Korean Job Discussion Forums

SeoulNate · Joined: 04 Jun 2010 Location: Hyehwa

Hey all,

I am sure it has been asked before, but there are far too many iphone threads to check :p

Anyway, after 4 years in Korea (3 of them wanting an iphone) my girlfriend has decided to take the plunge.

Our problem seems to be that KT only offers 2 year contracts to E-2 holders. We both recently renewed our contracts and our visas are current until 10/2011, giving us more than a year left. Kt is quoting about 700,000 for the phone, about 30-40 monthly, depending on usage, and if she cancels early, up to 400,000 won. She is willing to pay the 700,000 for the phone, but doesnt want to be stuck with the cancellation charge.

At any rate, we are not sure if we want to be here after our contract next year is finished and she really wants the damn phone.

Is there any way, short of having a Korean co-sign with power of attorney, to obtain a 1 year (or way around the 2 year) contract for an iphone on an E-2?

thanks!

nate

jhicks99 · Joined: 04 Mar 2009 Location: Seoul, South Korea

Isn't it the same thing?
If you get a 1 year contract you're going to have to pay a lot more for the phone up front or you'll have higher monthly fees to cover the remaining cost of the phone.

The cancellation penalty is typically what's left owing on the phone.

Taking the 2 year and cancelling it should theoretically cost you almost the same in the long run as the 1 year shouldn't it? With SK that's how it works at least (not sure about KT). If you're ok with it, why not just buy the whole thing up front (you're going to pay that amount anyway) and free yourself from the shackles of a cancellation penalty?