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HBO-Max-in South Korea

If you are here to know how to watch US HBO Max in South Korea? It can be a challenge due to geo-restrictions. Although the service has expanded its reach, it’s not yet available worldwide. For those eager to dive into the rich library of HBO Max originals, movies and series, a VPN like ExpressVPN is an essential tool to unlock full potential of HBO Max in Korea.

Encountering a geo-restriction error message “Sorry, HBO Max isn’t available in your region yet,” indicates the need for a reliable VPN, such as ExpressVPN, to bypass these limitations and unlock HBO Max’s full offerings. Based on thorough testing, my recommendation assures you a seamless streaming of Ninja Kamui. Let’s find out how to watch US HBO content in South Korea.


How to Watch US HBO Max in South Korea [Easy Guide]

To watch US HBO Max in South Korea, follow the below steps:

  1. Get yourself a ExpressVPN subscription.
  2. Download and Install the ExpressVPN app on your device.
  3. Choose a server located in the United States. (New York)
  4. Visit the HBO Max website and create an account or log in and enjoy streaming HBO Max in Korea whenever you want.

Note: Grab ExpressVPN Exclusive Deal- - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.

If you need more guidance, read our blog about how to pay for Max in South Korea. It is a straightforward process as you don’t even need a US debit or credit card.


Can I Watch US HBO Max in South Korea?

Yes, you can access HBO Max in South Korea by utilizing a VPN. However, due to licensing restrictions, HBO Max is not directly available for viewers in South Korea.

By using a VPN like ExpressVPN to hide your IP address, HBO Max will recognize your location as the United States, allowing you to overcome regional restrictions and access its content.


Has HBO Max Rebranded Itself in 2023? HBO Max and Discovery Plus Merger Answered

Yes, In 2023, HBO Max embarked on a substantial rebranding journey following its merger with Discovery Plus, resulting in a single, comprehensive streaming service named ‘Max‘. This strategic consolidation combined the extensive content libraries and subscriber bases of both platforms, establishing a more diverse and broad-ranging streaming powerhouse.

To understand the difference between HBO Max and Max services and perks, you can read our guide on HBO Max vs Max in South Korea.


Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch US HBO Max in South Korea?

You need a VPN to watch US HBO Max in South Korea, as the streaming service is available only in the US and a few of its territories in Latin America. The reason why is HBO Max not in Korea is the licensing agreements between Bell Media and Warner Bros.

Due to this, the following message will appear if you try to watch HBO Max in Korea without a VPN:

“Sorry, HBO Max isn’t available in your region yet.”

hbo-max-geo-restriction-error-in-South Korea

HBO Max geo-restriction error

Through a VPN connection, you may unblock and view all of your favorite shows and movies from anywhere in the world. A VPN like ExpressVPN is crucial for streaming HBO Max in South Korea due to regional content restrictions.

Moreover, a VPN allows you to bypass these geo-blocks by rerouting your internet connection through servers in the U.S., enabling access to the platform. In addition to unblocking content, a VPN offers enhanced privacy and security by encrypting your connection and protecting your online identity.


How to Subscribe to HBO Max in South Korea

To subscribe to HBO Max in South Korea, you cannot use your local credit card. Instead, there are three ways to subscribe to HBO Max in South Korea:

There are three different methods to sign up for HBO Max in South Korea:

Let’s look at each method in detail below:

Method 1: Subscribing to HBO Max in South Korea using a gift card:

You can also subscribe to HBO South Korea using an HBO gift card. Just follow the steps below:

  1. Visit MyGiftCardSupply and purchase an HBO Max gift card.
  2. Go to HBO Max and click Redeem your Gift Card.
  3. Enter your gift card number and a US zip code.
  4. Enter your email ID, username, and other information.

That’s it. You have successfully subscribed to the HBO Max account in South Korea using a gift card.

