Using a prepaid SIM card in North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) is very different from anywhere else in the world. Mobile access is strictly controlled, internet access is severely limited, and services are usually available only to specific user groups, such as foreign visitors, diplomats, or approved residents.
This guide provides an overview of everything currently known about North Korean prepaid SIM cards, including availability, networks, pricing, coverage, and alternatives.
Basic Information
- Country: North Korea (DPRK)
- Mobile Networks:
- Koryolink (고려링크)
- Byol (별) Star
- Kang Song NET 467/06
- SIM Type: Physical SIM only (no local eSIM)
- Internet Access:
- Domestic intranet (Kwangmyong)
- Very limited international access (foreigners only)
- Tourist SIM: Yes (restricted)
- Registration: Mandatory (passport-based)
Availability
Prepaid SIM cards in North Korea are not freely available to the public.
- Foreign visitors: Limited access via approved channels
- Local citizens: Domestic networks only (no global internet)
- Journalists & diplomats: Special permission required
- Roaming: International roaming is not supported
Where to Buy
You can only purchase a SIM card at authorized locations, usually arranged by:
- Government-approved tour operators
- Pyongyang International Airport (limited counter access)
- Selected Koryolink offices in Pyongyang (with escort)
❌ No online ordering
❌ No third-party resellers
❌ No airport kiosks like other countries
Network Frequencies (Indicative)
| Network | Technology | Frequency Bands |
|---|---|---|
| Koryolink | 3G (UMTS) | 2100 MHz |
| Byol (별) Star | 3G | 2100 MHz |
| Kang Song NET 467/06 | 3G (Data) | 2100 MHz |
⚠ LTE/4G is not publicly available
Coverage & Speed
| Network | Coverage Area | Data Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koryolink | Major cities | Up to 384 kbps | Best foreigner access |
| Byol (별) Star | Nationwide (domestic) | Slow | No global internet |
| Kang Song NET 467/06 | Pyongyang only | Limited | Data-focused |
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | Koryolink | Byol (별) Star | Kang Song NET |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid SIM | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Internet | Limited global | Domestic only | Limited |
| Tourists | Yes | No | Restricted |
| Data-Only | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data | Very limited | No | No |
Biometric User Registration
- Passport scan required
- Photo verification
- SIM linked to user identity
- Government approval mandatory
Device Registration
- IMEI registration required
- Phones inspected at entry
- Some smartphones may be restricted or confiscated
SIM Card Prices (Indicative)
| SIM Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Koryolink Tourist SIM | USD 50–75 |
| Data Add-On | USD 10–50 |
| Voice Credit | Limited availability |
⚠ Prices vary by permission level and tour operator
Top-Up Methods
- Cash only (EUR/USD)
- Authorized telecom office
- Tour guide assistance
❌ No online top-ups
❌ No international recharge platforms
Koryolink (고려링크)
Koryolink is the primary mobile operator for foreigners in North Korea.
Prepaid Data Add-Ons Koryolink
| Data | Validity | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 50 MB | 30 days | ~10 |
| 200 MB | 30 days | ~30 |
| 500 MB | 30 days | ~50 |
Koryolink Unlimited Data (Rare)
| Plan | Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Limited “Unlimited” | Throttled | Special permission only |
Koryolink Feature Packages
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Voice calls | Yes |
| SMS | Yes |
| MMS | No |
| Hotspot | No |
Social Media Access (Koryolink)
| Platform | Access |
|---|---|
| ❌ | |
| ❌ | |
| ❌ | |
| Email (limited) | ⚠ |
Koryolink Data-Only SIM
- Available for journalists & diplomats
- No voice or SMS
- Extremely restricted access
Byol (별) Star
Byol (Star) is for local citizens only.
Prepaid Data Add-Ons
| Data | Validity | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Local intranet | Monthly | Domestic only |
Byol Unlimited Data
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| Unlimited | ❌ |
| Global Internet | ❌ |
Social Media Access BYOL
| Platform | Access |
|---|---|
| Domestic services | ✔ |
| Global platforms | ❌ |
Byol Data-Only
- Intranet access only
- No international routing
Kang Song NET 467/06
Primarily used for data connectivity in Pyongyang.
Kang Song NET Prepaid Add-Ons
| Data | Validity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small data bundles | Short-term | Controlled |
Kang Song NET Social Media
| Platform | Access |
|---|---|
| International sites | ❌ |
| Government portals | ✔ |
How to Check the Remaining Balance
- Dial USSD codes (network-specific)
- Visit the telecom office
- Ask an authorized guide
How to Check SIM Number
- SIM card holder
- Telecom office inquiry
- Device settings (if not blocked)
Tourist SIM Cards
✔ Available
✔ Passport required
❌ No freedom of use
❌ No VPN allowed
Digital eSIM Providers
❌ No eSIM support in North Korea
International eSIMs do not work due to network isolation.
Other Connectivity Options
- Hotel wired internet (rare)
- Embassy communications
- Satellite phones (permit required)
Activation Process
- Submit passport
- Phone inspection
- SIM registration
- Manual activation
Activation can take hours to days.
Help Line Numbers
- Koryolink Support: Available locally only
- Assistance is usually provided via a tour guide
Official Websites
- Koryolink: http://www.koryolink.com.kp
- DPRK Posts & Telecom: State-controlled portals (limited access)
Apps
❌ No public mobile apps
❌ No Google Play / App Store access
Conclusion
Prepaid SIM cards in North Korea are among the most restricted in the world. While Koryolink provides limited connectivity for foreigners, Byol (Star) and Kang Song NET mainly serve domestic or controlled users. There is no true mobile internet freedom, no eSIM support, and no roaming.
If you are traveling to the DPRK, expect minimal connectivity, high prices, and strict monitoring. Always coordinate SIM access through your official tour provider.