Samsung Launches Galaxy Buddy 5 with OIS Camera, Big Battery, IP54 Rating

Samsung has launched a new budget smartphone in South Korea called the Galaxy Buddy 5. The device is exclusive to carrier LG Uplus and continues the company’s long-running strategy of offering Korea-specific rebranded Galaxy phones through local operators. In this case, it rebranded the Galaxy A17 5G, which launched globally last year.

Samsung targets budget 5G buyers with the Galaxy Buddy 5

Samsung has been launching Korea-exclusive devices like Galaxy Buddy, Galaxy Jump, and Galaxy Quantum for several years now. These devices are usually based on existing global models but are slightly customized for local carriers. The Galaxy Buddy lineup specifically has been tied to LG Uplus since 2021. The new Galaxy Buddy 5 is the fifth-generation model in the series.

The Galaxy Buddy 5 features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution, 90Hz refresh rate, and up to 800 nits brightness. Samsung’s 5nm Exynos 1330 chipset powers the phone, paired with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, expandable up to 2TB. It runs Android 16-based One UI 8 out of the box and is eligible for five years of updates.

On the camera side, Samsung includes 50MP primary camera with OIS, 5MP ultrawide camera, 2MP macro camera, and 13MP front camera. The phone supports 1080p video recording at 30fps. Additional hardware features include side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and IP54 dust and water resistance. The device packs a 5,000mAh battery and supports 25W wired charging.

The Galaxy Buddy 5 is now available in South Korea, priced at KRW 528,000 (roughly $352). Buyers can choose between Black, Blue, and Gray colors. As part of a limited-time promotion, customers trading in an older smartphone can receive up to KRW 20,000 worth of Naver Pay points. Users trading in eligible bonus devices may receive up to KRW 50,000 in additional Naver Pay rewards.

With the Galaxy Buddy 5, Samsung is offering a large AMOLED display, OIS camera, long software support, and expandable storage. It is targeting buyers who want a capable 5G phone on a budget. LG Uplus executive Lee Hyun-seung described the device as a practical everyday smartphone. Its global version, Galaxy A17 5G, is available in the US for $199.