The Best VPNs for South Korea 2024

Internet censorship and surveillance are heavily prevalent in South Korea. Therefore, choosing the best virtual private network (VPN) is crucial to bypass internet censorship and maintain your online freedom and privacy.

Among the many options available, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN stand out for their features and performance. ExpressVPN has super fast servers that are optimized for streaming. NordVPN offers an expansive server network, including servers in South Korea, while Surfshark is the best budget-friendly option.

These VPNs are great choices for bypassing geo-restrictions and safeguarding your anonymity. They’re also essential for navigating the pervasive internet censorship in South Korea. 

The best VPNs for South Korea

The South Korean government has a long history of suppressing online content deemed harmful or threatening to national security.^[1] This includes strict regulation of internet usage, such as blocking access to certain websites and monitoring online activities.

We’ve selected the following VPNs for South Korea due to their advanced security features, strict no-logs policies, and easy-to-use apps:

• NordVPN: Best server network
• Surfshark: Best for a budget
• ExpressVPN: Best for streaming

Top 3 VPN services for Korea compared

VPN
Starting price	Starts at $3.59/mo (billed every two years)	Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years)	Starts at $6.67/mo (billed annually)
Money-back guarantee	Yes — 30 days	Yes — 30 days	Yes — 30 days
Streaming support	Yes — Netflix (unofficially), Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more	Yes — Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more	Yes — Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more
Servers in South Korea
Learn more	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review	Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review	Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review

NordVPN: Best server network

Who it’s best for

NordVPN is the go-to choice for individuals who value extensive server networks and privacy options. Its network includes 6,800+ servers in 111 countries. 

NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, a country that is not part of the 5, 9, or 14 Eyes alliances. This, alongside its strict no-logs policy, makes Nord suitable for those seeking assured privacy and security.

What we liked

NordVPN impresses with its extensive server network. This wide range of VPN servers can help bypass geo-restrictions to access content from anywhere in the world and circumvent censorship.

The VPN’s privacy features are also particularly noteworthy. NordVPN has had its no-logs policy audited independently by Deloitte at the end of 2023. It also offers AES-256-GCM encryption and strong protocols like OpenVPN and NordLynx, based on WireGuard. This is important for users in South Korea, where cybercrime rates are high and the government has a history of hacking into citizens' personal information.

Our speed tests showed that NordVPN provided consistent and fast connections even in distant regions like Japan and Australia. The VPN also performed well in unblocking streaming libraries and services.

NordVPN has a user-friendly and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to navigate and connect to servers. Additional features like specialty servers, dark web monitoring, and an ad and tracker blocker further enhance the experience.

What we didn’t like

Despite its many strengths, NordVPN has some limitations. The lack of streaming-optimized servers can be inconvenient, although the existing servers work well for streaming purposes.

Additionally, while the interface is clean and straightforward, some users might prefer a more detailed initial tutorial for ease of setup and use.

NordVPN specs

Price range	$2.99–$17.99/mo
Free version	No, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
Number of servers	6,800+ servers in 111 countries
Servers in South Korea	Yes
Number of connected devices	10
VPN protocol	OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, NordLynx
No-logs policy	No logs
Unblocks Netflix?	Yes
Torrenting support	Yes
Learn more	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review

Surfshark: Best for a budget

Who it’s best for

Surfshark is a fantastic option for budget-conscious users who don’t want to compromise on features and performance. It offers competitive pricing starting as low as $1.99/mo (billed every two years). This attracts students, individuals, and families looking to save money. 

The ability to use Surfshark on all your devices simultaneously is also particularly appealing for households that have numerous devices.

What we liked

Surfshark’s standout features are clearly its affordability and unlimited devices, which cater to both individuals and families. However, it also provides numerous features that could be particularly useful for South Korean users.

Surfshark boasts a network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries to ensure global coverage. It also has protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. This is coupled with an audited no-logs policy to ensure all your data and browsing remains private and secure. 

Our speed tests showed that Surfshark had adequate performance for most online activities. The VPN service successfully unblocked various regional Netflix libraries and other streaming services. This makes it a suitable choice for streaming enthusiasts in South Korea.

Surfshark also boasts numerous additional features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads and malware. It also has the feature Bypasser, which acts as a split tunneler to allow users to select applications to be or not be protected by the VPN. ​​This is particularly helpful for South Korean users who may need to access restricted websites while doing their regular web browsing.

In addition, the user interface is easy to navigate. This makes it straightforward for newcomers to download the software and connect to servers.

What we didn’t like

Surfshark has some limitations. The most notable is the significant drop in speed when connected to certain distant servers, especially in Australia.

Additionally, we've encountered issues accessing the Canadian Netflix library, despite multiple attempts and following suggestions from Surfshark support. While the VPN has a recommended server for the fastest location, our tests found that these recommendations didn’t always yield the best speeds. 

Also, the lack of a dedicated streaming server might be a downside for users specifically looking for optimized streaming performance.

Surfshark specs

Price range	$1.99–$17.95/mo
Free version	No, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
Number of servers	3,200+ servers in 100 countries
Servers in South Korea	Yes
Number of connected devices	Unlimited
VPN protocol	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
No-logs policy	No logs
Unblocks Netflix?	Yes
Torrenting support	Yes
Learn more	Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review

ExpressVPN: Best for streaming

Who it’s best for

ExpressVPN is a suitable choice for those seeking high-speed streaming and robust security. The VPN can bypass geo-restrictions with ease, all while maintaining fast speeds. This makes it perfect for those who want a seamless viewing experience, regardless of their location.

