How to Watch Korean Netflix with a VPN (2024 Guide)

How to Watch Korean Netflix with a VPN (2024 Guide)

Netflix almost single-handedly revolutionized the streaming industry. The streaming era has seen viewers access various video content faster and more seamlessly than was thought possible. Netflix is present in over 190 countries, including Korea. Korean users get to view over 4000 titles on the platform, including fan favorites such as The Lion King, Love Alarm, Part Time Idol, Something in the Rain, etc. In fact, K-drama is such a big trend that even non-Koreans are becoming huge fans.

Netflix and other streaming platforms offer content based on locations. Thus, Korean Netflix is unavailable to users in the United States and vice versa. This poses a significant challenge for Koreans who have to travel outside the country for a while. It also affects non-nationals who may want to access Korean Netflix from their respective locations.

Regardless of this challenge, we bring you good news; you can bypass the blocks on Korean Netflix. The specifics regarding the hows will be discussed subsequently.

How to Watch Netflix Korea with a VPN

Before we dive into this, you may be wondering how the platform even identifies users outside Korea. It does this through users’ IP addresses. Each IP address offered by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) comes with a unique location identifier. Thus, platforms such as Netflix need only run a check on users’ IP addresses to confirm if they are within the covered zones. This way, it locks in on and kicks off offending IP addresses.

A solution you can explore is using a VPN. A VPN provider usually has servers in various locations. Connecting to any of the servers makes it appear as though you are physically present in that region. This gives you room to change your location at will, appearing to be in any location you want. Thus, while outside Korea, you can connect to a VPN’s Korean server to access Netflix Korea.

What are the steps to using a VPN to access Korean Netflix?

  • Download and install a VPN
  • Pay for a subscription plan
  • Set up the VPN app and toggle your settings
  • Choose a VPN server
  • Start streaming!

Top VPNs for Accessing Netflix Korea

After a thorough assessment, here are our top VPNs for accessing Korean Netflix:

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN devices

Features

  • Number of servers: More than 3,000
  • Speeds: Unlimited
  • Server locations: 160 in 105 countries
  • Maximum devices supported: 5
  • 24 live chat: Yes
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: Yes

Pros/Cons

  • Fastest VPN out there
  • Strict no logs policy
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Few discounts
Visit ExpressVPN

Topping our list is ExpressVPN. VPN enthusiasts will find this to be no surprise. ExpressVPN has amazing features that have seen it top best VPN lists, regardless of whatever metrics used. For accessing Korean Netflix, we are assured that ExpressVPN will deliver what you need and more.

ExpressVPN has 3000+ servers in 59 countries. These servers are primed for speed and are excellent for streaming high-quality content. They are also strong enough to get around the geo-restrictions on any platform, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and the likes. ExpressVPN’s features are even strong enough to bypass restrictions in China. Thus, you can rest assured that it will do the same for Korea too.

Security is also locked in with this provider. It uses the AES 256-bit encryption model on all its servers. In addition, its TrustedServer technology makes sure no data is retained on the VPN servers, ensuring stronger security. Furthermore, it uses a kill switch and runs its own private DNS on its servers.

This provider has compatible apps for the major device types. It also makes provisions for routers and browser extensions. You can connect at least 5 devices to one account and also take advantage of the 30-day money-back window the provider makes available.

  • Pros: Fastest VPN out there; Strict no logs policy; 256-bit AES encryption;
  • Lowest price: $6.67

NordVPN

NordVPN devices

Features

  • Cryptocurrency accepted? Yes
  • Simultaneous connections: 6
  • Dedicated IP-addresses? Yes
  • Servers: 5342 in 58 countries

Pros/Cons

  • Lots of pricing options
  • Netflix support kept up to date
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Slow app
Visit NordVPN

NordVPN is no stranger to unblocking geo-restricted streaming sites. Users can come under its cover to stream or download content without being detected. Specifically for Netflix Korea, NordVPN makes more than 10 of its servers available for this purpose. You cannot go wrong with NordVPN.

Generally, this provider has 5400+ global servers. Thus, apart from Korea, you can connect to other regions to access their libraries. NordVPN makes sure its servers are fast, and its connection is buffer-free and without throttling.

NordVPN also fares well when it comes to security. It has all the standard features of a VPN provider and then several others. For instance, you can take advantage of its dedicated IP option to get an IP address for your sole use. It also offers a double VPN option that routes users’ traffic through multiple servers to strengthen security.