Method 2: Subscribe to HBO Max in South Korea with iTunes

Apart from the other two options, you may also subscribe and pay for HBO Max in South Korea with iTunes:

  1. Using ExpressVPN, connect to a US server.
  2. From your iOS device, go to settings > tap on your Apple account > Media & Purchases > change your region to the USA.
  3. Purchase an iTunes gift card from a reputable site to fill your account with funds.
  4. Visit Apple App Store and download the HBO Max app.
  5. Launch the app and then click ‘Sign up now.’
  6. Pick a subscription plan of your liking and type in your iTunes account credentials to proceed.
  7. Provide all the necessary details to create an account.
  8. Once the transaction is processed, log in and watch US HBO Max in South Korea.

Method 3: How Do I Get to HBO Max on Google Play

You can pay the HBO Max price using Google ID HBO Max in South Korea as follows:

  • Sign up with a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN.
  • Download the VPN app and connect to a server in the United States. (Suggested server: New York)
  • Launch Google Play Store, tap on the three bars at the top left corner, and go to your account.
  • Switch your region to the US.
  • Confirm the country change, and download the HBO Max application.
  • Select Google Pay when paying the HBO Max USA price and enjoy streaming.

3 Best VPN to Watch US HBO Max in South Korea [2024 In-Depth Analysis]

After researching and testing 15 VPNs, we’ve developed a list of the best VPNs for HBO Max in South Korea.

Listed below are several highly regarded VPN services that are equipped with fast servers, efficient unblocking tools, and stringent security protocols:

VPN Service Key Features Pricing Recommended Servers
ExpressVPN Fast streaming, 256-bit encryption KRW 9193.34/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free New York, Washington DC
Surfshark Unlimited devices, ad-blocking KRW 3432/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee Seattle, New York
NordVPN Large server network, extra security features KRW 5499.46/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend Atlanta, New York

1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Watch US HBO Max in South Korea

ExpressVPN-in-south-korea

Key Features:

  • MediaStreamer function.
  • As many as 8 gadgets can connect at once.
  • On a 100 Mbps line, 89.42 Mbps download speed.
  • You have 30 days to request a refund.

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for HBO Max in South Korea because of its fast connection speeds of 89.42 Mbps and comprehensive feature set. With its high-speed servers, particularly in the United States, ExpressVPN ensures a smooth and buffer-free streaming experience.

There are approximately 3000 servers located in 105+ different countries. You may get HBO Max from South Korea by connecting to one of the 25 supported US-based servers.

watch-hbo-max-in-South Korea-with-expressvpn

Watch HBO Max in South Korea with ExpressVPN.

Recommended Servers: New York, Washington DC

ExpressVPN is the best virtual private network to access shows and movies outside the United States. Getting HBO Max in Spain using the same VPN is also possible.

With our 100 Mbps internet connection, the ExpressVPN speed test delivered an impressive download speed of 89.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.64 Mbps. ExpressVPN ensures that your streaming is in Ultra HD quality without buffering issues.

Expressvpn-speed-test-on-100-mbps (2)-in-South Korea

ExpressVPN speed test.

ExpressVPN is reviewed as the secured VPN to watch Max in South Korea. It offers 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch feature, ensuring your online activities remain private and secure while you stream.

ExpressVPN MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) feature enables connections from any device or operating system without needing the VPN client software. Desktop PCs, Apple TVs, Rokus, PlayStations, Firesticks, and Smart TVs are just some devices compatible with ExpressVPN (using up to 8 connections simultaneously).

You can swiftly stream HBO Max on Xbox in South Korea using this unique feature. You can get a membership to ExpressVPN HBO Max for KRW 9193.34/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free and get a 30-day free trial with money-back guarantee.

Pros
  • Optimized US servers
  • Unblocks HBO Max within seconds
  • Blazing-fast speeds supporting HD streaming
  • Doesn’t log user data
  • 24/7 live chat support

Cons
  • Offers connectivity of up to 8 devices only
  • Slightly expensive deals

2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN to Watch US HBO Max in South Korea

surfshark

Key Features:

  • The Whitelisting Function
  • When measured against a 100 Mbps connection, the speed is 88.14 Mbps.
  • No limits on the number of connected devices
  • A thirty-day money-back guarantee is provided.

