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MONEY · ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Money & payments
in Korea.

Cards work often—but not everywhere in the same way. Here’s a calm setup for cash, ATMs and getting around.

8 min read Checked August 2026 Korize Practical Edit

THE 30-SECOND VERSION

Use a simple three-part setup.

1

Your main card

Use a Visa or Mastercard with overseas transactions enabled for most hotels, shops and restaurants.

2

A backup

Bring a second card on a different network and keep it separate from your wallet.

3

Some won

Carry modest cash for markets, small businesses and physical transit-card top-ups.

Korize tip

Do not rely on one card, one ATM or one app. A small backup prevents a minor problem from changing your day.

CARDS

Will my foreign card work?

International cards are widely accepted in major cities. A card can still fail because of the issuer, terminal, online verification or the business’s setup.

  • Enable overseas transactions before departure.
  • Know your PIN and check your issuer’s foreign-transaction fees.
  • Choose Korean won when a terminal offers currency conversion.
  • Keep another payment method ready for kiosks and small businesses.

CASH & ATMS

How much cash should I carry?

Start with enough for transport-card loading and one low-cost day, then withdraw more only if needed. Look for an ATM marked Global or showing your card network. Availability and fees vary by machine and issuer.

If an ATM declines

Try another bank’s Global ATM during staffed hours. Repeated attempts at the same machine may trigger security controls.

GETTING AROUND

Transport cards are a separate wallet.

Prepaid cards such as Tmoney work across much of Korea’s bus and subway network and at some shops. Physical cards are sold at many convenience stores and stations. Reload options vary, so cash remains the safest assumption for top-ups.

Visitor-focused alternatives may combine transport and payment features. Compare fees and coverage with your itinerary rather than assuming one product is essential.

MONEY MANNERS

No mental gymnastics required.

Tipping
Not generally expected in everyday restaurants, cafés or taxis. Some premium services may add a service charge.
Splitting bills
Paying as one group is common; friends often settle afterward.
Tax refunds
Keep your passport, receipts and unused goods available when required.

BEFORE LANDING

Your payment checklist

VERIFY BEFORE YOU GO

Official sources

Services change. Check these official pages for current operating details.

VISITKOREA: Transportation Cards ↗ VISITKOREA: Helpful Apps & Resources ↗ Korea Customs Service: Tax Refund ↗