Money & Payments
South Korea is one of the most cashless countries on earth. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, and a transit card handles the rest. Carry a little cash only for traditional markets.
Currency
Korean won (₩)
Cards
Accepted almost everywhere
Transit card
T-money
Cash backup
₩50,000–100,000
Cards work everywhere
Foreign Visa and Mastercard are accepted at the vast majority of shops, cafes and restaurants — even small ones. Contactless is common.
Get a T-money card
Buy a T-money card at any convenience store, top it up with cash, and tap onto the metro, buses and even some taxis. It also pays at convenience stores.
Cash for markets
Traditional markets and street stalls may prefer cash. Withdraw won from ATMs marked "Global" at convenience stores and banks, which take foreign cards.
No tipping
Tipping is not expected in Korea. Prices are as marked, and service is included.
Useful phrases Phrases
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