ExpressVPN offers strong encryption, which is especially appealing to users who are conscious about protecting their online privacy. While the price point may be slightly higher than others, we feel it’s worth it for its valuable balance of speed and security.

What we liked

ExpressVPN distinguishes itself through exceptional performance in key areas. Its high-speed connectivity is a major advantage, consistently maintaining rapid speeds ideal for streaming and browsing. This performance holds even when connected to far-away VPN servers, ensuring minimal slowdowns across global connections. 

Moreover, the ability to access geo-restricted content is crucial for users in South Korea who want to watch overseas streaming services or access websites blocked by the government.

Regarding security, ExpressVPN sets a high standard with AES-256 encryption and a range of protocols such as OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2.

ExpressVPN’s standout feature is its ability to unblock various Netflix libraries and other streaming services. Its headquarters are outside of the Eyes alliances and its no-logs policy has been audited by Cure53, which shows its commitment to user privacy. ExpressVPN’s user-friendly interface is clean and straightforward and makes it easy to set up, with its intuitive controls.

What we didn’t like

One significant downside is pricing, which is higher than many other VPN options on the market, including NordVPN and Surfshark. Our testing also revealed variability in initial server speed. While the overall speeds are commendable, the first server connection may not always be the fastest, so you’ll need to search for a more optimal server manually. 

Additionally, there were occasional delays in loading times when connecting to certain streaming services, although this issue wasn’t consistent.

ExpressVPN specs

Price range	$4.99–$12.95/mo
Free version	No, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
Number of servers	Unlisted in 105 countries
South Korean servers	Yes
Number of connected devices	8
VPN protocol	OpenVPN, Lightway, IKEv2
No-logs policy	No logs
Unblocks Netflix?	Yes
Torrenting support	Yes
Learn more	Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review

Honorable mentions

While ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are our top picks, there are others you may want to consider. The VPN providers listed below offer various features that might suit your specific needs or preferences. They didn't make it into our top three, but they are still commendable options in the VPN market.

• CyberGhost: CyberGhost has a reputation for its user-friendly interface and ease of use. It boasts a large server network and is particularly good for streaming and torrenting.

  Get CyberGhost | Read Our CyberGhost Review

• Private Internet Access (PIA): Private Internet Access is known for its commitment to privacy. It offers advanced security features and a strict no-logs policy, making it a great choice for those who are serious about maintaining anonymity online.

  Get PIA | Read Our PIA Review

• IPVanish: IPVanish stands out with its high-speed connections and strong encryption, making it a good option for users who prioritize speed and security. It also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, which is a plus for multi-device users.

  Get IPVanish | Read Our IPVanish Review

How we test VPNs

To determine the best VPNs for South Korea, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation focusing on key features crucial for a reliable and secure online experience. We tested each VPN's speed to ensure fast and uninterrupted internet access, especially for streaming and browsing. The strength of its security features was scrutinized, as privacy is important in a VPN service.

The server network's size was also considered, particularly the presence of servers in and around South Korea, to provide optimal connection speeds and access to local content. Additionally, we assessed the VPNs’ ability to unblock geo-restricted content and their policies on user logs, ensuring they uphold user privacy.

We also considered:

• Speed: We measured each VPN's impact on internet connection speed, which is crucial for streaming, gaming, and browsing without lag.
• Security features: We looked at encryption strength and protocols used, determining each VPN's effectiveness in protecting user data.
• Server network: We assessed the number and location of servers, which affects connection quality and access to geo-specific content.
• Geo-unblocking capabilities: We evaluated each VPN's ability to bypass regional restrictions, enabling access to a broader range of online content.
• No-logs policy: We examined each VPN's policy on data logging, ensuring user activities aren't tracked or stored.
• User interface: We considered how user-friendly and intuitive the VPN software is, impacting overall user experience.
• Customer support: We assessed customer service availability and quality, crucial for troubleshooting and assistance.
• Pricing and value: We compared the cost against the features and benefits offered, determining each VPN's overall value for money.

FAQs

Bottom line: The best VPNs for South Korea

ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark emerge as the three top VPNs for anyone looking for a VPN in South Korea. They each excel in different aspects, but all can bypass South Korea’s internet censorship and surveillance.

ExpressVPN offers excellent high-speed streaming capabilities and robust security, making it the ideal choice for users who seek both speed and privacy. NordVPN is praised for offering an extensive server network alongside its strong privacy protection. Therefore, this provider has found popularity with users who seek a large number of global connections. 

Finally, Surfshark offers a wonderful balance between affordability and features. With its competitive pricing and unlimited device connection, Surfshark is perfect for budget-conscious users and families and multi-user households.

Whether it's for bypassing geo-restrictions, enhancing online security, or simply enjoying a seamless internet experience, these VPNs cater to a wide array of needs.

3 best VPNs for Korea

	Starting price	Best for	Learn more
	Starts at $3.59/mo (billed every two years)	Best server network	Get NordVPN Read NordVPN Review
	Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years)	Best for a budget	Get Surfshark Read Surfshark Review
	Starts at $6.67/mo (billed annually)	Best for streaming	Get ExpressVPN Read ExpressVPN Review