Surfshark is the best value VPN service for unblocking HBO Max and HBO GO in South Korea, costing just KRW 3432/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. Members may connect to any of its 3200 servers in 100 different locations.

watch-hbo-max-in-South Korea-with-surfshark

Watch HBO Max in Korea with Surfshark

Recommended Servers: Seattle, New York.

The block of HBO Max in Korea was promptly and efficiently lifted using the Seattle server. We suggest avoiding the Dallas server if you don’t enjoy dealing with choppy frames.

During Surfshark speed test, it performed superbly, providing a download speed of 88.14 Mbps and an upload speed of 83.72 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.

surfshark-speed-test-in-South Korea

Surfshark speed test.

All of Surfshark’s top features, including the VPN Kill Switch, Clean Web, Bypasser, and Camouflage Mode, are encrypted with AES-256. The most attractive aspect of the service is that it allows as many simultaneous connections as the user likes for the price of one membership.Surfshark’s software is accessible on various operating systems and gadgets such as Linux, Mac, Windows, etc.

Moreover, given its compatibility, users can connect HBO Max on Xbox, iOS, Android, and Smart TV. You can also get HBO Max on Chromecast in South Korea with Surfshark. You can also try Surfshark’s free trial to get a hands-on experience.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly plans
  • Large global server presence
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Multi-hop and split tunneling tools

Cons
  • For iOS, split tunneling is not supported
  • There are a few features for macOS
  • Occasional slow speeds

3. NordVPN – Fastest VPN to Watch US HBO Max in South Korea

NordVPN

Key Features:

  • Dual Virtual Private Networking
  • With a 100 Mbps connection, it gives speeds of 86.49 Mbps.
  • Six devices can connect at once.
  • The refund policy of 30 days‘ worth of your money

NordVPN has the most extensive server networks among VPN services, making it an excellent choice for HBO Max from abroad. More than 6000 servers exist in 61+ countries to bypass censorship.

watch-hbo-max-in-South Korea-with-nordvpn

Watch US HBO Max in South Korea with NordVPN

Recommended Servers: Atlanta, New York.

NordVPN for HBO Max uses military-grade AES-256 encryption and also has top-tier security measures. Some other standout features are a VPN Kill Switch, Split Tunneling, and Double VPN.

Each user profile can maintain up to six simultaneous connections. When performing the NordVPN speed test to watch Max, we got an upload speed of 79.42 Mbps, while the highest download speed was 86.49 Mbps.

nordvpn-speed-test-in-South Korea

NordVPN speed test.

It’s compatible with almost every operating system to watch US HBO Max on Windows in South Korea, Linux, FireOS, Android, iOS, macOS, and more. We had a great time testing NordVPN on Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, etc.

Following a thorough NordVPN review, it has been determined that the service provides competitive pricing at KRW 5499.46/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend. If you’re unsatisfied with the service, NordVPN provides a refund within 30 days after purchase.

Pros
  • Largest sever network in the US and abroad
  • Reliably unblock HBO Max in South Korea and other streaming sites
  • Six simultaneous connections
  • Strong security and privacy

Cons
  • Windows app takes multiple clicks to disconnect


Assessing Methodology for HBO Max VPN South Korea

Following thorough research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the most reliable VPNs for HBOMax Korea. In our evaluation, we considered several key factors, including:

Considerations Key Features
Servers in the United States The server locations of the VPN should predominantly be in the United States, as this is crucial for accessing HBO Max, which is exclusively available to users in the United States.
High Bandwidth A stable and effective connection, offering unlimited bandwidth, guarantees seamless HD streaming without interruptions.
Strong Security Make certain that the VPN offers strong encryption and security measures to protect your personal data and privacy during streaming sessions.
Device Compatibility The VPN ought to support numerous streaming devices such as Android, macOS, Windows, iOS, and others, enabling access to HBO Max across different platforms.
Easy to Use The VPN interface should be easy to navigate and free from technical glitches, while also offering efficient customer service to resolve any issues related to streaming.

