Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Mikejelai]

I bought a Samsung Galaxy S3 while working in eastern Europe last year and am wondering how to use it now here in Korea. By the way, I still have/use the same old LG 'slider' phone here (and same LG phone number/account) that I have used here in Korea for the last 7-8 years.

I want to stop using the old phone and transfer my Galaxy S3 to this account. Can I do this? I would like to keep the same phone number if possible. Is there any disadvantage to having LG as the account provider (for internet purposes, etc.)? Can any LG store do this or would it be easier to take it to an LG store in Itaewon/Haebongchon/Hongdae/etc?

[Jake_Kim]

The brand name 'Samsung Galaxy S3' by itself doesn't mean anything because Samsung does not follow the policy of universally identical device which Apple once maintained up until the release of iPhone 5.

You need to figure out which frequency of 3G (and perhaps LTE if applicable) your European version of Galaxy S3 supports, and see if it matches up with the frequencies of either SKT or Olleh KT.

LGU+ never had the network infrastructure for 3G WCDMA/UMTS (much like Verizon Wireless in the US) thus functionality of your S3 will be crippled even if your phone is compatible with LGU's LTE bands.

Worrying about hooking your S3 to your LGU number and account comes only afterwards.

[tob55]

The best way to navigate through this is to first see if your phone is on the same frequency used by the company in Eastern Europe. If it is not, then you will have to have your smartphone unlocked through some service and then acquire a new SIM card from your Korean provider, which should allow you to use your phone in the local zone. It isn't all that difficult to do, but you need to find a reputable service provider to do it. Of course the local shop owners are going to tell you it is impossible, since they want to sell you a new smartphone, but it is quite possible and makes good sense to do what needs to be done so you can use your phone in Korea.

[Mikejelai]

It is marketed internationally as the GT 19300....

[tob55]

[Mikejelai]

Thanks for the info; yes, it has quad-core capability so it should work here I believe.... Will go to service provider today and ask about keeping the same phone number as I currently have....