Seoul Currency Guide 2026
South Korean Won (KRW) · ₩
1,350 KRW = $1 (approx.)
Seoul Travel Guides
Cash is Useful in Seoul
Cards work well but cash is handy for markets and small vendors
Daily Budget Guide
🎒
Budget
₩50,000–80,000 ($37–59) (guesthouse, convenience store meals, subway)
🏨
Mid-Range
₩120,000–200,000 ($89–148) (hotel, restaurant meals, Kakao T taxis)
✨
Luxury
₩400,000+ ($296+) (luxury hotel, omakase dining, private experiences)
ATM Tips for Seoul
Shinhan Bank, KEB Hana, and NH Nonghyup ATMs accept most international cards
IBK (Industrial Bank of Korea) ATMs at post offices are also reliable for foreign cards
7-Eleven ATMs in convenience stores accept international Visa/Mastercard
Korean ATMs typically charge ₩3,000–5,000 per foreign withdrawal — withdraw larger amounts
Card Payment Tips
South Korea is one of Asia's most card-friendly countries — nearly everywhere accepts Visa/Mastercard
T-money card is essential for all public transport — buy at any convenience store or subway station
Kakao Pay and Samsung Pay are dominant QR/NFC payments but require Korean accounts
Traditional markets (Gwangjang, Namdaemun) still prefer cash for small vendors
Currency Exchange Tips
✓ Best method
Incheon Airport's KEB Hana Bank exchange counters offer competitive rates. Myeongdong currency exchange street in Seoul city has good rates. Shinhan Bank and Kakao Bank ATMs work well.
✗ Avoid exchanging at
- ×Airport kiosks outside the main bank counters
- ×Small street exchange shops without visible rate boards
- ×Hotel reception
Tipping in Seoul
Not customary in Korea — tipping is generally not practiced and may cause confusion or awkwardness. Delivery apps include a built-in tip option but it is optional.
Useful Denominations
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency is used in South Korea?
The South Korean Won (KRW, symbol ₩). Note that "Korean won" without the "South" prefix still means KRW for travellers — North Korea's currency is completely separate and non-exchangeable.
Is Seoul expensive to visit?
Seoul is mid-range. Street food and convenience store meals are very affordable (₩3,000–8,000). Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses (₩25,000/night) to luxury hotels. Overall, Seoul is cheaper than Tokyo, Singapore, or Hong Kong.
Do I tip in Korea?
No — tipping is not part of Korean culture and is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. Service staff may be surprised or confused by a tip.
Can I use my credit card everywhere in Seoul?
Mostly yes — Korea is highly card-friendly. Traditional markets and some street food stalls are cash only. Get a T-money card (₩2,500 at convenience stores) for all transit.
Before you go to Seoul
Seoul Packing List
Everything else you need for your Seoul trip