A Comprehensive Guide: How to Call Korea from the US with Verizon
Have you ever found yourself needing to call a friend, family member, or business associate in South Korea from the United States, and then realized you're not quite sure how to do it with your Verizon service? Don't worry, you're definitely not alone! International calls can seem a bit daunting with all the codes and time differences, but with the right information, it's actually quite straightforward.
This lengthy post will walk you through every step you need to take to successfully call South Korea from the US using Verizon, covering everything from the dialing format to understanding your plan options and even smart tips to save money.
Step 1: Let's Get Ready to Dial!
Before we dive into the technicalities, let's make sure you have the essential information at your fingertips. Imagine you're about to embark on a mini-mission to connect across continents! What's the very first thing you need to know?
The Full Korean Phone Number: This includes the local area code and the subscriber number. Double-check it! Even a single wrong digit can lead to a failed call or, worse, connect you to a complete stranger.
Your Verizon Plan: Are you on a postpaid plan, prepaid, or a business account? Knowing this will help you determine the most cost-effective way to call.
Got those two things ready? Fantastic! Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of dialing.
Step 2: Mastering the Dialing Code Sequence
Calling internationally from the US requires a specific sequence of numbers. Think of it like a secret handshake to connect your call across borders.
Sub-heading: The Standard International Dialing Format
For most international calls from the US, including to South Korea, you'll follow this general format:
011 + Country Code + Area Code (if applicable) + Local Phone Number
Let's break down each part for calling South Korea:
Sub-heading: Breaking Down the Codes for South Korea
011: The US Exit Code
This is the international access code you dial from the United States to indicate you're making an international call. It tells your phone network to connect you outside the US.
Tip for Smartphones: On many smartphones, you can simply hold down the '0' key until a '+' symbol appears. This '+' symbol often acts as a universal international direct dial (IDD) prefix and will automatically include the necessary exit code for your location. So, you could dial
+82instead of01182.
82: The South Korea Country Code
Every country has a unique code, and for South Korea, it's 82. This tells the network where your call is headed globally.
Korean Area Code (without the leading 0 if present):
South Korea uses area codes for different regions. It's crucial to note that when calling from outside South Korea, you generally drop the leading '0' that Koreans use when dialing domestically.
Common South Korean Area Codes (Examples):
Seoul: 2 (so you'd dial 82-2...)
Busan: 51 (so you'd dial 82-51...)
Ulsan: 52 (so you'd dial 82-52...)
Incheon: 32 (so you'd dial 82-32...)
Daejeon: 42 (so you'd dial 82-42...)
Gwangju: 62 (so you'd dial 82-62...)
Always confirm the correct area code for the specific number you are calling.
Local Phone Number:
This is the final part – the actual local number of the person or business you're trying to reach. Korean phone numbers typically have 7 or 8 digits after the area code.
Putting it all together (Example):
Let's say you want to call a landline in Seoul with the number 1234-5678.
Using 011: Dial
011-82-2-1234-5678Using '+': Dial
+82-2-1234-5678
For a mobile number, the area code is usually incorporated into the mobile number itself (which starts with 010 domestically). When calling from the US, you still drop the leading '0' from the mobile prefix. So, if a mobile number is 010-ABCD-EFGH, you would dial:
Using 011:
011-82-10-ABCD-EFGHUsing '+':
+82-10-ABCD-EFGH
Always confirm the exact format of the number you are calling.
Step 3: Understanding Verizon's International Calling Options
Now that you know how to dial, let's talk about what it costs and how to manage those costs with Verizon. Verizon offers several ways to make international calls, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Sub-heading: Pay-As-You-Go Rates
If you don't have an international calling plan, Verizon will charge you "pay-as-you-go" rates. These rates can be quite expensive per minute, so it's generally not recommended for anything more than a very brief, infrequent call.
For South Korea, standard per-minute rates without a plan can be several dollars per minute. Check Verizon's official international calling page for the most current rates for South Korea to avoid bill shock.
Sub-heading: Verizon's International Calling Plans
Verizon offers a variety of international calling plans that can significantly reduce your per-minute costs. These are highly recommended if you plan to call South Korea regularly or for extended periods.
Global Choice:
What it is: This plan allows you to choose one specific country (like South Korea) and get a bundle of minutes to call that country for a fixed monthly fee (e.g., $10/month).
Benefit: Excellent for frequent calls to a single destination. After you use your included minutes, you'll still get a discounted per-minute rate to that country.
How to add: You can typically add this through the My Verizon app, My Verizon online, or by texting a specific keyword for South Korea (check Verizon's website for the exact keyword) to 4004.
Global Calling Plus:
What it is: This plan offers broader international coverage with unlimited calling to Canada and Mexico, and discounted rates to many other countries worldwide, including South Korea.
Benefit: Good for those who call various international destinations, not just one.
How to add: Usually available via the My Verizon app, My Verizon online, or by texting "PLUS" to 4004.
Global Calling:
What it is: This is often a more basic plan, providing unlimited calling to Mexico & Canada, and then discounted rates to over 220+ countries, including South Korea.
Benefit: A good general option if your calling needs are diverse but still require cost-effective international rates.
How to add: Typically via the My Verizon app, My Verizon online, or by texting "Global" to 4004.
Important Note: When you add an International Calling plan, it will replace any existing International Calling plan on your line. Always review the full details and terms of any plan before adding it to ensure it meets your specific calling needs and budget.
Step 4: Considering Alternatives for Calling South Korea
While direct dialing and Verizon's plans are excellent options, there are other ways to connect with people in South Korea that can be even more cost-effective, especially if you have a reliable internet connection.
Sub-heading: VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Apps
These apps use your internet data (Wi-Fi or cellular data) to make calls, often for free or at very low rates.
