With automatic SIM Roaming, you can use your own mobile number whilst in Korea. Make sure the mobile phone you buy or rent is SIM compatible.
GSM standard phones wont work in Korea. Only CDMA standard can be used.
Korea is one of the most internet savvy users in the world. The demand for high-speed internet access is really strong. The vast majority of mobile phone users now use third-generation handsets. (about 10x faster than Australian mobile phones).
CDMA is the communication standard in South Korea, and only 3 service providers:
- SK Telecom
- KTF
- LG Tececom
Like in Australian, you can now retain your current mobile phone number in Korea and switch providers. This came about in 2004.
Like most countries, the cost of a phone call will vary with the plan you sign-up for. Koreans typically pay by installments, yet foreigners usually buy the phone outright.
If you will only be in South Korea for a short-time, then go with a rental or global roaming.
My suggestion is to go for pre-paid though. As long as you don't make many calls that is.
A pre-paid is offered by all the above carriers. Prices range from around 60 won per 10 seconds. So for 10,000 won, you can have just under 30 minutes of talk time. Pre-paids must be used within 30 days of activation. Futhermore, you can continue to receive calls for another 15 days after your pre-paid has expired. After that, if you don't recharge, your phone can no longer accept incoming calls. You will need ID / Foreigner registration card when applying.