7 Best FREE VPN for Korea (Get a South Korean IP Address)
Lawrence Williams
South Korea offers free public WiFi across the country. Internet access also isn’t as restrictive in this futuristic country as in the rest of East Asia. However, the South Korean government does have a shady record of surveillance, censorship, and content restrictions.
The only way to have a safe browsing experience in South Korea is with a VPN that encrypts your IP address and builds an iron shield of protection between your device and the government. In addition to safety and privacy, a VPN also unblocks websites and popular international streaming platforms.
Your choice of free VPN services for South Korea must have a free plan option that lets you use the VPN without getting charged. It must also have standard privacy policies, security features, and a dense network of servers worldwide, including some in South Korea. Read more…
- South Korea has a dependable free public WiFi infrastructure, but the risks of hacking, fraud, and privacy violations remain persistent.
- A VPN helps you bypass government-mandated and geo-restrictions and secures your browsing experience.
- NordVPN is our leading choice of VPN in Korea, and it comes with a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Whereas Proton VPN has the best free plans.
Here are our picks for the best free South Korea VPNs.
Best Free Korean VPN: Top Picks!
|
#1 Best Overall
|
|
 |
 |
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| VPN Provider | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Atlas VPN | CyberGhost |
| Number of servers: | 5,700+ | 3,000+ | 700+ | 7000+ |
| No. of Server Countries | 60+ | 94 | 38+ | 90+ |
| 24/7 support | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Max connections | 6 | 5 | Unlimited | 7 |
| Our Review |
Excellent – 9.8
 |
Excellent – 9.7
 |
Good – 9.6
|
Good – 9.5
|
| Free trial | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Link | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now |
1) NordVPN
Fastest Speed
NordVPN is a reliable VPN partner in South Korea. Often called a “speed demon” for its superfast speed, this VPN is an excellent tool for unblocking and streaming HD content in the country.
Users also get a host of security and privacy features, which include Double VPN, built-in ad blockers, and Onion Over VPN. The smooth interface and automatic server selection make NordVPN an easy-to-use VPN for beginners and seasoned users.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: NordVPN has 5700+ servers worldwide, including 10+ South Korean servers. These servers are optimized for specific purposes such as P2P file-sharing and cyber security.
- Encryption: Users get the ironclad AES-256 encryption and special protection against DNS and port-forwarding leaks. NordVPN also offers a Dedicated IP option, Kill Switch, and Threat Protection features that add layers upon layers of security to your device.
- Protocol: NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol offers blazing fast to devices connecting worldwide. It also has superior protocol options, such as OpenVPN and IKEv2.
- Privacy: The VPN has a PwC-audited No-Logs Policy and watertight user privacy standards. It is based in privacy-friendly Panama, ensuring no user data is monitored, logged, or sold to any third party.
- CyberSec: NordVPN’s built-in CyberSec feature filters malware and blocks shady sites, annoying pop-ups, and malicious websites. It also filters spam and malware to enable a stress-free and enjoyable browsing experience in South Korea.
- Speed: NordVPN’s speed is boosted by its proprietary VPN protocol, NordLynx. This ensures lightning-fast speed across all tunnels and is a commendable alternative against activity-based speed throttling.
- Customer Support: Users get premium customer service in South Korea via 24/7 live chatbot, Email, and knowledge base guides. NordVPN’s customer service agents are intelligent, professionally trained, and respond within minutes.
- Supported platforms: NordVPN is compatible with Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, MacOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Android TV. It also works well on Amazon Firestick, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Chromebook, and Amazon Kindle.
Pros
Powered by NordLynx, one of the fastest protocols in the world
Unblocks nearly all international streaming channels, as well as South Korean content sites
Multiple servers in South Korea
Cons
Difficulty in setting up Open-VPN protocol on the router
Why NordVPN for South Korea?
NordVPN is a smart choice for free Korean VPN, as users also get a South Korean IP address to unblock local websites, TV shows, and news channels when they are abroad. The VPN’s add-on security features minimize the possibility of hacking and cybercrimes in the region.
How To Get NordVPN for Free
- Step 1) Sign up for NordVPN
- Step 2) Choose a plan and complete the payment
- Step 3) Ask for a refund from the NordVPN team within 30 days
30-Day Free Trial
2) ExpressVPN
Top-notch Security
ExpressVPN is a dynamic and stable VPN that offers multi-platform support and high-speed connectivity in South Korea. This VPN has premium security features such as DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and Perfect Forward Secrecy.
