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Learn Korean TV

Internet & TV Setup Guide

- Internet is essential and widely available in Korea with fast speeds - Major providers: KT, SK Broadband, LG U+ - Installation takes 3-7 days after application - Monthly cost: ₩30,000-₩50,000 for internet + TV bundles - Most apartments have pre-installed infrastructure - English customer service available at major providers

Korea has three major telecommunications companies offering internet and TV services:

- Largest provider with widest coverage - English hotline: 1588-0010 - Website: www.kt.com - Known for: Reliable service, good customer support - Fast speeds and competitive pricing - English support: Available at service centers - Website: www.skbroadband.com - Known for: Gaming-optimized plans, bundled mobile deals - Good value for money - English support: 101 press 9 for English - Website: www.lguplus.com - Known for: IPTV quality, family plans

Korean internet is among the fastest in the world. Common plans include:

  • 100 Mbps: Basic browsing, streaming - ₩20,000-₩25,000/month
  • 500 Mbps: Multiple devices, HD streaming - ₩30,000-₩35,000/month
  • 1 Gbps: Gaming, 4K streaming, work from home - ₩35,000-₩45,000/month
  • 2.5-10 Gbps: Heavy users, content creators - ₩45,000-₩60,000/month
Most households find 500 Mbps or 1 Gbps plans sufficient for all needs.

Method 1: Online Application

  1. Visit provider website - English available on most
  2. Check service availability by entering your address
  3. Select internet speed + TV package
  4. Choose installation date
  5. Submit application with ARC number

Method 2: Visit Service Center

  1. Find nearest service center on provider website
  2. Bring: ARC, passport, rental contract
  3. Staff will help you choose the right plan
  4. Schedule installation appointment

Method 3: Real Estate Agent

Many landlords have partnerships with providers. Ask your real estate agent - they can often get promotional discounts and faster installation.

Always bring your Alien Registration Card ARC - it is required for any contract. Tourist visas cannot sign internet contracts.

Timeline:

  • Application to Installation: 3-7 days
  • Installation duration: 1-2 hours
  • Technician will call 1 day before

What to Prepare:

  • Be home during scheduled time
  • Clear space near entry point for router
  • Have ARC ready for verification

Installation Includes:

  • Router setup and configuration
  • WiFi network setup
  • TV set-top box installation if ordered
  • Speed test and quality check
  • Brief tutorial on equipment
The technician will configure everything for you - no technical knowledge needed!

All major providers offer IPTV with hundreds of channels:

What is Included:

  • 150-300+ TV channels
  • On-demand movies and shows
  • Time-shift TV watch from beginning
  • Multi-screen support
  • Mobile app access

Popular IPTV Services:

  • Olleh TV from KT: Best for Korean dramas and sports
  • B TV from SK Broadband: Good international channels
  • U+ TV from LG U+: Strong content library

English Content:

  • Most packages include: CNN, BBC, National Geographic
  • Netflix and YouTube apps built-in
  • Some providers offer premium international channel packs
Many foreigners skip IPTV and just use Netflix or YouTube through the internet connection to save money.

Internet Only:

  • 500 Mbps: ₩30,000-₩35,000
  • 1 Gbps: ₩35,000-₩40,000

Internet + IPTV Bundle:

  • Basic package: ₩45,000-₩50,000
  • Premium package: ₩55,000-₩65,000

Additional Costs:

  • Installation fee: ₩0-₩30,000 often waived with promotions
  • Router rental: Usually included
  • Deposit: Not required with ARC

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Check for expat promotions
  • Bundle internet + mobile phone for discounts
  • 2-3 year contracts get 20-30% discount
  • Sign up during promotional periods March and September
Some apartments especially one-rooms include internet in the rent. Ask your landlord before applying separately. If shared internet is slow, you can get your own line installed. Yes! Korea has excellent public WiFi coverage. Register for KT WiFi, SK WiFi, or LG U+ WiFi zones using your account - available at cafes, subway stations, and public places. Call your provider 1-2 weeks before moving. They will transfer service to new address for ₩30,000 fee or allow you to cancel without penalty with proof of move. - KT: 1588-0010 English option available - SK Broadband: Visit service center English staff available - LG U+: 101 press 9 for English

Before Signing:

  • Confirm total monthly cost and ask about hidden fees
  • Check contract length: 1, 2, or 3 years
  • Ask about early termination fees
  • Get written confirmation of promotional pricing

After Installation:

  • Save technician number for issues
  • Test internet speed at speedtest.net
  • Download provider mobile app for account management
  • Set up automatic payment with bank auto-transfer

If You Have Problems:

  • Slow speed: Call customer service for technician visit usually free
  • Billing issues: Visit service center with ARC
  • Moving: Give 2 weeks notice to avoid charges
Internet contracts auto-renew. If you are leaving Korea, cancel at least 1 month before departure to avoid being charged for the next month.

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Views: 0 • Last updated: 11/11/2025