Just like every top-tier provider, NordVPN’s pricing options are a little on the high side. However, the quality of its features more than makeup for this. Furthermore, it offers a 30-day money-back window within which users can utilize the service and request a refund. Thus, if you are taking a short trip outside Korea, this works perfectly for you.

  • Pros: Lots of pricing options; Netflix support kept up to date; 256-bit AES encryption;
  • Lowest price: $3.71

Surfshark

Surfshark devices

Features

  • Free trial? Yes
  • Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
  • Ad blocking? Yes
  • Servers: 1000+ in 61 countries

Pros/Cons

  • No footprints
  • Allows torrenting
  • 256-bit AES encryption
  • Not the fastest
Try Surfshark

Surfshark is one of the newest VPN providers in the market. However, you will be wrong to think that this is a disadvantage. This provider has managed to stay on top of its game, earning it a spot among the greats. Presently, the service has 3200 servers in 59 countries. Some of these servers are in Korea. We have no qualms recommending this VPN for use in accessing Korean Netflix.

Surfshark is similar to ExpressVPN in several ways. For instance, both providers can get around the Great Firewall of China. They have stellar security features, including using the AES 256-bit encryption model for all of its servers. More so, they are both based in the British Virgin Islands. This location has relaxed data privacy laws. It is not also part of any of the 5/7/12 eye alliances. Hence, the Korean authorities cannot even compel the provider to give up the details of users. Thus, you can expect this provider to be able to unblock Korean Netflix, your location notwithstanding.

This provider is great for newbies. Its download, setup, and installation processes are quite easy. Furthermore, its pricing is also favorable. Surfshark has distinguished itself as one of the very few providers that have an unlimited simultaneous connection option. Hence, with one account, you can connect as many devices as possible. You also get a generous 30-day money-back window with your initial purchase. Any time before this elapses, you can request and receive a refund of your subscription fees, no questions asked.

  • Pros: No footprints; Allows torrenting; 256-bit AES encryption;
  • Lowest Price: $2.49

CyberGhost

CyberGhost devices

Features

  • Connected devices at once: 7
  • Automatic kill switch? Yes
  • One click connect: Yes
  • Servers: 5900 worldwide

Pros/Cons

  • No logs policy
  • 24/7 live chat
  • Apps for mobile devices and routers
  • No free option
Try CyberGhost

With over 6500 servers in 91+ countries, CyberGhost has one of the highest server counts in the industry. Little wonder it regards itself as the best Netflix VPN in the market. With its broad server range, it offers users the ability to switch locations, and hence their Netflix libraries. This provider is one of the solid recommendations for accessing Korean Netflix.

This provider has 24 servers in Korea. From your location anywhere on the globe, you can connect to any of these servers and establish a virtual presence in Korea.

In addition, CyberGhost has a few other features that have made it a darling of VPN users. These include its AES 256-bit encryption system, automatic kill switch, and DNS and IP leak prevention mechanisms. This provider also supports the OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols.

CyberGhost’s plans are pocket-friendly. You can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously to one account. If you run into any challenges or have any questions, CyberGhost has guides that address the frequently asked questions about its installation process. Furthermore, you can either reach out to its 24/7 customer care personnel via live chat or email to have your issues resolved.

  • Pros: No logs policy; 24/7 live chat; Apps for mobile devices and routers;
  • Lowest price: €2

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN devices

Features

  • P2P support? Yes
  • 30-day money-back guarantee? Yes
  • Country of origin? Switzerland
  • Servers: 600+ in over 40 countries
  • Simultaneous devices: 5

Pros/Cons

  • Professional support
  • Modern interface and apps
  • AES-256 encryption
  • Lesser known provider
Try ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN checks two very important factors on our list. First, it has no less than 10 servers in Korea. Secondly, it has excellent unblocking abilities. This provider has guides on how to unblock streaming platforms such as Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, and Amazon Prime. Considering these two factors, you can rely on it to unblock Korean Netflix regardless of your location.

This provider is famed for its security features. It uses the standard AES 256-bit encryption model to secure its servers. It also supports great security protocols such as OpenVPN. This provider routes your network through its secure core servers, doubling your encryption and keeping you safe. Furthermore, with its Perfect Forward Secrecy feature, even previous VPN sessions are protected.

ProtonVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy. Thus, it does not retain any aspect of the data you spend on its platform. In addition, it is located in Switzerland, which is generally considered a global privacy hub. You can rest assured that your identity or data will not be compromised on the network.

You can download and install ProtonVPN apps on 10 devices at the same time. Thus, you can stream Korean Netflix movies on one while just browsing on another. You get unlimited bandwidth and a throttle-free experience the entire time you are on the network. Remarkably, ProtonVPN has a totally free version you can explore.

  • Pros: Professional support; Modern interface and apps; AES-256 encryption;
  • Lowest price: €4

HideMyAss

HideMyAss devices

Features

  • Speeds: 20 Gbps
  • Money-back guarantee: Yes
  • Activity logs? No
  • Locations: 190+ countries

Pros/Cons

  • Best server database on the market
  • No-logs and kill switch policy
  • Multiple device protection
  • Expensive short term plan
Visit HideMyAss

HMA (HideMyAss) is another reliable recommendation from our end for accessing Korean Netflix. 10 out of its 1100 servers are stationed in Seoul. Furthermore, it has a solid unblocking ability record, getting around restrictions on platforms ranging from Hulu to Amazon Prime, the BBC iPlayer, etc. HMA’s offers are ideal if you want great service on a budget.

HMA’s servers are great for streaming. They come with features that enhance speed. Thus, you will hardly experience any buffering on the platform. Furthermore, if you are looking to torrent files, apart from accessing Korean Netflix, you can do so with this provider. All of these come at no extra cost to you.

Your security gets optimum attention also on this service. HMA uses the AES 256-bit encryption model on its servers. It allows for split tunneling and has a functional kill switch.

HMA has compatible apps for a wide range of devices. Its installation process is straightforward, without any hassles. To pay for a plan, you can use a variety of payments across several platforms, including credit cards, etc. This provider offers a reliable 30-day money-back window. You can use the service and request a refund any time within this period, no questions asked.

  • Pros: Best server database on the market; No-logs and kill switch policy; Multiple device protection;
  • Lowest price $2.99

PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN devices

Features

  • Killswitch Yes
  • iOS App Yes
  • Data logging No

Pros/Cons

  • Servers in 63 countries
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • 2048-bit Encryption With AES-256
  • App can seem complicated
Visit PrivateVPN

This provider has a modest server count of 200+ servers in 63 countries. A few of these are stationed in South Korea. You can connect to them to unblock Korean Netflix wherever you are. We recommend this provider if you are looking for a relatively cheap but reliable option.

What factors make PrivateVPN an excellent choice for accessing Korean Netflix? First, it has a range of remarkable security and privacy features. Leading the pack is the AES 256-bit encryption model. This provider is also speedy, delivering content without delays. Finally, you can count on being truly private and anonymous on this network.

PrivateVPN is compatible with Linux, Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices. It is quite easy to download, install and set up. Its plans and pricing are friendly, and it tops this off with a 30-day money-back window. However, you will have to request your refund before the 30 days elapse. Furthermore, you will need to provide a reason for seeking a refund. Generally, though, PrivateVPN is a great option for accessing Korean Netflix.

  • Pros: Servers in 63 countries; 30-day money-back guarantee; 2048-bit Encryption With AES-256;
  • Lowest price: €2.04

Tips for Choosing a VPN for Netflix Korea

If you want to access Korean Netflix with a VPN, here are a few things to consider:

1. Number and Location of Servers:

Your provider of choice should have servers in Korea. This is the only way you can unblock Netflix Korea from your remote location. Furthermore, as a general rule, the more servers a VPN provider has, the greater the options you can obtain. Thus, check out both the server count and server spread of each provider before subscribing for any.

2. Speed:

Streaming is one activity that is speed-dependent. You will need to make sure your provider of choice has fast-enough servers.

3. Security & Privacy Features:

While streaming is not a dangerous activity, threats lurk on the internet anyway. Thus, check out the security features of the VPN you are considering. Must-haves include the AES 256-bit encryption model, a kill switch, split tunneling features, etc.

4. Pricing:

Eventually, pricing might be the deciding factor of whether you go with a provider or not. For each service, check out if they have a money-back window and how long it is for. This could come in handy if you are merely traveling out of Korea for a short while.

Conclusion

You can keep up with your favorite Korean movies and show even outside of the region. A VPN makes this possible. In this review, we’ve shown you several VPN providers to consider. When you faithfully adhere to the steps here, you will be waving geo-restrictions goodbye in no time.