With ExpressVPN, Users get a strict privacy policy, the latest encryption protocols, and wide-reaching physical and proxy servers that can unblock international streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: ExpressVPN has 3000+ servers in 94 countries, including 1 in South Korea. The wide range of servers enables fast speed and reliable connectivity in every region of the globe.
- Encryption: The VPN has 256-bit AES encryption and a unique Perfect Forward Secrecy feature that encrypts and decrypts information on the go.
- Protocol: Users can select from ExpressVPN’s hyper-fast Lightway protocol and OpenVPN. Both offer outstanding tunneling for users based in or visiting South Korea.
- Privacy: ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy. It is based outside of the anti-privacy circle, and the company doesn’t keep any records of user data, login activity, or IP address of the server networks.
- MediaStreamer: The VPN comes with a smart MediaStreamer feature that connects your VPN to the router and replaces the DNS server IP address with Media Streamer’s IP address.
- Customer Service: The customer support staff is available 24/7 via live chat. Additionally, ExpressVPN maintains an online information library that anyone can freely access.
- Supported Platforms: ExpressVPN is compatible with mobiles, laptops, phones, smart TVs, and routers. It has Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Amazon FireTV apps. It also has identical and fully functional Safari, Firefox, and Chrome browser extensions.
Pros
Unblocks nearly every international streaming service, including Amazon Prime Video
Independently tested no-logs policy
Accessible and functional app layout
Cons
Limited to 5 simultaneous connections
Why ExpressVPN for South Korea?
ExpressVPN excels in accessibility, privacy, and speed fronts, making it one of the best free VPNs for Korea. It is the trusted VPN partner for over 4 million active subscribers and has a solid stack of security features for a safe browsing experience in South Korea.
How to Get ExpressVPN for Free
- Step 1) Visit ExpressVPN’s official website
- Step 2) Pick a plan and complete the payment
- Step 3) Use the VPN for 30 days
- Step 4) Apply for a refund with the 30-day money-back guarantee
30-Day Free Trial
3) AtlasVPN
Best Anti-Censorship Features
AtlasVPN is another leading VPN choice for South Korea. The VPN offers a full-fledged free subscription with a 5GB data limit per month and access to free VPN servers in New York, Amsterdam, and Los Angeles.
Users also get standard security and privacy features that prevent censorship-prone ISPs and third parties from gaining access to logging data.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: The VPN service has a wide range of VPN servers scattered in 38 countries. However, it does not have a server in South Korea.
- Encryption: Atlas VPN has a fireproof AES 256-bit encryption. This provides a sophisticated level of protection around your IP address in South Korea and minimizes the risk of IP leaks, DNS leaks, or WebRTC leaks.
- SafeSwap: This VPN has unique SafeSwap servers that assign a pool of IP addresses to each VPN device. The IP addresses are swapped periodically, which makes it nearly impossible to be tracked online.
- Data Breach Monitor: Atlas VPN’s Data Breach Monitor sends an alert whenever there is a breach in the network or a sudden drop in connectivity. The kill switch mode accompanies the feature, which instantly disconnects the breached or lapsed connection.
- Protocols: This VPN has the high-speed WireGuard protocol. It also offers the IKEv2/IPSec protocol option that works best on remote devices and doesn’t lag when switching from mobile data to public WiFi.
- Privacy: Users get a strict no-logs policy with Atlas VPN. The company doesn’t store any user information or logs. Although it is based in the U.S., the VPN offers standard privacy features for a private browsing experience.
- MultiHop+: The VPN’s MultiHop+ features tunnel your connection through not just one but multiple rotating VPN locations. This hides your IP address behind several layers of encryption and protects your online traffic.
- Supported Platform: Atlas VPN has apps for Android, Windows, Linux, macOS, and iOS devices. The VPN connects to Android TV and Amazon FireTV with ease and also has extensions for desktop browsers like Chrome and Safari.
Pros
Unlimited connections with a paid plan
Novice-friendly interface
Extended security features such as Tracker Blocker and Stealth VPN
Cons
Split tunneling is only available for Android devices
Why Atlas VPN for South Korea?
