Korean Job Discussion Forums

[chachee99]

I want to pick up an iphone. I am not sure if E2 visas can get one because contracts are for 2 years. I have 12 months left on my current visa. I have seen people transferring iphone 3gs contracts to other people. I want to get an iphone 4, but I will do a contract transfer.

If you have any questions send me a PM.

[kapnoj]

E2 cannot get the iphone 4, not even F4 visa holders. i went to show and I couldn't get the iphone or even get the iphone to transfer to my name even with 3 year visa.

best way is to use a Korean person's ID

[oldtactics]

I don't have one, so I can't give you first hand information, but the December 2010 issue of Seoul magazine has a big ad on the back from KT, and it says "Get the same benefits as a native subscriber by purchasing your iPhone through the KT 'SmartSponsor' program, a program that gives you a progressively greater discount on your rate plan over time. No more worrying about whether your visa type qualifies, all are welcome. And best of all, no contracts."

There's a list of English-speaking stores, plus phone numbers and a twitter account for expats. No idea what the deal entails, but it's worth calling if you're interested.

I took a couple photos of it, if you're interested
1) http://i.imgur.com/cuCuv.jpg
2) http://i.imgur.com/d2qdE.jpg

[quilter]

Spoke with KT and they told me foreigners with an E2 can get an iPhone.

2 things are needed:

1. E2 visa must have at least six months remaining.

2. A Korean credit card with at least 2 years remaining before expiry.

Unfortunately, the credit card rules out most E2's, but it is possible.

[chachee99]

[aphase]

[jacksthirty]

I have an E2 and a Korean credit card and was able to get one. If you're in Seoul (or nearby) go to one of the Global KT stores and you should be fine.

Also, check the technology forum. There's on ongoing thread about iphone.

This is buying one new though. If you're looking for a used iphone 4, then I don't know!

[DerJon]

I have an E2 and NO Korean credit card. I got my iPhone 4 at Olleh KT Square in Gwanghwamun Seoul. Right next to the US embassy. I had a 3GS before, back then you had to buy the phone outright, but all went VERY smoothly.

[Drew10]

[suprd3vil]

E2 holders sure can get a iphone or most other smartphones without issues as your debit card with the visa or mastercard logo is sufficient if you don't have a korea credit card. I am in the middle of ordering mine online with no issues at all yet. I will be faxing them copies of my ARC, Passport, and Bankbook tonight and that will finish off my application.

Check out their ENGLISH site and they even have a twitter if you like.

http://expatblog.kt.com/2

[chachee99]

I went to an SK store and they told me that only f-visas can get an iphone. EVen though i told them i have credit, apparently that didn't matter. I should also point out that this was the store in Haebonchon.

I will try out that link. I am still considering an iphone 3gs if sk will let me transfer the contract.

[huck]

[kapnoj]

I went to a main branch and after talking to them I finally got it. It was a mistake by the worker.

[chachee99]

Ok, let me get this straight. KT will contract out the Iphone to foreigners with a Korean credit card SK will not. Do I have to buy the phone outright or will they put the phone on a contract?

[Drew10]