Why Everyone in Korea is Still Obsessed with the iPhone 16 in 2026
It is January 2026, and the iPhone 16 remains the most talked-about device in South Korea. While the local release was met with fanfare, savvy shoppers are looking across the ocean to the United States. Why? It isn't just about being first; it’s about getting the best version of the hardware. The US model of the iPhone 16 often features different 5G band support and, most importantly for many users in Seoul, the ability to take photos without the mandatory shutter sound found on local Korean handsets.
However, the idea of navigating US e-commerce sites, dealing with international credit card declines, and worrying about trans-Pacific logistics sounds like a lot of work. If you are looking for the 'lazy' way to get your hands on this tech, you have come to the right place. You don't need a friend in New York or a plane ticket to California—you just need a reliable package forwarder.
The Shortcut: Buying Directly from US Stores
Buying from the US Apple Store or major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon US can save you a significant amount of money, even when accounting for shipping. In 2026, the price gap remains a major incentive. But most US retailers don't ship high-end electronics directly to international addresses, or if they do, the costs are astronomical.
The easiest hack is to use comGateway. They provide you with a US tax-free shipping address (usually in Oregon), which means you don't pay US sales tax on your iPhone 16 purchase. This alone can save you around 7% to 10% of the retail price right off the bat.
How the Process Works (Without the Stress)
If you have never used a forwarding service before, don't worry. It is designed for maximum convenience. Here is a how it works breakdown for the busy shopper:
- Step 1: Sign up for a free US address.
- Step 2: Shop at Apple.com or Amazon.com and use your new US address at checkout.
- Step 3: Your iPhone 16 arrives at the warehouse, and you get a notification.
- Step 4: You click "Ship," and it arrives at your doorstep in South Korea.
Too Busy to Even Shop? Try the BuyForMe Service
Sometimes, US online stores can be picky about accepting international credit cards or billing addresses. If you find your transaction being cancelled or if you simply can't be bothered to fill out the forms yourself, there is an even lazier shortcut. You can use the BuyForMe service. You simply tell the experts what you want to buy, and they handle the entire purchasing process for you. It is the ultimate hands-off approach to international shopping.
Shipping to South Korea: Timing and Costs
When shipping high-value items like the iPhone 16 to Korea, speed and safety are priorities. Most shipments via express courier take about 3 to 5 business days from the US warehouse to your home in Seoul, Busan, or anywhere else in the country. To avoid any surprises, you should use a shipping calculator to get a clear picture of the costs before you commit.
Understanding Import Duties and Taxes in Korea
This is the part that confuses most people, but it is actually quite straightforward. When you import an iPhone 16 from the US to South Korea, you are subject to customs regulations. Because of the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), many items have favorable rates, but electronics generally incur a 10% VAT (Value Added Tax) if the value exceeds $200. Check our guide on import duties to see how these fees are calculated and how to pay them easily through your courier.
| Item | US Price (Estimated) | Korea Price (Estimated) | Benefit of US Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | $799 | ₩1,250,000+ | No Shutter Sound, Tax-Free US State Savings |
| iPhone 16 Pro | $999 | ₩1,550,000+ | Early access to US-only AI features |
Maximize Your Savings with Prime Membership
If you plan on buying more than just a phone—perhaps some MagSafe accessories, an Apple Watch Series 11, or some US-exclusive apparel—consider the Prime membership benefits. Members often get discounted shipping rates and lower consolidation fees, which is perfect if you are shipping multiple items from different stores in one go.
Summary for the Busy Shopper
Getting the iPhone 16 in 2026 doesn't have to be a logistical nightmare. By using a US address, you bypass local stock shortages, avoid the mandatory camera sound, and often save money on the total retail price. Just remember to factor in the 10% VAT when the item clears Korean customs.
You might also like our recent post on how to consolidate multiple US packages to save up to 80% on international shipping costs!
