Review Mizzou technology abroad for information about multifactor authentication, VPN and eduroam internet access. If you will not have access to your U.S. phone number for multifactor authentication, you should set up an alternate form of authentication before you go abroad.
Wi-Fi is generally accessible in urban areas of South Korea. Most restaurants, coffee shops and buildings on campus will have complimentary Wi-Fi. You can use apps on your smartphone or tablet that work over Wi-Fi to communicate with family and friends back home. Additionally, many Koreans purchase Wi-Fi eggs that provide portable internet for areas that do not have free access.
The most widely used app in Korea is KaKao Talk. You can download the app on any smart device while in the U.S. — we encourage all MU students going to South Korea in the same semester to connect with each other before leaving the country.
Cell phones with pre-paid minutes are available to purchase or rent in South Korea. If you bring your own, unlocked phone, you can purchase a pre-paid SIM card in Korea. Many wireless companies sell these cards at kiosks in the airport and at convenience stores. It is usually not in your best interest to sign up for a cell phone contract, and if you are staying six months or less, you usually can’t do that. Your family and loved ones back home may want to look into international calling programs with their own long distance carrier, because if you can receive calls in Korea, it will almost always be cheaper for them to call you.