Getting A cellphone in Korea.?

Question

I just moved to Korea and I am having problem after problem getting a phone.

1. Can an unlocked quadband cellphone from the US work in Korea. I have been told that Korea uses a different network (not GSM) and only Korean bought cellphones work here and they cannot be taken out of the country.

2. The least expensive phone I have found in a cellphone store is the equivalent of $400, with additional charges for using built in camera and sms, plus the equivalent of $50 a month for the plan. I can't believe that every korean is going around paying $400 plus $50 a month just for a cell phone.

3. I went to an electronic market and found that the cellphones are much cheaper there. I asked the man for 4 phones (for me and my family) and he tells me that it is the law in Korea that only one phone can be registered to a person. And because my kids are not over 20 and can't register the phones themselves, I have to go to Immigration Office and get a form that verifies everyone I am purchasing phones for is in my family.

Can someone tell me if there is an easier way to get cellphones in Korea. This has been a real pain in the butt, especially since my kids start school in a few days, and I would like them to have phones for when they are out with friends and what not.

Answer 1

i was in korea when i was in the army and i got a prepaid cellphone for 50 bucks, from another soldier but i never tried to get one on the outside of camp.

Answer 2

get one on sale. i got mine for the equivalent of about $30.

Answer 3

At number three the guy is probably lying , i live in korea and my cell phone. my brotrhers, and my moms is all registered to to my grandma.. Also be warned. In korea ppl are all about buisness, and in cell phone shops they most likely will try to rip you off. I know because I have a friend in Korea who owns a cell phone shop.

Also if you have any korean friends ask them. Don't only go to one shop. There are tons. Prices vary from places to places. And if you want ask them or a free phone. (꽁자폰) You only pay for the registarion fee and not for the acutual device. Like I said. Becareful if you want more information i'll give you my hotmail e-mail address