Commercialization of eSIMs That Can Have Two Numbers on One Device in Korea

Reporter Choi Ha-eun

haeun.choi.2002@gmail.com

From September in Korea, people with cell phones can have two different numbers on one device by registering for an eSIM. Until now, users had to buy two cell phones, each with their own USIM, to have two numbers, but eSIMs provide another number that users can have for their work or personal use on their original device. Unlike when purchasing USIM cards, when buying an eSIM there is no need to visit a shop to buy a card since they are software applications and can be downloaded through QR codes. Therefore, contactless phone-starting and switching phone numbers between mobile carriers is much easier than in the past.

Smartphone eSIMs were first commercialized in 2016 and by 2020 175 mobile carriers in 69 countries had introduced eSIM services. According to the market research institution, Counterpoint Research, 50% of smartphones users will use eSIMs by 2025. Users can use two separate calling plans from different mobile carriers for USIM and eSIM.

However, not all smartphones are prepared for eSIM service yet. As of now, eSIMs will be available on Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 and Fold 4 phones. On the other hand, Apple has been supporting eSIM service since the iphone XS, but Korean mobile carriers did not provide eSIM services until this month. The price of eSIMs has been set at 2750 KRW per month while USIMs cost 7700 KRW per month.