Worried about your smartphone battery dying during your trip to Korea? Portable chargers must be carried in your cabin baggage, and regulations have been significantly tightened, including a complete ban on in-flight use and charging starting in 2026.
Airplane Portable Charger Regulations (As of 2026)
Portable chargers (lithium-ion batteries) cannot be placed in checked baggage and must be carried in your cabin baggage.
Recently Tightened Regulations
- January 2026~: Complete ban on in-flight use and charging
- March 2025~: Overhead bin storage prohibited (must be stored under the seat or in your pocket)
- September 2025~: Terminals must be covered with insulating tape or placed in individual plastic bags
Allowed Capacity and Quantity
- Allowed: 20,000mAh or less (under 100Wh)
- Conditional: 20,000–32,000mAh (100–160Wh) — requires prior airline approval, maximum 2 units
- Not allowed: Over 32,000mAh (over 160Wh)
How to Get a Portable Charger in Korea
1. Buy at a Convenience Store
You can purchase portable chargers at Korean convenience stores such as CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven for approximately 15,000–25,000 KRW.
2. Shared Portable Charger Services
Korea has mobile battery rental services. You can borrow one from stations installed at subway stations, convenience stores, and cafes, then return it at any station.
3. Charge at a Cafe
Most cafes in Seoul have power outlets and USB charging ports, so you can charge your phone while enjoying a drink.
Tips to Save Battery Without a Portable Charger
- Download offline maps in advance for your map app
- Lower screen brightness and use power-saving mode
- Close unnecessary background apps
- When using your NAMANE card, keep only NFC turned on
Check out the apps you'll need for your Korea trip in our Essential Apps Guide for Traveling in Korea. For instructions on using your NAMANE card, see the NAMANE Getting Started Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Can I bring two 20,000mAh portable chargers?
Portable chargers under 100Wh can generally be brought without quantity limits, but policies may vary by airline, so checking in advance is recommended.
Q. What capacity are convenience store portable chargers?
Portable chargers sold at convenience stores are typically 5,000–10,000mAh. This is enough for a day of sightseeing, and prices range from 15,000–25,000 KRW.
Q. How much does it cost to rent a shared portable charger?
It costs approximately 500–1,000 KRW per hour, with a daily maximum of about 5,000 KRW. Most services accept payment through their app.
※ Airline regulations are subject to change at any time, so please be sure to check your airline's latest policies before departure.
