Unlock the true potential of Samsung-compatible phones for seamless travel connectivity with eSIM technology!
At ESIMKOREA.net, discover how eSIM simplifies international data access, saves you money, and keeps you online without boundaries. In this ultimate guide, we spotlight the best Samsung-compatible phones—from Galaxy S series, Z Fold/Flip foldables to budget-friendly A-series models that deliver dual SIM flexibility, lightning-fast eSIM activation, and reliable global roaming, making them perfect travel companions.
Key Information Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| First Supported Models | Galaxy S20 series (Global), Galaxy Z Fold4/Flip4 (Korea) |
| Latest Supported Models | Galaxy 25 series, Z Fold7/Flip7 |
| Number of Storable Profiles | Up to 5 eSIM profiles |
| Simultaneous Activation | 1 Physical SIM + 1 eSIM (Dual SIM) |
| Activation Fee | 2,750 KRW (Korea) |
| Start of Official Support | September 1, 2022 (Korean market) |
What is an eSIM?
Definition of eSIM (Embedded SIM)
An eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly into the smartphone’s internal motherboard. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards (Mini SIM, Micro SIM, Nano SIM), it does not require inserting a card. Instead, you can download and activate your carrier profile through software settings. Carrier profiles are activated remotely by scanning the QR code or by entering the activation code. Once installed, the profile is stored on the device and can be activated or deactivated as needed.
Difference from Physical SIM
A physical SIM card is a plastic card issued by a carrier that must be inserted directly into the SIM slot of a device. When switching carriers, you typically need to visit a store or receive a new card via delivery, and there is always the risk of loss or physical damage. On the contrary, an eSIM manages carrier information digitally. It allows for instant online activation and permits multiple carrier profiles to be stored on a single device. Thus making it a convenient choice for people traveling abroad, as you can install a local eSIM while keeping your original number active, enabling you to use local data at a lower cost.
Samsung smartphones that support eSIM
Galaxy S Series
| Series | eSIM Support Summary | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| S25 / S25+ / S25 Ultra / S25 Edge (2025) | Global: Supported (dual nano SIM + dual eSIM varies by region) Korea: Supported | Snapdragon 8 Elite, regional SIM differences |
| S24 / S24+ / S24 Ultra / S24 FE (2024) | Global: Supported Korea: Supported (1 nano + 1 eSIM) | Introduced MEP, stores up to 5 eSIM profiles |
| S23 / S23+ / S23 Ultra / S23 FE (2023) | Global: Supported Korea: First Samsung eSIM support in Korea | FE models include eSIM support |
| S22 / S22+ / S22 Ultra (2022) | Global: Varies by country Korea: ❌ Not supported | eSIM availability is only in a few markets with dual SIM features. |
| S21 5G / S21+ 5G / S21 Ultra 5G (2021) | Global: Limited support in select regions Korea: ❌ Not supported | The United States offers limited eSIM support. Korean versions all have physical SIM only |
| S20 / S20+ / S20 Ultra (2020) | Global: First Samsung series with eSIM (global models only) Korea: ❌ Not supported | Verify U.S. units (some carrier-locked models block eSIM) |
Galaxy S-series models (including S24 and S25 lines) sold specifically in China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan do not support eSIM functionality. These regional variants are designed exclusively with dual physical SIM slots to align with local carrier preferences and regulations, which prioritize traditional SIM cards over embedded eSIM technology. If you still need further clarification, Visit Samsung’s official website.
Galaxy Z Series (Fold/Flip)
| Series | eSIM Support Summary | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Z Fold 7 / Z Flip 7 / Z Flip 7 FE (2025) | Global: Supported (dual nano SIM + dual eSIM) Korea: Supported | Seamless activation via QR/app dual SIM capable |
| Z Fold 6 / Z Flip 6 (2024) | Global: Supported Korea: Supported (Physical SIM + 1 eSIM) | Features MEP (Multi eSIM Profile) |
| Z Fold 5 / Z Flip 5 (2023) | Global: Supported Korea: Supported | Stable with eSIM networks |
| Z Fold 4 / Z Flip 4 (2022) | Global: Supported Korea: Supported | Widely compatible with global eSIM networks |
| Z Fold 3 / Z Flip 3 (2021) | Global: Supported in select regions Korea: ❌ Not supported | Korean versions are physical SIM only |
| Z Fold 2 / Galaxy Fold (2020) | Global: Limited support in select regions Korea: ❌ Not supported | Early generation with eSIM Only available in certain regions |
Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series models sold in China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan lack eSIM support. These region-specific variants feature only dual physical SIM slots, tailored to local telecom standards that favor conventional SIM cards over eSIM integration.
