi-Fi needed) โ†’ iPhone: scan the QR code with the Camera, or Settings โ†’ Cellular โ†’ Add eSIM โ†’ Galaxy: Settings โ†’ Connections โ†’ SIM manager โ†’ Add eSIM โ†’ scan QR code โ†’ restart โ†’ Pixel: Settings โ†’ Network & internet โ†’ SIMs โ†’ Add SIM โฐ When to install โ†’ Check the seller's terms first โ†’ e.g. KT: "activated from the moment of eSIM installation in 24-hour increments" โ†’ e.g. Google: "activate it when you arrive" โœˆ๏ธ When you arrive in Korea โ†’ Turn on the travel eSIM line โ†’ Set cellular (mobile) data to the travel line โ†’ Turn off data roaming on your home line (otherwise roaming fees may apply) ๐Ÿ  When you get home โ†’ Turn your home line back on โ†’ turn the travel line off โš ๏ธ If it won't install or connect โ†’ Airplane mode on and off โ†’ line off and on โ†’ restart the phone โ†’ Still not working: contact the seller or carrier โ†’ Don't delete the eSIM (KT: no new QR code / SK Telecom: you must buy a new one) ๐Ÿ“ถ "Unlimited" can still be slowed โ†’ Check the terms (e.g. KT: after 11 GB in a day, data continues at 5 Mbps) ๐Ÿข Buying at the airport โ†’ Incheon Airport Terminal 1 arrivals floor: KT, SK Telecom and LG U+ roaming centers

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