🌐Internet & TV Setup Guide
인터넷 및 TV 설치 가이드
Quick Summary
- 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
🌐Major Internet Service Providers
Korea has three major telecommunications companies offering internet and TV services:
📞KT Korea Telecom
- Largest provider with widest coverage
- English hotline: 1588-0010
- Website: www.kt.com
- Known for: Reliable service, good customer support
📱SK Broadband
- Fast speeds and competitive pricing
- English support: Available at service centers
- Website: www.skbroadband.com
- Known for: Gaming-optimized plans, bundled mobile deals
➕LG U+
- Good value for money
- English support: 101 press 9 for English
- Website: www.lguplus.com
- Known for: IPTV quality, family plans
⚡Internet Speed Options
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.
📋How to Apply
Method 1: Online Application
- Visit provider website - English available on most
- Check service availability by entering your address
- Select internet speed + TV package
- Choose installation date
- Submit application with ARC number
Method 2: Visit Service Center
- Find nearest service center on provider website
- Bring: ARC, passport, rental contract
- Staff will help you choose the right plan
- 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.
Important Notice
Always bring your Alien Registration Card ARC - it is required for any contract. Tourist visas cannot sign internet contracts.
🔧Installation Process
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!
📺IPTV Internet TV Services
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.
💰Typical Costs Monthly
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
❓Common Questions
🏢Apartment Already Has Internet?
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.
📱Can I Use WiFi Everywhere?
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.
🔌What If I Move?
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.
🌍English Customer Service?
- KT: 1588-0010 English option available
- SK Broadband: Visit service center English staff available
- LG U+: 101 press 9 for English
⚠️Important Tips
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
Important Notice
Internet contracts auto-renew. If you are leaving Korea, cancel at least 1 month before departure to avoid being charged for the next month.