You can also check out HBO Max Bundle in South Korea, if you are looking for other streaming service to stream HBO Max hassle-free.


Can I use a free VPN to stream HBO Max in South Korea?

Yes, you can use a free VPN to access HBO Max outside the US, which can be beneficial for accessing geo-blocked content without spending money. Free VPNs for HBO Max in South Korea offer a quick and cost-effective solution, allowing you to mask your IP address and appear as if you are browsing from within the US.

However, some drawbacks are associated with free VPNs for HBO Max, including slower speeds, data caps, unreliable server availability, and potential security risks. They might struggle to bypass geo-restrictions consistently, leading to frustrating streaming experiences or being blocked entirely.

You’ll need a reliable VPN if you’re trying to watch US HBO Max in South Korea. Using a premium VPN service, such as ExpressVPN, you can watch your favorite shows without compromising your privacy or security.


What’s the Price of HBO Max Korean?

Max-pricing-in-South Korea

If you are here to know how much is Max in South Korea? HBO Max price depends upon its 3 packages: The Ads-Lite, Ad-free and Ultimate subscriptions. The platform provides various subscription tiers to cater to different user preferences and budgets, let’s look more closely at these:

Subscription plan Max Ad-Lite Max Ad-Free Max Ultimate
Monthly Bundle KRW 13030.86 /mo KRW 20853.36 /mo KRW 26068.96 /mo
Yearly Bundle KRW 13030.86 /yr KRW 20853.36 /yr KRW 26068.96 /yr
Offline Download 0 30 Videos 100 Videos
Resolution Quality HD HD 4k HDR
Concurrent Streaming 2 devices 2 devices 4 devices
Dolby Atmos Sound No No Yes
Key Content Offerings HBO Originals, Warner Bros films, and more Expanded library includes Discovery Channel, TLC, and more Advanced features like 4K UHD streaming

Note: If you are looking for HBO Max free trial in South Korea, regrettably, it may not be an option as of 2024. However, alternative services offer opportunities to stream HBO Max content for free, such as accessing specific free episodes, or you can utilize Hulu and Amazon Add-ons to stream the platform.

You may also look for ways how to cancel HBO Max in South Korea, it’s a simple process. However, I recommend that you keep the subscription and enjoy the unlimited TV series, movies, and live sports events Max offers its users.


Big Savings Alert: Get Up to 40% Off Yearly Plans and Stream Best Content on HBO Max

For a limited time only, you can score incredible discounts of over 40% on our yearly plans:

  • With Ads: Now only $69.99/year or AUD 107.44/yr
  • Ad-Free: Just $104.99/year or AUD 161.16/yr
  • Ultimate Ad-Free: Only $139.99/year or AUD 214.89/yr

This amazing 40% off deal is up for grabs for both new subscribers and those returning, but there’s a catch for Amazon Appstore – it’s exclusively for new sign-ups.

Here’s where you can snag this offer:

  • Max.com
  • Amazon Appstore *(New Subscribers Only)
  • Apple
  • Google Play
  • Roku

And here’s the fine print: After the initial 12-month discounted period, the subscription rates will revert to their regular prices – KRW 13030.86 /yr for With Ads, KRW 20853.36 /yr for Ad-Free, and KRW 26068.96 /yr for Ultimate.

Don’t miss out on these incredible savings – sign up now and enjoy your favorite content without breaking the bank!


What Devices are Compatible with Watching HBO Max Korea?

Is HBO Max available in Korea? No, but using ExpressVPN, you may stream HBO Max online with almost any standard device in South Korea.