Galaxy A Series
| Series | eSIM Support Summary By Regions | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| A56 / A55 | Global: Supported in Europe, North America, and Japan Korea: Supported | High-end A-series bringing eSIM to major markets at an affordable price |
| A45 5G | Global: Supported in select markets Korea: Supported in limited regions | Mid-range model with partial regional availability |
| A54 5G | Global: Supported in Europe, North America, Japan; Southeast Asia may vary Korea: Supported | Reliable eSIM option for travelers; region-dependent |
| A40 / A36 / A35 | Global: Supported across Europe & North America Korea: Supported | Availability varies by region |
| A17 | Global: Supported in Europe, the U.S., and international markets Korea: ❌ Not supported | Budget model; hybrid SIM in some regions; inconsistent support |
Important Note: The support of eSIM in the A-series varies significantly by region. In particular, models released in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan generally don’t support eSIM.
Galaxy Note Series
Note 20 / Note 20 Ultra
As the final Note series flagships, global versions support eSIM for easy travel connectivity (physical SIM + eSIM dual setup). Korean variants lack eSIM due to carrier firmware restrictions, similar to the S21 series. U.S. unlocked or T-Mobile versions provide reliable eSIM, but all require carrier unlock checks to avoid activation blocks abroad.
Galaxy Tab Series
| Model Series | eSIM Support | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tab S10 Ultra / S10+ (2024–2025) | ✅ 5G models only | Wi-Fi variants excluded; pairs with physical nano-SIM |
| Tab S9 / S9+ / S9 Ultra (2023) | ✅ 5G models only | Ideal for dual SIM (work/personal lines) on large displays |
| Tab S9 FE / S9 FE+ | ✅ 5G models only | Affordable Fan Edition; Wi-Fi models lack eSIM |
| Tab Active5 / Active5 Pro | ✅ 5G models only | Rugged for construction/logistics; dual SIM boosts efficiency |
Galaxy Book Series eSIM Support
Book 3
Some 5G/LTE-enabled models in the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 lineup support eSIM, allowing cellular connectivity without a physical SIM card. Wi-Fi-only models do not support eSIM functionality.
Book 2
Selected cellular versions of Galaxy Book 2 also support eSIM, allowing for internet access anywhere without relying on Wi-Fi.
Note: unlike smartphones, laptop eSIMs are limited to data-only plans and do not support voice calls.
How to Set Up eSIM on Samsung Devices
Settings → Mobile Network (or “Cellular”) → Add eSIM
To begin installing an eSIM, open the settings app on your smartphone. Samsung Galaxy devices use the One UI interface, so follow the following instruction path:
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM
Depending on your device model or One UI version, the menu path may differ slightly. You may also find the “Add eSIM” option under:
Settings → Mobile Network
or
Settings → Network & Internet
When you enter the “Add eSIM” screen, you will see two options:
- Scan QR code
- Enter activation code
Scanning the QR code method is recommended in most cases, as it is the simplest and quickest way to install an eSIM profile.
Scan QR Code or Manually Enter the SMDP+ Address / Activation Code
QR-Code activation Method
On purchasing your eSIM, you will receive an email with a QR code for activation. Follow the following instructions:
Select [Add eSIM] → [Scan QR Code]
The camera in your device will open automatically. Position the QR code within the camera frame, and it will be recognized automatically. A confirmation message will appear saying, “Would you like to add this eSIM?”
Tap [Add]
to begin downloading the profile.
Tip: If you’ve saved the QR code as an image, tap the gallery icon at the screen’s bottom to access it. The app will recognize and scan it directly, no extra steps needed
Manual Input Method
If you are unable to activate your eSIM profile by the QR code method, you can activate your eSIM profile manually.
Select [Add eSIM] → [Enter Activation Code]
Enter the information provided by your carrier:
- SM-DP+ Address (Subscription Manager Data Preparation Address): e.g., smdp.example.com
- Activation Code: e.g., $1$XXXXXXXXX
After entering all information correctly,
Tap [Add] to begin downloading the profile
A Wi-Fi or mobile data connection is required for this process, and it should be completed in a stable network environment.
