📱 Identity Verification (Self-Auth) Guide

"Identity Verification" (본인인증) is the single biggest blocker for foreigners trying to use Korean online services. Whether it's shopping, banking, or signing up for websites, you will face this screen.

Why is it so hard?

Korea requires Real-Name Verification for almost all online activities. This system checks if:

1. Your Name
2. Your Phone Number
3. Your Date of Birth

...all match EXACTLY what is registered with your telecom provider (SKT, KT, LGU+) and the government.

⚠️ The #1 Problem: Name Mismatch

For Koreans, this is easy. For foreigners, it's a nightmare because of Spelling and Formatting.

If your ARC (Alien Registration Card) says SMITH JOHN DOE, but you type John Doe Smith, it will fail.

Rules for Success

1. ALL CAPS: Always use uppercase.
2. Order Matters: Usually LAST NAME + FIRST NAME + MIDDLE NAME (exactly as on your ARC).
3. No Spaces (Usually): Often, the telecom companies register names without spaces.
   • Try: SMITH JOHNDOE
   • Try: SMITH JOHN DOE
4. Character Limit: Sometimes names are cut off if they are too long.

How to Check Your Registered Name

Don't guess. Check exactly how your name is registered with your carrier.

1. Download your Carrier's App: T World (SKT), My Kt (KT), or U+ Mobile (LGU+).
2. Log in and find "My Info".
3. Copy-paste the name exactly as it appears there.

Pro Tip: If you are using a prepaid SIM (some budget carriers), you might NOT be able to do identity verification. Postpaid plans (valid ARC required) are highly recommended.

The "PASS" App

Once you have verified your identity once, you can set up the PASS App. This allows you to verify by scanning a QR code or entering a PIN, instead of getting an SMS every time.

1. Download PASS (make sure it matches your carrier, e.g., "PASS by SKT").
2. Register using the SMS verification method (the hard way) one last time.
3. Set up a 6-digit PIN or Biometrics.
4. Next time, choose "PASS 인증" (PASS Verification) instead of "SMS 인증".

Troubleshooting

"Information does not match" (정보가 일치하지 않습니다)

• Did you switch FirstName/LastName?
• Did you include spaces? Try removing them.
• Is your phone plan under your friend's name? (Must be YOUR name).

"Service not available for this user"

• Are you on a specialized prepaid plan? Some "Travel SIMs" do not support verification.
• Is your ARC expired? If so, your phone carrier might have suspended verification services.

Checklist for Smooth Shopping

• Got an ARC?
• Phone plan is under your name (not an employer/friend)?
• You know your exact registered name format?
• Installed the PASS app?

Master this, and 99% of Korean internet barriers disappear!