Money & Payments in Korea

Cards are king

Korea is one of the most cashless societies on earth — street food stalls and taxis included. Any Visa or Mastercard works, contactless is universal, and you will rarely need more than a little backup cash for tiny mom-and-pop shops and some market stalls.

WOWPASS for travelers

WOWPASS machines (at Incheon Airport, major subway stations, and convenience stores) convert foreign currency into a prepaid balance that doubles as a T-money transit card. It is the fastest way to land with working payment and transit in one card.

Getting cash

Use Global ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, CU, GS25) or Shinhan/Woori branches — they are the ones configured for foreign cards. Withdraw what you need; you will use less cash than you expect.

Tipping and tax refunds

There is no tipping culture in Korea — rounding up is unusual and sometimes refused. Instead, claim immediate tax refunds: at participating stores (look for the “Tax Free” sign), show your passport at checkout and the 10% VAT comes off on the spot for purchases over ₩15,000.