Assigning an eSIM Line Name (Travel / Business, etc.)
After the profile download is complete, a screen will appear prompting you to assign a name to the eSIM line. This label is used in [SIM Manager] to distinguish between multiple eSIM profiles.
Recommended label examples:
- Travel: For international travel, eSIMs
- Business: For company-provided eSIMs
- Personal: For your personal carrier eSIM
- Japan, USA, Europe, etc.: For country-specific travel eSIMs
Setting a label makes it easier to identify which eSIM to activate later.
You can change the label at any time in [SIM Manager]
How to verify if your eSIM profile is installed successfully?
Once the installation is complete, you can verify if your new eSIM is successfully installed by going to:
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
The physical SIM and eSIM will appear as separate entries, each showing the phone number, carrier name, and network status. The newly added eSIM is activated by default. If you don’t plan to use it immediately, you can tap the eSIM entry and deactivate it. A deactivated eSIM does not consume power and can be reactivated at any time when needed.
Important note:
- Deleting an eSIM completely removes the profile from the device.
- For some carriers, once an eSIM is deleted, it cannot be reinstalled.
- If you only need to stop using it temporarily, choose deactivate, rather than “delete”.
How to turn on Data Roaming When Using eSIM Abroad
If you have installed a travel eSIM, you must enable data roaming once you arrive at your destination. Go to:
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Select the eSIM → Data Roaming → Turn ON
When data roaming is enabled, the eSIM will connect to the local carrier network, allowing you to use mobile data abroad. At the same time, make sure to turn OFF data roaming for your domestic SIM to avoid unnecessary roaming charges.
Preventing Automatic Data Switching:
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Mobile Data, then turn OFF the “Allow switching mobile data” option.
This prevents the phone from automatically switching to another SIM when the primary SIM signal is weak, an important setting to avoid unexpected roaming charges.
How to Check eSIM Compatibility on Samsung Devices
Check if your Galaxy Device Supports eSIM
How to verify the EID number
The most reliable way to verify if your device is eSIM compatible is by checking the EID (Embedded Identity Document) number. The EID number is a unique identifier assigned to the eSIM chip and exists only on devices equipped with eSIM hardware.
Check via dial pad
Open the Phone app and enter *#06# on the dial pad. The device information screen will appear automatically. If an EID number is displayed, your device supports eSIM.
Check through Settings
Go to Settings → About Phone → Status, where you can find the EID entry. If a 32-digit EID number is shown, the device supports eSIM.
If the EID number does not appear or the EID section is missing entirely, the device is not compatible with eSIM.
Check for Two IMEI Numbers (Dual SIM Support)
Devices that support dual SIM features have two IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers.
When you enter *#06# on the dial pad, the following will appear:
- IMEI (SIM Slot 1): IMEI for the physical SIM
- IMEI (SIM Slot 2) or IMEI (eSIM): IMEI assigned to the eSIM
If two IMEI numbers appear on the screen, then the device is said to support both a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously.
Check for the “Add eSIM” Option in Settings
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager.
If you see a button labeled [Add eSIM] or [Add Mobile Plan], your device supports eSIM.
When you tap this menu, and the QR code scanning screen appears, it means the eSIM feature is functioning properly. If the eSIM option is missing or an error message appears when you select it, the device may not support eSIM or could be carrier-locked, preventing activation.
Check Whether Carrier Lock Is Removed
How to check lock status
A carrier-locked device can only be used with a specific mobile carrier. In this case, you cannot install an eSIM from another carrier.
Automatic network selection test: Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Network Operators → Turn off “Select Automatically.”
If multiple carrier networks appear in the list, the device is unlocked.
If only your current carrier appears, or if selecting another carrier results in a connection error, the device is likely carrier-locked.
Important note: If the device is carrier-locked, contact the carrier to request an unlock before setting up an eSIM.
Check Your One UI Version (5.1 or Higher Recommended)
To use eSIM reliably, it is recommended to have One UI 5.1 or higher. In particular, the eSIM transfer/migration feature was first introduced in One UI 5.1, and some carriers may require even newer versions.
How to check your software version:
Go to Settings → About Phone → Software Information, then check the One UI version.
If your One UI version is outdated, go to:
Settings → Software Update → Download and Install
and update to the latest version.
Keeping your software fully updated is essential before installing an eSIM.
