Searching for how to watch HBO Max in South Korea? You can watch HBO Max Korea with a premium VPN, and ExpressVPN is the safest option to consider.
Considering the availability of the best movies and TV Shows, like House of Dragons, Sesame Street Mecha Builders, Pretty Little Lies, His Dark Material, etc. It’s not surprising that HBO Max is famous in Korea.
But is HBO Max in South Korea? No! The service is available only in the United States and certain European territories due to geo-restrictions. Therefore you must count on a top-notch VPN to watch the region-locked content of HBO Max outside the US from Korea.
So stop bothering yourself and follow our simple guide to know the best VPNs for watching HBO Max South Korea!
How to Watch HBO Max in South Korea [Quick Guide]
Though HBO Max South Korea has not yet been officially launched, you can quickly get it with VPN. What you’ll need to do to get HBO Max in Korea is as follows:
- Purchase an ExpressVPN subscription.
- Download and install VPN on the device of your choice.
- Connect to a server in the United States. The New York server is highly recommendable.
- Go to the HBO Max website, and create an account.
- Sign in using your credentials, and enjoy the streaming of HBOMax South Korea.
Note: HBO Max is a pay-per-view service that requires a membership. Review the HBO Max Korea pricing and choose the package that best suits you!
Can I Watch HBO Max in South Korea?
Yes, you watch HBO Max in South Korea with the help of a VPN. Though it is geo-restricted and available only in the United States and certain US territories.
Using ExpressVPN, which is the best VPN for streaming, you can easily circumvent the geo-restrictions and stream HBO Max South Korea.
Is HBO Max Set to Launch Services in Korea?
Yes! The HBO Max South Korea launch is expected later this year. The streaming service has not yet provided any details regarding the precise timeframe for when is HBO Max coming to Korea.
However, it has begun work on its first-ever HBO Max Korean movie about a K-pop boy band, which will be released in the first half of next year.
How to get an HBO Max subscription in South Korea?
If you’re looking for how to get HBO max for free hack, then quit since no such thing exists. As it is a premium streaming platform, you’ll need to purchase a subscription to watch any of its content via VPN.
Here are steps to sign up with HBO Max South Korea:
- Enrol in a trusted VPN service (ExpressVPN is recommended).
- Install the VPN application on your device.
- Connect to a US server with the VPN app (Suggested: New York Server).
- Go to HBO Max and press the “sign up now” button.
- Then choose the plan of your choice.
- Fill in your sign-up information and click on Create Account.
- Enter your payment information and a zip code in the United States.
- That’s all! Your account has been established.
Note: It’s important to remember that you can cancel your HBO Max membership at any moment.
How to Pay for HBO Max in South Korea
It’s incredibly simple to sign up for HBO Max South Korea, am I right? But have you wondered how you can pay for your subscription in Korea because it only accepts a US-based payment method?
Relax; the process is also relatively simple if you use any of the following payment methods:
- HBO Max Gift card – They are available through My gift card supply, Best Buy, and Gift Card cabin and are easily redeemable online at hbomax.com/gift
- US Pay Pal Account of a friend or family – When it comes to making payments online, PayPal is one of the best options. For this to work with HBO Max, you will need a US PayPal account from a friend or family who lives in the US.
- Google pay or Apple ID – If you’ve signed up using your Android or iOS device, you can also pay for HBO Max in Korea using iTunes and Google Pay.
Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch HBO Max in Korea?
HBO Max hasn’t been offered in many regions, including Korea, due to content distribution policies. So you’ll need to rely on a high-end HBO Max VPN.
Otherwise, you will see the following error message on your screen if you try to connect to its website outside of the US:
“Sorry, HBO MAX isn’t available in your region yet.”

HBO Max is a geo-blocked service and can be accessed via VPN only
However, this does not rule out the possibility of an affirmative response to the question, “Can you get HBO Max in South Korea?” Indeed, with the right hack – a VPN.
A trustworthy VPN service like ExpressVPN allows you to hide your online activity and give yourself an American IP address. You don’t need anything else to watch HBO Max Korea.
