Cell Phones & Keeping in Touch

Most modern-day smartphones will work in Korea without any problems. Currently, Samsung, LG and Apple are the most popular among locals, with a continuously growing 5G network available. Most military members simply switch their SIM card and opt for a year-long local cell phone plan for their tour. The major Korean service providers are Korea Telecom (KT), SK Telecom, and LG U+.

• Unlock your phone prior to coming: Call your carrier to make sure your phone is “unlocked” before traveling overseas
• 2-Factor Authentication: Before traveling overseas, it’s recommended to update your accounts’ 2-Factor Authentications to email in case you switch SIM cards and cannot readily access your US number
• Avoid monthly plans as they do not have a military clause that allows you to cancel your contract for operational reasons
• Check before buying! Some newly purchased phones may not be able to be “unlocked” for several months after purchase in the States

• AAFES has options for cell phone and internet with bilingual Korean employees that can help you choose a service provider. You might find a wider range of options at local providers on the economy.

  To sign up for a plan, bring:

  • ID Card
  • Copy of PCS Orders
  • Payment
  • Current Phone

• iPhone iMessage/Facetime (Free texts & video calls)
• WhatsApp (Free texts, calls & very popular)
• Google Voice (Free, very popular, & gives U.S. number)
• Facebook Messenger (Free texts and calls)
• Skype (Free chats & video calls)
• Magic Jack App (Free/$ voice calls & U.S. number)
• Vonage (Costs $, U.S. number & voice calls)

Note: Some apps, like Google Voice, must be activated in the U.S. before you depart. It’s recommended to download all desired apps and check them for functionality prior to PCSing.

Note: For phone numbers to work in these apps, try adding “+” before the Country Code