[Review] Ultra-Personalized Custom Plan LGU+ 'Nugget'... Pay As You Use

Other Company Users Can Sign Up in 4-5 Minutes via App
Bundled Discounts and Exclusive Memberships Available

I subscribed to the ultra-personalized telecom lifestyle platform plan 'Nerget' launched by LG Uplus. Nerget promotes a digital-based platform and ultra-personalized customized plans that allow users to conveniently handle all telecom-related processes 100% via mobile.

The first impression is a clean atmosphere with intuitive UX/UI. Users of other telecom companies or MVNOs can also subscribe.

Nugget App Usage Screen

The reporter is using an eSIM (embedded Subscriber Identity Module) MVNO plan as a secondary line in addition to the main line. Since the promotion period for the secondary line had just ended, I tried switching the number to subscribe to the Nerget plan. The eSIM secondary line is usually used only for receiving calls, so I subscribed to the cheapest 5G plan with 1GB data and a speed limit of 400Kbps after data exhaustion. The price is 30,000 KRW. Depending on the plan, you can choose speed limit (QoS) options such as 400Kbps, 1Mbps, or 3Mbps. The complicated subscription process was simplified and took about 4 to 5 minutes. Since it is an eSIM subscription, there is no need to wait for a physical SIM delivery, allowing immediate activation.

The subscription process was more intuitive and simpler than when I previously subscribed to an MVNO. It felt smooth. Also, it was good that the complex telecom plans were organized so that they could be viewed at a glance. Compared to existing plans, the data tiers are densely structured between 2GB and 5GB.

Another advantage is 'Party Pay,' which allows discounts by combining plans with friends or others outside the family. Up to 4 lines can be combined, and depending on the number of combined lines and plans, discounts range from 2,000 to 14,000 KRW. It is a prepaid plan with no contract, so you can freely change plans. Since billing is pro-rated based on usage, if you use less data than expected at the end of the month, you can downgrade your plan to reduce telecom expenses. If you have used all your basic data but want to watch online video services (OTT) or need tethering, you can purchase a 'Booster' that charges by time or GB. This is why the company describes it as an ‘ultra-personalized customized plan.’

However, if you only consider the monthly fee, MVNOs are more advantageous. Although a bit cumbersome, hopping around like a locust during MVNO promotional periods is the cheapest option. For example, comparing the plan I subscribed to, if you join an MVNO promotional plan, you can get more data on 5G for under 10,000 KRW, and there are even 0 KRW LTE plans.

To differentiate from existing services, they introduced an exclusive membership called 'Xtem.' It provides free or discounted coupons usable at local attractions. In December, they offer a Daehangno theater pass, including free invitations and discount tickets for plays carefully selected by a curator. Previously, they introduced attractions in Yeonnam-dong and Yeonhui-dong and atmospheric cafes, providing free coupons and discounts. However, it is still centered around Seoul, so only customers in the metropolitan area can fully enjoy the benefits, which is a downside. Also, you can use one-day classes on the hobby and leisure platform 'Somssidang' at a 50% discounted price.

If you usually use Wi-Fi or do not consume much data through videos or games and use a similar amount of data every month, this plan is worth considering. It can also be a good choice if you want a cheaper plan than the existing three major telecom companies and find it difficult to subscribe to an MVNO.