Atlas VPN is a free Korean VPN with best-in-the-game security features and standard privacy policies. If you’re in South Korea for a brief period, you can use its free plan for premium VPN service and features.
How to Get Atlas VPN for Free
- Step 1)Visit Atlas VPN’s website and download the free app
- Step 2) Register for the app with your Email ID
- Step 3) Use the free VPN service
30-Day Free Trial
4) CyberGhost
Best For Streaming
CyberGhost is a solid VPN choice for use in South Korea. The VPN unblocks leading streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video with its streaming-optimized servers.
With CyberGhost, users in and out of South Korea get military-level encryption, a complete stack of security features, and a tested No-logs policy that protects customer privacy.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: CyberGhost has 7,000+ servers worldwide, including 24 in South Korea. The streaming, torrenting, and gaming-optimized servers offer ultra-fast speed, reliable connectivity, and unrestrictive browsing experience of the entire web. browsing experience of the entire web.
- Protocol: The VPN tunnels the connection between your device and the server with protocols such as WireGuard®, IKEv2, and OpenVPN.
- Encryption: CyberGhost’s watertight 256-bit AES encryption secures your online activity and conceals it from government interference, misdeeds, automated fraud, scams, and identity theft, which are pretty common in South Korea.
- Security: The VPN offers security through features such as token-based Dedicated IP address, split tunneling, Kill Switch, automated WiFi Protection, and RAM-Only Servers.
- Speed: CyberGhost’s ultra-fast servers always offer fast speeds and unfettered Internet access. This is especially important in countries South Korea, where Internet Service Providers slow down speeds during high-traffic hours.
- Privacy: This company is based in Romania and has a proven history of upholding privacy-friendly laws. The VPN also has a strong No-Logs policy that Deloitte has tested.
- Supported Platforms: CyberGhost has apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Fire TV, Apple TV, Smart TVs, and Linux. It also works with premium gaming consoles and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
Pros
Uncomplicated app layout
Device compatibility with nearly every gaming console
Integrated ad-blocker for protection from pop-ups and virus
Cons
Limited payment options
Dodgy privacy policies
Why CyberGhost for South Korea?
CyberGhost is a low-cost and beginner-friendly VPN service with comprehensive security features. The VPN is suitable for Korea due to its privacy features, content-unblocking abilities, and consistent high-speed Internet.
How To Get CyberGhost for Free
- Step 1) Go to the official CyberGhost’s website
- Step 2) Register for an account and buy a subscription
- Step 3) Finish the payment
- Step 4) Apply for a refund within 45 days
45-Day Free Trial
5) Private Internet Access
Widest Range of Servers
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a versatile and old-school Virtual Private Network that protects your device from cyber threats and other risks while using public WiFi in South Korea. It is a configurable and feature-packed VPN with leading privacy and data security features like split tunneling, DNS leak protection, and built-in ad blocking.
You can connect to as many devices as you want with PIA. Users also enjoy a global network of servers that unblock major streaming platforms and easily bypass ISP speed throttling.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: PIA has 35,000+ servers in 84 countries, including 15 Asian countries. However, it doesn’t have a server in South Korea.
- Protocols: Users can select from OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols with PIA. While WireGuard guarantees blazing speed, the OpenVPN protocol focuses on protective features and is excellent for those prioritizing safety in South Korea.
- Roaming VPN: South Korea enjoys free and public WiFi across the country. However, using public WiFi opens your device to many risks. PIA’s Roaming VPN feature switches and reconnects the VPN to public WiFi without losing connectivity.
- MACE Ad Blockers: PIA blocks malicious activities and ads through its built-in and supercharged ad blocker, making it one of the best VPNs for Korea.
- Supported Platforms: PIA has native apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, and Android TVs. It also works on routers and has a browser extension for Chrome.
Pros
Affordable plans
Superfast WireGuard protocol
Seamless connectivity on mobile devices
Anonymous payment options
Cons
Lack of split tunneling feature in iOS
Disappointing customer service
Based in the U.S.
Why PIA for South Korea?
Private Internet Access has open-source protocols and a host of security features, such as a kill switch and no-usage-logs policy to protect your online activity in South Korea.
How to Get Private Internet Access for Free
- Step 1) Go to PIA’s website and select a PIA plan
- Step 2) Finish the payment
- Step 3) Enjoy the VPN
- Step 4) Ask for a refund within 30 days
30-Day Free Trial
6) Surfshark
Best VPN for Budget-friendly Plans
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN and a great option to use in South Korea. The VPN offers web surfing without ads, cookie pop-ups, or trackers and connects to unlimited devices with a single account.
Surfshar keeps your device safe online with its wide range of security features that enhance your browsing experience and keep your connection private.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: Surfshark has 3200+ in over 100 countries, including 8 in South Korea.
- Encryption: Users can browse securely with industry-leading AES-256-GCM encryption. Security features include DNS leak protection, kill switch, and split tunneling.
- Protocol: The VPN offers WireGuard protocol. It also has other protocol options, such as OpenVPN TCP, UDP, and IKEv2/IPsec.
- CleanWeb: Surfshark’s very own CleanWeb feature is a malware blocker that enables clean cyber surfing and blocks ads, web trackers, and malicious websites.
- Camouflage Mode: With the Camouflage Mode in Surfshark, your IP address is concealed from the ISP. This enables private and secure browsing in South Korea.
- Privacy: Surfshark has a no-logs policy, and it is based in the Netherlands, which is a noted privacy-friendly country. The VPN does not collect IP addresses, session information, browsing history, data usage, connection timestamps, and network traffic.
- Speed: Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol enables fast speed. Users can stream 4K (UHD) videos, play online games, and chat on video calls without any noticeable speed lag.
- Customer Support: Surfshark VPN offers customer service in the form of a chatbot, 24/7 live chat, and email requests. The company also manages a huge knowledge base on its website, which can be accessed by anyone for free.
- Supported Platforms: Surfshark has native apps for iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. It also has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
Pros
Ample servers in South Korea
MultiHop security feature that rotates IP address with each connection
Unblocks major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime
Cons
Noticeable speed drop with select protocols
Why Surfshark for South Korea?
Surfshark is one of the best Korean VPNs for speed, thanks to its 10 Gbps servers in 100+ countries. The VPN also has budget-friendly plans and top-notch security standards, which makes it a commendable choice for everyday use in South Korea.
How To Get Surfshark For Free
- Step 1) Visit the Surfshark website
- Step 2) Buy a Surfshark subscription
- Step 3) Download the Surfshark app on your device
- Step 4)4 Use the VPN for 30 days
- Step 5) Apply for a refund with its 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee policy
30-Day Free Trial
7) Proton VPN
Best VPN With a Free Plan
Proton VPN fights online censorship and is a trusted VPN in South Korea. The VPN conceals your online activity through its ironclad protocols and offers great speed without compromising quality.
Since it’s the sister company of Proton Mail, the world’s largest encrypted email provider, Proton VPN is deeply invested in making Internet connections more secure and private. The VPN also minimizes data leaks or security breaches with its unique Perfect Forward Secrecy feature.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: Proton VPN has 1300+ in over 60 countries, including 8 in South Korea.
- Encryption: The VPN offers military-grade AES-256 encryption, which is the latest and most in-use cryptography for VPNs.
- Protocol: Proton VPN is one of the very few VPNs that offers WireGuard protocol. Users also get other options, such as OpenVPN TCP, OpenVPN UDP, and IKEv2/IPsec.
- Privacy: The VPN follows a strict no-logs policy and keeps no records.
- Speed: Proton VPN has a specialized VPN Accelerator feature that boosts the speed of VPN connection speeds by over 400%. Speed is one of the leading factors to consider in the best free VPN for Korea. Proton VPN lets you connect to any server worldwide to get a consistently fast and stable browsing experience.
- Customer Support: Proton VPN publishes user guides and resourceful content on its website. The team is also active on social media sites like Reddit to quickly resolve queries and formal complaints. Additionally, the Proton VPN customer success team offers live chat and the option of raising tickets to paid users.
- Supported Platforms: Proton VPN offers multi-platform support for all devices, including computers, tablets, PlayStation, laptops, smart TVs, and phones. Proton VPN has Android, Chromebook, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Linux apps.
Pros
Feature-packed free plan
Wide range of servers in South Korea
Stealth protocol, which is excellent for bypassing censorship and geo-restrictions
Fast speed for streaming HD videos
Cons
Lack of P2P servers
Why Proton VPN for South Korea?
