7 Best FREE VPN for South Korea (2025)
Alex Mitchell
Husain Parvez
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.
- 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.
After 100+ hours of research, I have carefully reviewed 40+ South Korea VPNs to present you with a trusted and insightful guide. My list includes both free and paid VPNs, detailing their features, pros and cons, and pricing. This in-depth review may help you find the perfect VPN for your needs. Read on to discover more credible information.
Best Free Korean VPN Server: Top Picks!
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#1 Best Overall
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| VPN Provider | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | FastestVPN |
| Number of servers: | 2000+ | 6400+ | 3200+ | 800+ |
| No. of Server Countries | 105 | 111 | 100 | 49+ |
| 24/7 support | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Max connections | 8 | 10 | Unlimited | 10 |
| Our Review |
Excellent – 9.8
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Excellent – 9.7
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Good – 9.6
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Good – 9.5
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| Free trial | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 31 days |
| Link | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now |
1) ExpressVPN
Top-notch Security
ExpressVPN is great for high-speed connectivity in South Korea, and I have found that it is one of the best options out there. I particularly like its multi-platform support and amazing security features. During my review process, I discovered that it offers top-notch DNS leak protection, a great kill switch, and remarkable encryption with 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 offers 2000+ servers across 105 countries, with 1 server in South Korea. This extensive network ensures I can connect quickly and reliably from anywhere in the world.
- Encryption: The VPN has 256-bit AES encryption and a unique Perfect Forward Secrecy feature that provided me with strong encryption and decryption of the information on the go.
- Protocol: It lets me 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 allows me to connect my VPN to the router and replace 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 I 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
Cons
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-Days Money-back Guarantee
2) NordVPN
Fastest Speed
NordVPN is my reliable VPN partner in South Korea. I would say it is one of the best VPNs for unblocking and streaming HD content. It is a great choice dueto its top-notch speed and smooth viewing experience.
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 6,400+ servers worldwide, including 10+ South Korean servers. These servers are optimized for specific purposes, which helped me with 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 offered a Dedicated IP option, Kill Switch, and Threat Protection features that added layers upon layers of security to my device.
- Protocol: NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol offers blazing-fast speeds to devices connecting worldwide. I also enjoyed its 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 provide me with a stress-free and enjoyable browsing experience in South Korea.
- Speed: NordVPN’s proprietary VPN protocol, NordLynx, boosts its speed. This ensures lightning-fast speed across all tunnels, and I would say it is a commendable alternative to 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
Cons
Why NordVPN for South Korea?
NordVPN is a smart choice for free Korean VPN. 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-Days Money-back Guarantee
3) Surfshark
Best VPN for Budget-friendly Plans
Surfshark provided me with a great browsing experience in South Korea. I particularly appreciate its feature that blocks ads and stops cookie pop-ups and trackers. Throughout my evaluation, I was able to connect unlimited devices with a single account, which is ideal.
Surfshar keeps your device safe online with its wide range of security features that enhance your browsing experience and keep your connection private. Surfshark has 3200+ in over 100 countries, including 8 in South Korea.
Features:
- Encryption: I could browse securely with industry-leading AES-256-GCM encryption. Other security features include DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and split tunneling.
- Protocol: The VPN offers WireGuard protocol. I could also find other protocol options, such as OpenVPN TCP, UDP, and IKEv2/IPsec.
- CleanWeb: Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature is a malware blocker that lets me clean up my cyber surfing and blocks ads, web trackers, and malicious websites.
- Camouflage Mode: With Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode, my IP address is concealed from the ISP. This enables private and secure browsing in South Korea.
- Privacy: I appreciate that Surfshark has a no-logs policy and is based in the Netherlands, a country known for its privacy-friendly laws. The VPN doesn’t collect my IP address, session information, browsing history, data usage, connection timestamps, or network traffic.
- Speed: Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol enables fast speed. I could stream 4K (UHD) videos, play online games, and chat on video calls without any noticeable speed lag.
- Supported Platforms: Surfshark has native apps for iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. It also has Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions.
- Customer Support: Surfshark VPN offers customer service through a chatbot, 24/7 live chat, and email requests. Its website has a huge knowledge-base that anyone can access for free.
Pros
Cons
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 making 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-Days Money-back Guarantee
4) FastestVPN
Cheapest Lifetime VPN Subscription
FastestVPN is my top pick for a lifetime VPN subscription service. Its fast speeds and secure encryption are ideal for protecting data. It uses the advanced encryption standard used by the CIA and the military. I was able to protect web pages using its Transport Layers Security Protocol (TLS).
It is one of the few legitimate lifetime subscription services. At just $40 for lifetime access, this company offers one of the best deals available. Moreover, this company has servers in 49+ countries and over 100+ locations.
Features:
- Servers: FastestVPN has 800+ servers across 49+ countries. It lets me access one of the 50 servers in Frankfurt or connect to physical servers in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, or Hong Kong.
- Split Tunneling: You can use split tunneling for any device compatible with FastestVPN. It lets me use Split Tunneling for various apps based on my choice. The dashboard even shows you the recommended apps based on previous experience with other users. This process simplifies your streaming situation.
- Dedicated Router App: While FastestVPN doesn’t have a dedicated router app, I could still connect my devices to the VPN if my router supports it. Following their instructions, I set up my VPN subscription on my router.
- Privacy: FastestVPN has DNS leak protection to guarantee a quality connection between your computer and the internet. The service detects a leak and cuts off your internet access to protect your data.I could then reconnect to the VPN to establish a secure connection without a leak.
- Supported Platform: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and more
Pros
Cons
How to Get FastestVPN for Free
- Step 1) Start your risk-free trial for FastestVPN
- Step 2) You can cancel your subscription at any time within 31 days. You get your money back – no questions asked
- Step 3) If you like the service, you may continue the subscription, as it costs just $40 for a lifetime subsription!
31-Days Money-back Guarantee
5) CyberGhost
Best For Streaming
CyberGhost is great VPN choice for South Korea. I particularly appreciate its ability to unblock popular streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+. According to my review, the optimized servers make it perfect for streaming.
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 4,000+ servers worldwide, including 24 in South Korea. The streaming, torrenting, and gaming-optimized servers offered me ultra-fast speed, reliable connectivity, and unrestrictive browsing experience of the entire web.
- Protocol: The VPN tunnels the connection between my device and the server with protocols such as WireGuard®, IKEv2, and OpenVPN.
- Encryption: CyberGhost’s watertight 256-bit AES encryption secured my online activity. It also concealed it from government interference, misdeeds, automated fraud, scams, and identity theft, which are pretty common in South Korea.
- Security: The VPN offered me security through great options like a 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. I found it especially important in countries such as 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
Cons
Why CyberGhost for South Korea?
CyberGhost is a low-cost, beginner-friendly VPN service with comprehensive security features. It 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-Days Money-back Guarantee
6) Private Internet Access
Widest Range of Servers
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable Virtual Private Network for protection in South Korea. It protects your device from cyber threats while using public WiFi. In my opinion, its key privacy features, like split tunneling and DNS leak protection, are essential for secure browsing.
With PIA, you can connect to as many devices as you want. Users also enjoy a global network of servers that unblocks major streaming platforms and easily bypass ISP speed throttling.
Features:
- Servers in South Korea: PIA has 35,000+ servers in 91 countries, including 15 Asian countries. However, I noticed that it doesn’t have a server in South Korea.
- Protocols: It lets me 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: As a user, I appreciate that PIA blocks malicious activities and ads with its built-in ad blocker. This makes it a great choice for anyone who values online privacy and security.
- Supported Platforms: PIA has native apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, and Android TVs. It also works on routers and has a Chrome browser extension.
Pros
Cons
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-Days Money-back Guarantee
7) Proton VPN
Best VPN With a Free Plan
Proton VPN allowed me to enjoy amazing protection and speed in South Korea. During my review, I noticed it combats censorship effectively with strong protocols and maintains fast speeds without losing quality. As per my review, it is a top-notch choice for privacy and performance.
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. Proton VPN has 6200+ in over 100+ countries, including 8 in South Korea.
Features:
- Encryption: The VPN offers military-grade AES-256 encryption, which is the latest and most in-use cryptography for VPNs. It also offered me Stealth protocol, which was excellent for bypassing censorship and geo-restrictions.
- 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. I was impressed with this VPN’s strict no-logs policy, which does not keep any records.
- Speed: Proton VPN has a specialized VPN Accelerator feature that boosts VPN connection speeds by over 400%. Speed is one of the leading factors to consider when choosing the best free VPN for Korea. Proton VPN lets me 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 support team offered me live chat and the option of raising tickets.
- Supported Platforms: Proton VPN offers me 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
Cons
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
30-Days Money-back Guarantee
How Did We Choose Best Free VPN For South Korea
At Guru99, we are committed to providing accurate, relevant, and objective information. After 100+ hours of research, I have carefully reviewed 40+ South Korea VPNs to offer a trusted and insightful guide, detailing their features, pros and cons, and pricing. This comprehensive review will help you find the perfect VPN for your needs, whether free or paid. Our dedication to credibility ensures that you receive reliable resources. When choosing the best free VPN for Korea, consider the top features highlighted in this guide for an informed decision. Read on to discover more credible information.
- 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!
How can I get a South Korean IP address?
You can get South Korea’s IP address in these simple steps:
- Step 1) Sign up for a VPN service provider with a South Korean server (For example, NordVPN)
- Step 2) Install the VPN on your device
- Step 3) Connect to a server in South Korea
That’s all. Once you are connected, you will get a South Korean IP address.
Is VPN illegal in South Korea?
No. Using a VPN provider is not illegal in South Korea. However, engaging in unlawful activities or accessing restricted content with a VPN remains illegal in the country. If you are caught using a VPN for such activities, you may face legal consequences, which include fines and imprisonment.
Verdict:
In this review, you got acquainted with some of the best VPN services tailored for Korea. All of them have their advantages and disadvantages. To help you take the final call, I have created this verdict.
- ExpressVPN is a top-notch choice with its blazing-fast speeds and robust security features. It also effortlessly bypasses geo-restrictions.
- NordVPN is an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive and secure service. It offers impressive privacy features and user-friendly functionality.
- Surfshark provides a cost-effective yet powerful solution, with customizable features that cater to those who prioritize both security and affordability.