Guide to Resolving Samsung eSIM Issues
eSIM Hanging at “Activating”
Sometimes an eSIM may remain in the “Activating” state for more than 3 minutes after installation. This usually happens due to network instability or delays on the carrier’s server.
How to fix it
- Reconnect to Wi-Fi: Turn Wi-Fi off and back on, or switch to a more stable network
- Use mobile data instead: if the Wi-Fi connection is unstable, try to use your existing mobile data and retry the activation process.
- Restart your device: Fully reboot the phone and recheck the eSIM status in SIM manager.
- Contact the eSIM provider: If activation still doesn’t complete after 24 hours, reach out to your carrier or eSIM service provider.
Important note: Some travel eSIMs are designed to activate only when you arrive in the destination country. Once connected to the local network at your overseas destination, the eSIM will activate automatically.
No Network Connection After Activation
In some cases, even if the eSIM activates successfully, it fails to connect to the mobile network.
How to fix it:
- Turn on data roaming: Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Select the eSIM → Enable Data Roaming.
- Check your Network mode: Navigate to Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Network Mode and select Auto, or 5G/LTE/3G depending on the plan.
- Select the network manually: Go to Network Operators → Manual Search, view the available carriers, and choose the operator recommended by your eSIM provider.
- Reset Airplane Mode: Turn on Airplane Mode, wait about a minute, then turn it off to refresh the network connection.
Error while Scanning the QR Code
If your device fails to read the QR code, try the following solutions:
How to fix it:
- Check Camera permissions: Go to Settings → Apps → SIM Manager → Permissions and make sure the camera permission is enabled.
- Improve lighting: Scan the QR code in a well-lit environment. Low light can reduce the scanning accuracy.
- Enhance QR code clarity: Enlarge the QR code from your email, or display it on another screen with higher brightness for easier scanning.
- Import from Gallery: If you saved the QR code as an image, tap the Gallery icon at the bottom of the scan screen to detect the QR code directly from the image.
- Use manual input: If scanning still fails, select Enter Activation Code and manually enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by your carrier.
Cannot Reinstall eSIM Post-Deletion
Most of the eSIM providers do not allow a deleted eSIM profile to be reinstalled, due to security policies that permit each profile to be downloaded only once.
How to fix it:
- Contact the provider before deleting: If your eSIM is not working properly, do not delete it immediately. Reach out to your eSIM provider first for verification or reactivation support.
- Use deactivation instead of deletion: If you only need to temporarily stop using the eSIM, disable the line rather than delete it. A disabled eSIM can be reactivated at any time without issues.
- Purchase a new eSIM if needed: If the profile cannot be reinstalled once removed, you will need to purchase a new eSIM.
Important: Deleting the eSIM does not cancel your mobile plan. To stop charges, you must contact the carrier or cancel the plan through their website.
Reset Network Settings
If your issue remains unresolved even after doing all the previous steps, try resetting the network settings on your device.
How to reset:
- Go to Settings → General Management → Reset → Reset Network Settings.
- Tap Reset on the confirmation screen.
- Your phone will restart, and all network settings will return to their factory defaults.
After rebooting, try reinstalling and activating the eSIM again.
Important: This will reset all network-related settings, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile network configurations. Saved Wi-Fi passwords will be erased, so you’ll need to reconnect afterward.
Choose ESIMKOREA.net for Worry-Free Korea Travel
With ESIMKOREA.net, Samsung users unlock instant, reliable connectivity across Korea—whether you’re exploring Seoul’s vibrant streets, hiking Jeju’s trails, or navigating Incheon’s airports. Our eSIMs activate seamlessly on Galaxy devices (post-checks for One UI, carrier unlock, and model support), delivering high-speed 5G data without the hassles of physical SIM swaps or activation delays.
Trust our proven profiles, tailored for travelers like you, to stay connected for navigation, translations, and sharing memories effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does my device support eSIM?
Check the Samsung official support page to confirm whether the device you plan to purchase is listed as an eSIM-compatible model.
Are there regional restrictions?
This is essential for the Samsung A series. Make sure the device is a Korean, European, or North American version. Models released in China or Hong Kong do not support eSIM.
Is the device carrier-locked?
Phones purchased through carriers, especially on installment plans, may remain carrier-locked during the contract period. For full eSIM compatibility and flexibility, buying a factory-unlocked model is recommended.
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