Proton VPN offers one of the best free VPNs in Korea and has a commendable free plan. The VPN has a strong network of servers offering high-speed 10 Gbps connections for streaming local Korean content and international streaming sites in Korea.
How to Get Proton VPN for Free
- Step 1) Sign up for Proton VPN’s free VPN through this link
- Step 2) Create a free Proton VPN account by entering your details
- Step 3) Finish your registration
- Step 4) Download the Proton VPN app and enjoy your free VPN
Free For 3 Countries
Top Features To Look For In A Free VPN For South Korea
Many VPNs in the market offer a premium service on free and discounted plans. When selecting the best free VPN for Korea, you must consider these top features:
- Server in South Korea: Having a Korea VPN with servers in the country gives you a South Korean IP address, along with fast speed and uninterrupted connection.
- Privacy and Security: Your review of the best VPN for Korea must have robust security features, best-in-class encryption, and a wide range of protocols that can build an impenetrable layer of security around your connection.
- Speed: The free VPN for South Korea must have a fast and reliable connection and rock-solid servers that minimize the chances of speed throttling or disturbance.
- Data Limit: Your review of the best VPN for South Korea must include factors such as data and bandwidth limits. It is preferable to have unlimited data on your free plan.
- Simultaneous Connections: It is preferred to have a free VPN that can connect to as many devices as possible. The VPN must also be compatible with the router, enabling the provider to connect to unlimited devices.
- Supported Platforms: The free VPN in review must be compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, and other popular kinds of devices.
Why You Need A VPN in South Korea
You need a VPN, even in tech-savvy countries like South Korea. Here’s why:
- Censorship: The South Korean government reserves the right to block any portal or site that is deemed indecent or provocative. A VPN allows you to evade censorship and have unfettered access to the Internet.
- Surveillance: The South Korean government has engaged in mass surveillance through SNI technology. A VPN encrypts your traffic so no government entity can access your information.
- Arrest and Conviction: In South Korea, you can be jailed for engaging in online behavior that is deemed illegal by the government. Hundreds of South Koreans have gotten unfair sentences because of their Internet activity. A VPN protects you from the authorities by masking your IP address.
- Anonymous Browsing: South Korea has strict anti-anonymity laws that require internet users to identify themselves if they want to join a public forum. For anonymous browsing and publishing, you need a VPN.
- Streaming: To access international content from around the world, including Netflix U.S., you need the best Korean VPN that can bypass restrictions and enable a high-quality HD streaming experience in South Korea.
- High-speed Internet: South Korean Internet service providers are notorious for activity-based speed throttling. A VPN enables seamlessly fast Internet in every region of the country.
- Hacking and Fraud: Automated fraud and hacking is rampant in South Korea. The threat doubles when you’re using public WiFi. A VPN is the only way to secure your device against such activities.
How To Watch South Korean TV Shows With A Free VPN?
South Korean entertainment is known around the globe for its spicy K-dramas and epic reality shows. Here’s how you can watch South Korean Netflix and other local channels with a VPN:
Step 1) Sign up for a VPN provider with servers in South Korea, such as ExpressVPN.
Step 2) Connect to a server in South Korea
Step 3) Go to local channels like KBS, JTBC, and EBS and get a subscription.
That’s all. Happy streaming!
FAQ
Best Free Korean VPN: Top Picks!
|
#1 Best Overall
|
|
|
|
|
| VPN Provider | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Atlas VPN | CyberGhost |
| Number of servers: | 5,700+ | 3,000+ | 700+ | 7000+ |
| No. of Server Countries | 60+ | 94 | 38+ | 90+ |
| 24/7 support | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Max connections | 6 | 5 | Unlimited | 7 |
| Our Review |
Excellent – 9.8
|
Excellent – 9.7
|
Good – 9.6
|
Good – 9.5
|
| Free trial | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Link | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now |
Conclusion
A VPN is your best defense against rampant internet censorship, surveillance, and security risks in South Korea. You can have a secure, private, high-speed browsing experience with a trusted VPN.
If speed is your priority, then NordVPN will be our leading recommendation as the best VPN for South Korea. The runner-up is ExpressVPN, which offers above-average speed and smart security features. Whereas if you want to browse free plans, Proton VPN is our leading choice.