Thinking of using an eSIM for your Korea trip? You’re making a smart move.
YESIM is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to stay connected during your travels—without needing a physical SIM card.
Whether you’re new to eSIMs or just want to make sure everything goes smoothly, this guide will walk you through the full process: from checking if your phone supports eSIM to installing and activating your YESIM for Korea.
Step 1: Check If Your Phone Is eSIM-Compatible
Before purchasing an eSIM plan, make sure your device supports eSIM technology.
Here’s a quick list of compatible phones:
- Apple iPhone: iPhone XR, XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 (all models that are unlocked)
- Samsung Galaxy: S20, S21, S22, S23, Fold, Z Flip, Note 20, and newer
- Google Pixel: Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and newer
- Others: Some Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi models (check with your manufacturer)
To check manually: Go to your phone’s Settings > Mobile Network > Add eSIM
If you see the option to “Add eSIM” or “Add Mobile Plan,” then your phone is compatible.
Make sure your phone is unlocked, or else the eSIM won’t work with international carriers like YESIM.
Step 2: Download the YESIM App
Next, head over to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android) and search for “YESIM.”
Download and install the app. It’s free and lightweight.
Once installed, sign up using your email or Apple/Google account. This will create your YESIM profile and allow you to manage plans, top-ups, and activation all in one place.
Step 3: Choose Your Korea Plan
Inside the YESIM app:
- Tap on “Find Plan”
- Select your destination as “South Korea”
- You’ll see a list of available plans (e.g. 3GB for 7 days, 5GB for 15 days, unlimited for 30 days)
Compare the options based on:
- How long you’re staying
- How much data you typically use
- Whether you need unlimited or light use (maps, messaging)
YESIM is prepaid and contract-free, so you don’t need to worry about hidden charges.
Step 4: Purchase the Plan
After selecting your desired plan, proceed to checkout.
YESIM accepts the following payment methods:
- Credit/Debit Card
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- PayPal
Once payment is successful, your eSIM profile will be generated immediately. You’re now ready to install.
Step 5: Install the eSIM on Your Phone
You can install your eSIM in two ways, depending on your phone:
Option A: Auto Installation (Recommended)
Most iPhones and newer Androids allow YESIM to install the eSIM automatically through the app.
Steps:
- In the app, tap “Install eSIM”
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- You’ll see the eSIM profile added in your Settings
Option B: Manual Installation via QR Code
If automatic installation doesn’t work:
- Tap “Manual Install” in the YESIM app
- You’ll be shown a QR code
- On your phone, go to:
Settings > Mobile Network > Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan) - Select Scan QR Code
- Scan the YESIM QR and follow the prompts
You can name the eSIM line (e.g. “Korea Travel”) to keep things organized.
Step 6: Activate the eSIM When You Arrive in Korea
This is the easy part.
As soon as you land in Korea:
- Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data
- Turn ON the YESIM eSIM line
- Toggle ON data roaming
- Make sure your main SIM is off (if you’re not using dual data)
That’s it! You’re now connected to a local Korean network, usually via KT, LG U+ or SK Telecom depending on your YESIM plan.
Bonus: Managing Your Plan
YESIM makes it easy to manage your plan through the app:
- Check your remaining data
- Extend your plan if needed
- Purchase a new plan if you’re staying longer
- Top up anytime, anywhere
You can also chat with YESIM support directly from the app if you have any issues.
FAQ
Q: Can I activate YESIM before I arrive in Korea?
Yes, but it’s best to wait until you land to turn it on. Install the eSIM in advance, but activate it later.
Q: Does YESIM give me a Korean phone number?
No, it’s for data only. You can still use messaging apps like KakaoTalk, WhatsApp, or Messenger without problems.
Q: Can I keep my home SIM active at the same time?
Yes! If your phone supports dual SIM, you can use YESIM for data and keep your regular SIM for texts or calls.
Final Thoughts
I’ve used YESIM multiple times while traveling, and honestly, it makes everything so much smoother.
No more scrambling at the airport, no lost SIM tools, and no awkward store conversations in broken Korean.
If you’re someone who likes to arrive ready, not flustered—YESIM is the way to go.
You’ll thank yourself when you open Naver Map five minutes after landing and it just… works.
So if you’re heading to Korea soon, here’s your link: