ASIA - South Korea's mobile phone service system has launched a new and streamlined prepaid sim card service to make it easier for business travellers in Seoul to keep connected with co-workers.

The prepaid sim service allows inbound tourists to use their existing smart phones purchased overseas, and this new option serves as a cheaper and more convenient alternative to existing roaming services and phone rentals.

Two options are currently available and are dependent on the length of stay. Stopover tourists in Seoul can have their current sim cards switched with a fully-functioning local Universal SIM card (USIM) by visiting O2 Mobile centre at the Coex City Air Terminal located next to Seoul's largest convention centre. Those staying longer can opt for the 'OLLEH Simple' prepaid sim card plan by visiting a KT Global store. All devices need to be WDCMA and 3G compatible.

The prepaid service means visitors do not have to worry about any last-minute fees owed when departing the country, and O2 Mobile international calls may work out cheaper than local calls with claims that calls to the US will cost $10 per 138 minutes.

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