Popular Options:
WhatsApp: If the person in South Korea also uses WhatsApp, you can make free voice and video calls over Wi-Fi or data. Extremely popular worldwide.
Skype: Offers free Skype-to-Skype calls, and very competitive rates for calling landlines and mobile phones in South Korea. You'll need to purchase Skype Credit.
Google Voice: Can provide free calls to certain countries and low rates to others. Check their current rates for South Korea.
FaceTime (for Apple users): If both you and the recipient have Apple devices, you can make free audio and video calls over Wi-Fi or data.
Benefits: Can be significantly cheaper or free. Great for long conversations.
Considerations: Requires both parties to have the app (for free calls) and a stable internet connection. Data charges may apply if not on Wi-Fi.
Sub-heading: Wi-Fi Calling
If your Verizon phone supports Wi-Fi Calling and it's enabled, you can make calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of the cellular network. When you call internationally using Wi-Fi Calling from the US, it's often treated as a domestic call, but international rates for the destination country may still apply.
Check with Verizon's specific Wi-Fi calling international rates, as they can vary. It's primarily beneficial for making calls to the US when you are abroad, or for making calls in areas with poor cellular reception.
Step 5: Time Zone Awareness: Don't Wake Them Up!
This is a critical step that many people overlook! South Korea observes Korean Standard Time (KST), which is UTC+9 hours. The US has multiple time zones, so the time difference can vary significantly.
Sub-heading: Calculating the Time Difference
General Rule: South Korea is significantly ahead of all US time zones.
Eastern Standard Time (EST): South Korea is 13 hours ahead. (e.g., if it's 9 PM EST on Monday, it's 10 AM KST on Tuesday).
Central Standard Time (CST): South Korea is 14 hours ahead.
Mountain Standard Time (MST): South Korea is 15 hours ahead.
Pacific Standard Time (PST): South Korea is 16 hours ahead.
Sub-heading: Best Times to Call
Consider the recipient's local time in South Korea to avoid calling too early in the morning or too late at night. For instance, if you're on EST and want to call during their evening (say, 7 PM KST), you would need to call at 6 AM EST.
A quick online "time zone converter" tool is your best friend here! Simply input your US city and Seoul, South Korea, to see the current time difference.
Step 6: Tips for Saving Money and Troubleshooting
Making international calls efficiently involves a bit of planning.
Sub-heading: Smart Calling Habits
Utilize Wi-Fi whenever possible: If you're using VoIP apps, connect to Wi-Fi to avoid using your cellular data, which can be expensive, especially when roaming (if you're the one traveling).
Monitor your usage: If you're on a plan with limited international minutes, keep an eye on your usage through the My Verizon app to avoid overage charges.
Consider text messaging: For quick communications, international text messages can be a cost-effective alternative to calls, depending on your plan.
Save numbers in your contacts: Once you have the correct international dialing format for a contact, save it in your phone's contacts. This prevents errors and speeds up future calls.
Check for special offers: Verizon frequently has promotions or temporary discounts on international calling. Keep an eye on their website or your My Verizon account for these.
Sub-heading: Common Troubleshooting Steps
"Call failed" or "Number not recognized":
Double-check the dialing sequence: Ensure you have
011(or+), followed by82, then the correct area code (without the leading 0 if present), and finally the local number.Verify the number: Ask the recipient to confirm their full international number.
Check your Verizon account: Ensure international calling is enabled on your line. Sometimes, it needs to be specifically activated.
Poor call quality:
If using VoIP: Check your internet connection strength. A weak Wi-Fi signal can lead to choppy calls.
If on cellular: Move to an area with better Verizon cellular reception.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to add an international calling plan to my Verizon account?
You can add an international calling plan through the My Verizon app, by logging into your My Verizon account online, or by texting specific keywords (like "Global," "Plus," or the country keyword for Global Choice) to 4004.
How to find the specific area code for a city in South Korea?
You can find specific area codes for South Korean cities by searching online for "South Korea area codes" or checking reliable international dialing guides. Remember to drop the leading '0' when dialing from the US.
How to use a '+' symbol instead of '011' on my Verizon phone?
On most smartphones, you can press and hold the '0' key until it converts to a '+' symbol. This '+' symbol automatically includes the correct international exit code for your location.
How to know if my Verizon plan already includes international calling to Korea?
Check your current Verizon plan details on the My Verizon app or online account. Most standard domestic plans do not include international long-distance calling without an add-on, but some premium plans might.
How to call a South Korean mobile number from the US with Verizon?
Dial 011 (or +), then 82 (country code), then 10 (the mobile prefix, dropping the leading '0'), followed by the 8-digit mobile number. Example: 011-82-10-XXXX-XXXX.
How to check Verizon's international calling rates for South Korea?
Visit the official Verizon Wireless website and navigate to their "International Calling" or "International Long Distance" section. You can usually enter the country name (South Korea) to see the current pay-as-you-go rates and available plans.
How to save money when calling Korea frequently?
Consider adding a Verizon international calling plan like Global Choice (if you primarily call South Korea) or Global Calling Plus. Alternatively, use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice over Wi-Fi.
How to handle time differences when calling Korea from the US?
Use an online time zone converter tool. South Korea is significantly ahead of US time zones (e.g., 13-16 hours ahead). Plan your call times to be convenient for the recipient in Korea.
How to troubleshoot a "call failed" message when calling Korea?
Verify the entire dialing sequence: 011 (or +) followed by 82, then the correct area code (without leading 0), and the local number. Also, ensure international calling is enabled on your Verizon account.
How to send an international text message to South Korea with Verizon?
For South Korea, you typically use the standard international format for texting: 011 (or +) followed by 82, then the full mobile number (including the '10' prefix without the leading 0). Your plan may have separate rates for international texting.