Firestick Apple TV iOS Samsung Smart TV
Android Google Chromecast VIZIO Smart TV Nintendo
Xbox PS4/PS5 PlayStation Roku

How Can I download the HBO Max App for South Korea on Android devices?

Here is how you can download and watch your favorite series and movies on HBO Max on your Android device.

  1. Get ExpressVPN App.
  2. Connect to a New York server.
  3. Log in to your newly created Google account.
  4. Search for the HBO Max App.
  5. Install it, then create a new account.
  6. You can now access it on your Android device and enjoy a movie or show.

How Can I download the HBO Max App for South Korea on iOS devices?

Follow the steps given below to download HBO Max on your iOS device:

  1. Log out of your existing Apple ID.
  2. Create a new Apple ID and select the US as your country. Fill in other details, and you can add your Canadian phone number because Apple doesn’t verify it.
  3. Once you have created a US Apple ID, log in to your iPhone or iPad
  4. Go to App Store and install the HBO Max App.
  5. Sign up and download a VPN on your phone if you don’t have one (We recommend ExpressVPN).
  6. Open the HBO Max App, sign up for it, and enjoy watching HBO Max.

Note: Read our guide on how to watch HBO Max on iPhone in South Korea for more details.

How Can I get HBO Max in Korea on Roku

Follow the steps given below to set up HBO Max in South Korea on your Roku device:

  1. Subscribe to our top recommended VPN – ExpressVPN.
  2. Set up ExpressVPN on Roku using our step-by-step guide.
  3. Connect to a New York server from its US servers list.
  4. Visit the home page of Roku, look for HBO Max, and sign in.
  5. Once you’re done, enjoy streaming HBO Max on Roku.

Note: If you want more details about setting up and streaming HBO Max on Roku in South Korea, follow our guide.

How Can I watch HBO Max in Korea on Amazon Firestick

Wondering how to stream HBO Max on Firestick in South Korea, simply follow the steps given below:

  1. Subscribe to the best Firestick VPN, i.e., ExpressVPN.
  2. Download the VPN app by visiting the home page of your Firestick.
  3. Log in and connect to a US-New York server.
  4. Next, visit the HBO Max app.
  5. Sign in and start enjoying HBO Max on your Firestick in South Korea.

Note: If you want more details about setting up and streaming HBO Max on Firestick in South Korea, follow our guide.


How to fix HBO Max not working in South Korea?

Encountering issues with HBO Max not working in South Korea with a VPN can be attributed to VPN servers being blocked by HBO Max. To circumvent this, consider switching to an alternative server in a country where HBO Max is accessible.

Additionally, you can try these troubleshooting methods to fix HBO not in service area in South Korea error as well. Check out some troubleshooting tips:

  • Put the streaming gadget to sleep by turning it off.
  • Power down all network hardware (modem, router, etc.).
  • Clear your browsing history.
  • Check the HBO Max update.
  • Test your Internet Connection
  • Reboot your streaming device
  • Switch to a new server in the US
  • Contact the HBO Max support team.

HBO Max Error Code 100: Solved

While utilizing a VPN often resolves most streaming problems when accessing HBO Max in Korea, occasional glitches like the “Not in Service Area, or VPN Detected” message might still occur. If you encounter this issue while using ExpressVPN, chances are slim, but it’s comforting to know that a solution is straightforward.

Given ExpressVPN’s extensive network, featuring hundreds of servers across nearly every country and thousands of IP addresses, simply disconnecting and reconnecting to a different U.S. server should quickly get you back to streaming your preferred shows and movies on HBO Max in Korea without any trouble.


Not only does HBO Max have Doctor Who, but given the varied and gigantic library, everyone can find stuff to suit their tastes, whether they enjoy kdramas on hbo max, animated films, or documentary series.

Nothing to worry about if you have trouble deciding what to watch on HBO Max in South Korea. Followings are the most popular shows and movies to watch on HBO Max in South Korea in 2024.

What Popular Movies and Documentaries Can I Watch on HBO Max?

