KoreaGo works best with JavaScript enabled. This static summary is provided for search engines and visitors without JavaScript.
Korea Payment & Currency Guide | KoreaGo
Foreign cards, cash exchange, ATMs, and payment tips for travelers in Korea.
Frequently asked questions
Do foreign credit cards work in Korea?
Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and UnionPay are accepted at most restaurants, convenience stores, shopping malls, and hotels. American Express has limited acceptance. Traditional markets, small local eateries, and street stalls may still require cash. Apple Pay acceptance is growing rapidly in Seoul and major cities.
What is the best way to exchange money in Korea?
Private exchange offices in Myeongdong and Namdaemun typically offer better rates than airport counters or bank branches. Using a bank app (e.g., Hana Bank) to pre-order KRW online at a preferential rate and collect at the airport is also efficient. Airport exchange counters are convenient but offer less favorable rates — use them only for small emergency amounts.
How much cash should I bring for a trip to Korea?
Card payments are widely accepted, but keeping 30,000–50,000 KRW (roughly $22–37 USD) cash per day is a safe buffer for traditional markets, small restaurants, and street stalls. You can withdraw cash from ATMs marked 'Global ATM' (found in convenience stores) using a foreign card — fees are about 2,000–5,000 KRW. Cash is also needed to top up T-Money cards, so always carry a little.