Once you've found an apartment in Japan, you might feel like taking a breather. However, on move-in day, you might be flustered if your internet isn't working.
You need internet to check school notices, search maps, and contact your family. Once your apartment contract is signed, make sure to check if your internet will also be ready on move-in day.
Here are five things international students and working holiday makers should check before moving into their apartment.
1. Differentiate Between ‘Internet-Ready’ and ‘Free Internet’
Just because an apartment listing mentions internet doesn't mean it's free to use right after you move in.
If it says 'Internet-Ready' (인터넷 대응), you need to check which service provider line can be applied for and whether a separate contract is required. Even for 'Free Internet' (무료 인터넷), it's good to know how to use it and what coverage is provided.
Ask your real estate agency or management company the following:
- Is internet included in the rent or management fee?
- Do I need to apply separately with a telecom provider?
- Can I use it from my move-in day?
- Do I need to provide my own Wi-Fi router?
Rather than judging based solely on promotional phrases, be sure to verify how it actually works in practice.
2. Make Sure Your Internet Activation Date Matches Your Move-In Date
Your move-in date and your internet start date may be different.
If you apply for a separate line, check whether construction work is required, technician visit schedules, and building approval conditions. If you assume you can use it immediately after applying, you might end up spending days without internet after moving in.
If you have online classes or remote work scheduled from move-in day, it's a good idea to prepare a temporary connectivity method until activation.
3. Consider Whether You Will Use It at Home or On the Go
When choosing an internet plan, consider your lifestyle alongside the rates.
If you spend a lot of time studying on a laptop at home, Home Wi-Fi is recommended; if you want to connect multiple devices while commuting, working part-time, or going out, Pocket Wi-Fi can be a great option.
Home Wi-Fi plugs into a power outlet and is used in a fixed location, while Pocket Wi-Fi is rechargeable and portable.
If internet is already available at your school or accommodation, check what might be missing first. This can prevent unnecessary duplicate subscriptions.
4. Check for Costs Beyond the Monthly Fee
Even if the monthly rate looks cheap, additional fees may apply during initial sign-up or cancellation.
Please check the following details before applying:
- Initial setup fees and shipping costs
- Whether the device is purchased or rented
- Minimum contract period and early termination fees
- Auto-renewal terms and cancellation notice timing
- Prepayment refund conditions and device return methods
In particular, 'no contract' and 'full refund anytime' do not mean the same thing. If it's a prepaid plan, check whether unused periods are refundable.
5. Check the Connection Environment in Your Room and Support Channels
Home Wi-Fi and Pocket Wi-Fi that rely on mobile networks can vary in signal strength not only by region but also depending on building structure and device location.
Check if service is available at your address and what the speed restriction conditions are. Even 'unlimited' plans may experience speed throttling depending on network conditions or Fair Usage Policies (FUP).
It is also convenient to know where to inquire if your connection drops. If you are uncomfortable consulting in Japanese, check whether customer support is available in Korean.
Looking for Internet Without Installation Work? Try KEICALL
If you are looking for a way to use internet without line installation work, check out KEICALL Home Wi-Fi and Pocket Wi-Fi.
Find plans tailored to your primary location and stay duration, and feel free to consult with us in Korean if you have any questions.
If you are applying for Home Wi-Fi to use at home, please select the 'Fixed Home' model on the product page.
👉 Check & Apply for Wi-Fi Plans
https://www.keicall.com/ko/plans/unlimited-wifi
👉 KakaoTalk Korean Customer Support
https://pf.kakao.com/_xoxdKeC/chat
To comfortably start your first day in your new home, make sure to check internet terms before moving in.
※ Internet provision methods and terms of service vary by building. Please check with your property management company and service provider before signing.