Best VPNs to Watch HBO Max in South Korea in 2023
We tested 15+ VPN services that allow users to access HBO Max in South Korea. After a thorough evaluation, we find the following three VPNs are effective with HBO Max Korea:
- ExpressVPN – Recommended VPN
- Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN
- NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN
VPN Speed test from South Korea to the United States
Our selected VPNs have the finest speed for streaming of HBO Max South Korea. Moreover, they come with unlimited bandwidth, so users can enjoy an uninterrupted streaming experience in 4k despite the long distance between the US and South Korea.
Here is the summary of the latest speed test results conducted on the US servers of VPNs over a base network of 100 Mbps connections:
VPN Provider | Connected Server | Download Speed | Upload Speed |
ExpressVPN | New York | 89.78 Mbps | 82.22 Mbps |
Surfshark | Seattle | 86.56 Mbps | 44.07 Mbps |
NordVPN | Atlanta | 86.18 Mbps | 42.13 Mbps |
Let us go over their features in more detail:
1. ExpressVPN – Recommended VPN to watch HBO Max in South Korea
Key Features
- US Servers count: 25 servers
- Simultaneous connections: 5 devices
- Supporting devices: Firestick, Xbox, Apple TV, Roku, PlayStation
- MediaStreamer, and a comprehensive set of robust security features.
- Money-back guarantee: 30-day
ExpressVPN is at the top of our recommended VPN list for HBO Max in South Korea thanks to its fast speed of 89.78 Mbps. You guarantee to have a buffer-free streaming experience with ExpressVPN.
This lightning-fast streaming VPN boost a reliable network of over 3000+ servers in 94+ countries, including 25 in the main locations of the United States.
During the speed test, on a 100 Mbps internet connection, the New York server gave us 89.78 Mbps downloading and 82.22 Mbps uploading speed.
ExpressVPN features AES 256-bit encryption to ensure a secure connection. An automatic kill switch, a strict no-log policy, and DNS leak prevention are also included to stream restricted content without compromising your online privacy.
Compatibility-wise, ExpressVPN lets you watch HBO Max on PS4, Roku, Android TV, Apple TV, PC browsers, Mobile, and Tablets. It offers easy-to-use apps and extensions for all operating systems and devices.
Unable to get HBO Max on LG TV? ExpressVPN offers a MediaStreamer (SmartDNS) for devices that cannot connect to a VPN. You can share VPN on up to five devices simultaneously with a single subscription.
ExpressVPN’s 12-month bundle is available for an average monthly price of KRW 8843.66 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save 49% and get 3 extra months FREE with 12-month plan. It has a 30-day refund guarantee that facilitates a risk-free trial period.
You can also utilize this VPN to watch MLB Games on one of Max’s Content Hubs which includes DirecTV, Crunchy Roll, TNT Library, and many more. You can also watch Live Events like Lakers vs Nuggets and AEW Double or Nothing and so much more.
The dependable 24/7 customer service may be reached anywhere via using live chat or email.
2. Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN to watch HBO Max in South Korea
Key Features
- US Servers count: 600+ servers
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices
- Supporting devices: Firestick, Xbox, Apple TV, Roku, PlayStation
- WireGuard Protocol along with features of CleanWeb and Camouflage Mode
- Money-back guarantee: 30-days
- Free trial: 7 days free trial on iOS and Android
Surfshark outperforms many premium VPNs by providing reasonably priced, high-quality features. A subscription costs KRW 3049.54 /mo (US$ 2.30 /mo ) - 82% Off on 2 Years Plan and includes unlimited multi-logins.
Surfshark has approximately 3200+ servers in 65+ countries. Users outside the United States can easily stream HBO Max in Korea because of its 600 US servers.
You can also enjoy watching The Best Movies on HBO Max on your preferred devices like Android TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, and many more.
At a connection speed of 100 Mbps, Surfshark provides outstanding download and upload speeds of 86.56 Mbps and 44.07 Mbps. With this kind of speed, you can enjoy watching Manchester City vs Real Madrid live stream semifinal on HBO Max in Italy without dealing with serious lags or buffers.
