Two ways to get it
- New IC-chip card (cards issued from January 2025 have a chip): install the 「모바일 신분증」 app, then tap the card on the back of your phone (NFC) when the app asks.
- Older card without a chip: you do not need to replace your card. At an immigration office counter you can scan a QR code with the app to set it up.
Where you can use it
The mobile card is accepted where the plastic card is: government offices, banks, hospitals and convenience stores (for age checks, for example). It also works as a login for many government websites — see how to log in.
Good to know
- It can only live on one phone. If you change phones, set it up again.
- Keep your plastic card. You still need it when you leave Korea for good, when you renew your stay and for anywhere that does not yet accept mobile IDs.
Official websites
- Korea Immigration Service (출입국·외국인정책본부) www.immigration.go.kr
- Gov24 (정부24) www.gov.kr
KoreaSum is not a government website.
We link only to official sites and re-check these guides, but fees, rules and screens change and can differ between offices. Before you go, confirm on the official site or call the Immigration Contact Center at 1345 (multilingual).