Pocket Wifi: South Korea
To travel to South Korea is to plunge into the heart of a rich and vibrant culture, while navigating one of the world's most connected countries. Whether you're in the bustling streets of Seoul, on the tranquil beaches of Jeju, or high in the mountains of Seoraksan, staying connected is crucial. This is where the Pocket Wifi South KoreaThe new "Smartphone" is your passport to seamless connectivity. In this guide, we'll detail what it is, how to choose the right device, where to buy it, how much it costs, how to install and activate it, and the alternatives available.
What is a pocket wifi?
Explanation and benefits
A pocket wifi, also known as portable wifi, is a small device that lets you connect to the Internet anytime, anywhere, without the need for a cellular connection. The device fits in your pocket and can connect several devices simultaneously - smartphones, tablets, laptops - to a private wifi network.
The advantages are numerous:
- Constant connectivity 24/7 Internet access, ideal for navigation, maps, social networking and much more.
- Shareable multiple devices can be connected at the same time, making it perfect for groups or families.
- Economical The cost of a SIM card: often cheaper than roaming charges or the purchase of several local SIM cards.
- Easy to use No complicated configuration required, just switch on and connect.
Disadvantages and difference from SIM card
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
- Limited battery life : need for regular recharging.
- Dependency If you forget your pocket wifi somewhere, you lose your Internet access.
- Coverage South Korea: although South Korea has excellent wifi coverage, there may be areas that are less well served.
Unlike a SIM card, which can only be used for a single device and requires specific configuration (phone unlocking, network compatibility), pocket wifi is immediately operational for several devices, which comes in handy when you're travelling with several people.
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How to choose the right pocket wifi?
Choosing the right wifi pocket in South Korea depends on several key criteria:
- Battery life To avoid frequent recharging, opt for a device with long autonomy.
- Number of simultaneous connections Make sure it can support all your devices.
- Data limit and speed : look for offers with unlimited data or a large amount of data at high speed to avoid slowdowns.
- Coverage Check that the provider offers good coverage in the areas you plan to visit.
- Price Compare daily rental costs and any additional charges.
Comparison of Korean operators offering wifi pockets :
| Operator | Plan type | Data | Price (KRW) | Price (€) | Duration | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KT (Korea Telecom) | Daily Plan | Unlimited | 4,400 KRW/day | ~3.10 € | 1-10 days | Speed: 20 Mbps Full Coverage Multi-user |
| 8,800 KRW/day (at the airport) | ~6.20 € | 1-10 days | ||||
| 7,700 KRW/day (at airport) | ~5.40 € | 11-20 days | ||||
| 6,600 KRW/day (at the airport) | ~4.70 € | 21-29 days | ||||
| Monthly Plan | Unlimited | 55,000 KRW/month | ~38.60 € | 30 days | Additional fee: 3,300 KRW/day for over 30 days | |
| SK Telecom | Daily Plan | Unlimited | 3,300 KRW/day (online) | ~2.30 € | Speed: 20 Mbps Multi-user | |
| 4,400 KRW/day (Roaming center) | ~3.10 € | |||||
| LG U+ | Daily Plan | Unlimited | 8,800 KRW/day | ~6.20 € | Speed: LTE Multi-user | |
| 4,400 KRW/day (with reservation) | ~3.10 € |
Where to buy pocket wifi?
On line
Booking online before you arrive is the most convenient and often the cheapest way to get a pocket wifi. Many sites offer early booking with discounts. This also guarantees that the device will be available as soon as you arrive.
At the airport
Incheon, Gimpo and Gimhae airports have kiosks where you can rent a pocket wifi device on arrival. Although convenient, this option may be more expensive and subject to availability.
How much does it cost to rent a pocket wifi in South Korea?
Prices vary according to supplier, rental duration and current promotions. On average, expect to pay between 4,000 and 8,000 won per day for a rental. Online bookings often offer discounted rates, so look for the best deals before you leave.
Installing and activating Pocket Wifi
Once you've chosen and obtained your pocket wifi, the next step is to install and activate it, a generally quick and simple process. Here's how:
- Switch on the device Press the power button. Wait a few seconds for the device to start up.
- Connect your devices On your smartphone, tablet or laptop, activate wifi and search for the network name (SSID) displayed on your pocket wifi or on the documentation supplied.
- Enter password Enter the wifi password (also supplied with the device or in the documentation) to connect to the network.
- Check connection Once connected, open your browser and try to access a web page to confirm that the connection is active and working properly.
Practical tips:
- Keep the device charged Pocket wifi devices have limited autonomy. Remember to recharge it every evening, or take an external battery with you on long days of exploration.
- Optimize battery life When you don't need the Internet, switch off the device to save battery power.
- Security Although the network is password-protected, avoid sensitive transactions, such as banking, on a public or shared wifi network.
Alternative to Pocket Wifi: The Temporary SIM Card
While pocket wifi is a practical solution for staying connected in South Korea, a temporary SIM card is a great alternative, especially if you're traveling alone or need to make local calls. Here's an overview of this option:
Advantages :
- Simplicity Insert the SIM card into your phone and you're ready to go. No extra handsets to carry.
- Local number Useful for reservations or emergencies.
- No battery worries : Uses your phone's battery, so no need to recharge an additional device.
Disadvantages :
- Limited to one device Unlike pocket wifi, a SIM card can only be used on one device at a time.
- Compatibility Your phone must be unlocked and compatible with Korean networks to use a local SIM card.
Where can I get a temporary SIM card?
Temporary SIM cards can be purchased online, at the airport, or in various stores and kiosks across the country. As with pocket wifi, check online options for better deals and the possibility of pre-booking.
Whether you opt for pocket wifi or a temporary SIM card, the important thing is to choose the option that best suits your South Korean travel needs. Each solution has its pros and cons, but both guarantee that you'll stay connected and able to browse, share and explore with ease.
Speeds may vary, but as South Korea is known for its fast connections, expect high speeds, ideal for streaming, downloading and browsing.
Advance bookings are recommended to guarantee availability and benefit from reduced rates.
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