KT and Chosun University simplify access to postpaid SIMs for internationals

Representatives of Chosun University and KT's Jeolla office pose for a photo after signing a memorandum of understanding [KT]

KT's Jeolla office signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Chosun University to make it easier for international students to get postpaid SIM cards when they first enter Korea, according to the company on Sunday.

The MOU was signed at the Chosun University campus in Dong District, Gwangju, on April 12.

The university's international students will now be able to get a postpaid SIM with just their passport and a university enrollment certificate. They will not have to submit a residence card.

In Korea, foreign nationals need their residence card to get a postpaid phone number. During the two or three week period before they get their residence card, many choose to get prepaid SIMs and change to a postpaid card later.

"One of the biggest inconveniences for international students who have just entered Korea is not being able to have a Korean phone number until they get their residence card, thus having difficulties contacting the school or family," said Kim Jin-cheol, head of KT's Jeolla Province office.

"Through the MOU, we hope to help international students easily settle down in Korea and focus on their studies."

BY LEE TAE-HEE [lee.taehee2@joongang.co.kr]