Delve into a captivating line-up of best movies on HBO Max in South Korea in 2024:

Harry Potter Movies Metalocalypse Army of the Doomstar The Zone of Interest Movie
Brandy Hellville & The Cult of Fast Fashion A Star Is Born Movie Homefront
An American Bombing: The Road to April 19th San Andreas Movie The Comeback Show
Massacre of the Mormons Documentary The Color Purple 2023 Love & Marriage: DC
Ghost Adventures House Calls Season 2 Wonka 2024 The Synanon Fix Documentary Episode 2

What Popular Shows Can I Watch on HBO Max?

Explore a rich selection of best shows on HBO Max in South Korea in 2024:

With their latest offering in April 2024, from action-packed films to korean dramas, there’s no shortage of entertainment on HBO Max in the coming days.

Following are the latest shows and movies available for streaming on HBO Max in April 2024:

Quiet on Set The Dark Side of Kids TV Major League Baseball Games 2024
Black Swan 90 Day Fiancé: Love in Paradise Season 4
76ers vs Knicks game 2 The Sympathizer
Vegas: The Story of Sin City 2024 United States of Scandal with Jake Tapper 2024
Lakers vs Nuggets NBA Playoff Game 2 Suns vs Timberwolves Game 2
Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths Part One MotoGP Spain 2024
The Sympathizer Season 1 Episode 1 Be My Guest with Ina Garten Season 4
HGTV Smart Home 2024 Tour of the Alps 2024
Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs The Jinx Part Two
Roadkill Garage Season 9 Farmhouse Fixer Season 3
Kings vs Pelicans play-in tournament he Sympathizer Season 1 Episode 2
The Losers Islanders vs Hurricanes Game 1

Except this, you can also watch best Korean movies on HBO Max like “She Was Pretty, 18 Again, Haereul poomeun dal and many more by connecting ExpressVPN.



FAQs

Yes, you can watch HBO Max in another country by using a reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN to connect to a US server, as HBO Max is primarily available in the United States.

Yes, HBO Max is country-locked and primarily available in the United States, requiring a VPN to access it from other countries.

No, you cannot. HBO itself is not directly available in South Korea, but you can access HBO content through streaming services like HBO Max using a VPN such as ExpressVPN .

If you already have an HBO subscription, you can access HBO Max at no additional cost, as it’s included with your existing HBO service.

No, HBO Max haven’t Korean subtitles. However, they do broadcast some HBO programming (Game of Thrones, Westworld) on a premium Korean channel and that has subtitles.

To change your location on HBO Max, use a VPN service like ExpressVPN to connect to a server in a different country where HBO Max is available.

Yes, HBO Max have Kdramas like W (2016), She Was Pretty (2015), 18 Again (2020), Haereul poomeun dal (2012).

The name “Max” instead of “HBO Max” reflects a rebranding strategy to broaden the platform’s appeal beyond traditional HBO content, encompassing a wider range of entertainment.

No, HBO Max’s content can vary by country due to regional licensing agreements and restrictions.

Yes, HBO Max is region locked and accessible in specific countries. If you’re outside of the US, Latin America, the Caribbean, and certain European countries and you try to access the platform, you’ll encounter the “Not Available in Your Region” error message on HBO Max. If you’re traveling abroad, you can regain access to HBO Max with ExpressVPN.

You can stream HBO Max primarily in the United States and certain territories, with plans for further international expansion.


Wrapping it up!

In conclusion, HBO Max, now rebranded as Max, serves as an entertainment powerhouse for viewers in South Korea, offering a rich tapestry of content that spans genres and interests. Now, with the help of this guide, you also know how to watch US HBO Max in South Korea and can now stream blockbuster movies, gripping series, and live sports events.

Accessing this wealth of content is made possible by utilizing a reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN. By doing so, viewers can bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy a seamless streaming experience. As the platform continues to evolve and expand its offerings, it further solidifies its position as a leading streaming service on a global scale.