은행 계좌 개설 및 요금제 선택
A Korean bank account and local phone number are essential for daily life — from receiving salary and paying rent to verifying your identity on apps and websites.
Recommended Setup Order
- Immediately after arrival: get a prepaid SIM card (available at the airport with just your passport)
- After receiving your ARC: open a bank account
- After opening a bank account: switch to a postpaid phone plan under your name
This order matters because each step requires the previous one.
Opening a Bank Account
Required Documents
- Alien Registration Card (ARC) — original
- Passport — original
- Proof of residence (lease contract) — some banks require this
- Proof of purpose (enrollment or employment certificate) — some banks require this
Important Notes
- Your first account may be a restricted account (한도제한계좌) with daily transfer limits
- As of 2025, the Mobile ARC (모바일 외국인등록증) is accepted at select banks
- Call the branch before visiting to confirm their specific requirements
Banks with Foreign Resident Services
| Bank | Notes |
|---|---|
| KB Kookmin | Extensive network, English app |
| Shinhan | English app, mobile ARC support |
| Hana | International services, English support |
| Woori | Foreign resident services |
Getting a Mobile Phone Plan
Short-Term (Under 90 Days)
Purchase a prepaid SIM card at the airport or convenience stores. Only a passport is needed.
Long-Term (Over 90 Days)
After receiving your ARC, visit a carrier store to set up a postpaid plan under your name.
| Carrier | Notes |
|---|---|
| SKT | Largest network coverage |
| 케이티 | Strong urban coverage |
| LG유플러스 | Competitive pricing |
| MVNOs | Budget options on major networks |
최종 검토일: 2026년 7월 · 관련 기관에 문의하거나 전화하여 항상 현재 세부 정보를 확인하십시오. 1345.