1. Mobile data: eSIM, SIM or pocket Wi-Fi
| Option | Good for |
|---|---|
| eSIM | Newer phones. Install before you fly, switch on when you land. |
| Physical SIM | Older phones; pick it up at the airport counter. |
| Pocket Wi-Fi | Groups sharing one connection. |
You will want data for maps (Naver Map or Kakao Map work better in Korea than Google Maps for directions) and for translation.
Compare Korea eSIMs (Klook)2. A transport card
Busan's metro and buses run on rechargeable transport cards such as T-money. Buy one at a convenience store (airport, stations), then top it up with cash at the counter. Tap in, and tap out on the metro.
Option: Visit Busan Pass. A foreigners-only tourist pass (24h / 48h, or a set number of attractions). The physical card also works as a rechargeable transport card. It pays off if you plan several paid attractions; skip it if you mostly walk and eat.
Check Visit Busan Pass prices (Klook)
3. Paying
- Cards are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis and most restaurants.
- Carry some cash for transport-card top-ups, market stalls and street food.
- Withdraw cash at ATMs marked “Global” or at convenience-store ATMs.
Sources we checked
- City of Busan, Visit Busan Pass announcement, busan.go.kr
- VISIT BUSAN PASS official site (pass types and transport function)