It has AES-256-GCM encryption, a kill switch, Camouflage Mode, and DNS leak prevention. The security option includes a multi-hop, No Border, CleanWeb, and no connection or activity logs policy.
Surfshark has dedicated apps for a variety of platforms, including Mac, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. A free 7-day trial is available via the Google Play Store and Apple app store as well.
You have 30 days to request a refund if you are unhappy with the VPN service. Surfshark live tech help is accessible 24/7 a day.
3. NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN to watch HBO Max in South Korea
- Servers count in the US: 1970+ servers in 15+ locations
- Simultaneous connections: 6 devices
- Supporting devices: Firestick, Xbox, Apple TV, Roku, PlayStation
- Money-back guarantee: 30-days
- Free trial: 7 days free trial on iOS and Android
NordVPN offers the most extensive server network for accessing HBO Max South Korea. There are approximately 1970 servers spread throughout 15 US cities.
Overall, it has 5543+ servers spread over 60+ countries. The servers are quick and efficient, allowing you to access numerous VOD platforms such as HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer in South Korea.
During a speed test on a 100 Mbps connection, the NordVPN results were 42.13 Mbps upload and 86.18 Mbps download.
These speeds will be enough if you wish to watch HBO in Korea or other regions like getting HBO Max Costa in Rica in HD.
NordVPN provides a strict no-logs policy, as well as fantastic features like AES-256-bit encryption, Threat Protection, Double VPN, a kill switch, and much more. With this security feature of NordVPN you can witness the intense rivalry between AC Milan vs Inter Milan Semi Final, live streaming seamlessly on HBO Max in South Korea.
This VPN is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. NordVPN also has the SmartPlay Smart DNS to watch HBO Max in South Korea on non-Android devices, such as game consoles, Firesticks, or smart TVs.
With the features mentioned above you can also watch Live Events like Manchester City vs Bayern without any hassle.
NordVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections per subscription for KRW 4627.34 /mo (US$ 3.49 /mo ) - Save 60% on 2 Years Deal. In addition to a 30-day money-back guarantee, all plan provides real-time client support.
Can I use a free VPN to watch HBO Max in South Korea?
Yes! You can use a free VPN to watch HBO Max in South Korea. However, we will not advise them as free VPNs are not as dependable or quick as premium VPNs.
Many HBO Max Korea free VPNs host a large crowd of users on their servers which badly affects the streaming quality and speed. Additionally, they are infamous for having data limits and selling their users’ data.
Therefore, join a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN and get unlimited bandwidth and fast speed to watch HBO Max in Korea.
How much does HBO Max cost in KR?
HBO Max offers two pricing tiers: Ad-supported and Ad-free plans. Thanks to a VPN, you will enjoy the US library of HBO and will be charged the same fee as subscribers in the United States.
The following is a table showing how much is HBO Max price in both US dollars and South Korean won:
HBO Max Membership Plan | With Advertisement | Without Ads |
Monthly Plan | USD 9.99/mo (KRW12309.08/mo) | USD14.99 (KRW18469.78/mo) |
Annual Plan | USD99.99 (KRW 123201.68/mo) | USD 149.99 (KRW184808.68/mo) |
As Amazon Prime or Hulu offers HBO Max as an add-on, you can also try a seven-day HBO Max free trial on your existing Prime Video or Hulu membership.
All Compatible Apps & Devices for HBO Max Korea
The following is a list of devices that let you access the content of HBO Max in Korea without problems, provided you are connected to a VPN.
iPhone/iPad | Android |
Windows | Mac |
PlayStation 4 & 5 | Nintendo |
Roku | Xbox |
Apple TV | Amazon Fire TV |
Android TV | Google Chromecast |
How to download and Watch HBO Max on your devices?
Though HBO Max supports a variety of devices, the process of downloading HBO max is different on each device.
Below we’ve enlisted steps for how to watch HBO Max in South Korea on the most used devices – Android and iPhone.
How to watch HBO Max online in South Korea on Android?
Does HBO Max work in Korea on Android? Yes, HBO Max works on all Android devices.
Here is how to watch HBO Max in Korea on Android TV, mobile, and tablets.
- Sign up for ExpressVPN, the best HBO Max Korea VPN.
- Download and install the VPN app for Android.
- Connect to the New York server in the United States.
- Install the HBO Max App after downloading it.
- Log in at the HBO max tv sign in page.
- Enjoy watching Max Original shows and movies.
How to watch HBO Max online in South Korea on iPhone?
Wondering how to watch HBO in South Korea using iPhone? Comply with the given steps to watch HBO Max in South Korea on an iOS device:
- Register a VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- Open the VPN application and join the US server (preferably New York).
- Log out of your personal iCloud or Apple ID account.
- Set up a fresh iCloud account and change your country to the USA.
- Insert all necessary information.
- Launch the Apple Store and get the HBO Max App now.
- Sign in to watch HBOMax in Korea on your iPhone.
Best Movies & Shows on HBO Max in South Korea in 2023?
HBO Max has a huge collection of HBO originals, dramas, action, romance, and blockbuster movies.
It also carries on-demand content from various other studios which include Marvel DC, AdultSwim, Cartoon Network, StudioGhibli, and TCM.
Best HBO TV Shows
Followings are the binge-worthy family-friendly TV shows you may watch on HBO Max in South Korea in 2023.
Best HBO Max Movies
Following are the top movies on HBO Max to watch in South Korea in 2023:
Empire of Light | Shazam Fury of Gods |
Those Who Wish Me Dead | Joker |
Bama Rush | Dune |
Catwoman: Hunted | Black Adam |
Mortal Kombat | All That Breathes |
The Menu | Blade Runner |
The City of Lost Children | The Lord of the Ring Trilogy |
All The Beauty And The Bloodshed | Inception |
Does HBO Max have South Koreans Shows?
Yes! One can find plenty of the best Korean dramas on HBO Max. Look at our list of HBO Max Korean series and movies that are presently accessible for streaming:
- Crazy Rich Asians
- Legacy
- Miss Sherlock
- Yun
- Neh
- Miss S
- Kung Fu
- Folklore
- Drive My Car
- The Warrior’s Way
What Errors I can face while watching HBO Max, and how to fix them?
You may encounter the following errors when your HBO Max is not working in Korea. We’ve explained the reasons behind these errors.
Common HBO Max Error | Cause of the Error |
Error Code 321 | Poor Internet Connection |
HBO Max Error Code 102 | Incompatible device |
HBO Max Error Code 905 | Apps corrupted due to a virus |
Error Code 100 | VPN or proxy detected |
HBO Max Error code 420 | Geo-restrictions |
Error Code H-236ea1cf | HBO service is down |
HBO Max Error Code Eli-1020 | Compatibility issues with your smart TV or with the server |
However, these are easy to resolve with basic troubleshooting. Try the following quick fixes if you’ve faced any of the above-mentioned errors:
- Delete your browsing history
- Check the speed of your internet connection. A slow or irregular network connection is the primary cause of videos buffer or poor quality.
- Check the HBO Max server status.
- Connect to another US server of a VPN.
- Change your VPN protocols.
- Restart your streaming device.
- Delete the HBO Max app and then reinstall it
HBO Max in South Korea: FAQs
Is HBO Max available in Korea?
Is HBO Max different in different countries?
Does HBO Max work in South Korea?
Can I watch my HBO Max in another country?
Is HBO Max country locked?
Can you get HBO in South Korea?
Can you watch HBO Max for free if you’ve HBO?
How do I change my location on HBO Max?
Wrap Up!
We hope our guide has answered your question about ‘Is HBO Max in South Korea‘ and clarify you how to watch HBO Max in Korea.
HBO Max provides numerous thrilling TV movies and shows. However, the service is only available in the United States. Here, a VPN is a true savior that facilitates you to unblock all limitations and get HBO Max Korea.
We highly recommend ExpressVPN after testing most of the available VPNs on the market for its fantastic speed and superb device compatibility.